Ordinance No. 20460 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Chapter 4 -The Public Realm Circulation Systems and Parks This chapter describes considerations and recommendations for areas within the Walnut Station Specific Area Plan that largely fall within the public realm; streets, bicycle and pedestrian paths, and park, recreation, and open space amenities. As with development pattern and intensity, the emerging vision had specific recommendations about these public realm components and this chapter describes how those emerging vision elements have been addressed. Street Networtk and Design From the emerging vision process described in Chapter 2, it became clear that changing the na- ture of the transportation network in the Walnut Station area could be a key impetus for realizing the desired vision for the area. Franklin Boulevard is a significant focus as it bisects the study area and plays a major role in influencing the character and development of the area. As currently con- figured and designed, it is not a pedestrian friendly street to cross, nor does it safely and comfort- ably accommodate modes of travel other than motor vehicles. The other streets within the plan boundary; Walnut Street, Villard Street, Orchard Street, and Garden Avenue (including a portion of Moss Street) were also evaluated in the context of the overall vision, and improvements to these streets consistent with emerging vision were also recommended. Franklin Boulevard is a major arterial that carries more than 33,000 vehicle trips per day. Traffic volumes are projected to be as high as 40,000 to 45,000 vehicles per day in the year 2025. Frank- lin Boulevard serves as part of the initial EmX corridor. Within the plan area there are both one lane and two lane sections. Franklin Bou- levard also serves as a cor- ridor for accessing regional recreational and cultural fa- cilities including Alton Baker Park, the regional Willamette River shared use path system and Autzen Stadium, all of which are within walking distance of the plan area. However, it can also present a challenge for accessing these facilities. In addition to carrying large volumes of traffic through the area, Franklin Boulevard provides access to many businesses, is the primary surface street and transit connection between downtown Eugene and downtown Springfield, and serves as a major entryway into Eugene and the University of Oregon. Pedestrian and bicycle movements within and across Franklin Boulevard are challenging due to the high volumes of traffic, lack of bicycle lanes, and substandard sidewalks. The existing edges 26