New York City Economic Development Corporation and Department of Transportation Introduce Conceptual Redesign of Fordham Plaza
Design Will Transform Fordham Plaza into a Vibrant, Pedestrian-Friendly Public Space
Yesterday, New York City Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC) and Department of Transportation (DOT) released the conceptual master plan for the redesign of Fordham Plaza . The design, by WXY architecture + urban design, seeks to re-make Fordham Plaza into a vibrant, pedestrian-friendly public space and world class transit hub. The new concept includes a set of specific actions for improving traffic circulation, improving transit access, expanding the amount of plaza space for programming and activating the plaza with new retail uses and amenities.
"The plan outlines a smart vision for transforming Fordham Plaza into the vibrant, pedestrian-friendly transit hub that it should be," said New York City Economic Development Corporation President Seth W. Pinsky. "As this plan moves from concept to reality, we look forward to seeing Fordham Plaza solidify its place as a center of Bronx transit, culture and retail activity."
"Untangling the mobility and access issues around Fordham Plaza is the first step in building a world-class public space and economic engine for the area," said DOT Commissioner Janette Sadik-Khan. "This design creates an inviting, attractive streetscape that meets the needs of the entire corridor."
"The redesign and overhaul of Fordham Plaza will be a great upgrade for one of the busiest sections of my district," said Congressman José E. Serrano. "I look forward to the day when the renovation is a reality so that the tens of thousands of my constituents who know this community crossroads so well at last find it safe to use and enjoy."
"This plan will significantly improve transit riders' access to the twelve bus lines and rail transportation so important to my Bronx constituents while also capitalizing on the over 80,000 pedestrians and potential customers that walk through the area daily by providing entrepreneurial and job opportunities, such as a restaurant and vendor kiosks. This plan not only recognizes the need for a functional public space at this location, it incorporates cutting-edge sustainable design to do so, and I am proud to support it," said Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr.
"This project encompasses the best of the Bronx," said Marlene Cintron, President of the Bronx Overall Economic Development Corporation. "It brings together the concerted efforts of NYCEDC, DOT, elected officials, and community stakeholders to create a public space that will serve the thousands of pedestrians and commuters who come to the area to shop, eat at our great restaurants or attend the universities and schools nearby. To take it over the top there will also be the potential for additional cultural programming and opportunities to underscore the diversity of the Bronx. Bravo!"
"This Fordham Plaza conceptual redesign represents an opportunity to develop a significantly more welcome and attractive public space for pedestrians, while enhancing this important transit plaza by making it a potentially more workable alternative to the existing state of affairs," said Joe Muriana, Associate Vice-President for Government & Urban Affairs at Fordham University. "An improved transit Hub at Fordham Plaza is good for the region, good for the Bronx and good for Fordham."
"The plaza redesign is a win-win for pedestrians, motorists and straphangers alike - by simplifying the road network and reducing areas of conflict, not only is the area more pedestrian-friendly but it also promises to alleviate some of the congestion points along Fordham Road. The result is a greener, more vibrant, less congested, and ultimately safer place to be," said Claire Weisz, principal of WXY architecture + urban design.
Overall, the plan seeks to make Fordham Plaza an iconic public space in the Bronx, an important element of the NYCDOT Plaza program. With twelve bus routes on or near the Plaza, along with the fourth busiest station in the Metro North system, Fordham Plaza is a critical part of the New York City transportation network. The new design will enhance traffic flow throughout the area by designating Third Avenue at Fordham Plaza for bus traffic only and creating a more compact bus turnaround, along with additional nearby road adjustments. By moving the bus turnaround out of the Plaza itself, the new design also creates a contiguous public space which will improve the pedestrian experience and reduce the potential for conflict between pedestrians and buses.
Fordham Road is also one of the busiest shopping corridors in all of New York City. On an average day, over 80,000 pedestrians walk the corridor between Jerome and Webster Avenues. The Plaza redesign will draw these visitors further east and provide amenities for shoppers, residents and workers, potentially including a new greenmarket, café and other vendors. The Plaza amenities will serve a strong need as a market analysis of the area within a one mile radius of Fordham Plaza concluded that retail spending potential could exceed $1.1 billion per year, while current annual retail sales in the area total approximately $439 million. The Plaza would also provide a much needed venue for event programming throughout the year including potential movie screenings, concerts or holiday markets.
In addition to the amenities, the new Plaza concept envisions elements, such as bioswales to mitigate stormwater runoff, solar panels, and a small wind turbine, to ensure that Fordham Plaza will be a model of environmental sustainability and design excellence in keeping with the goals of PlaNYC 2030.
The project has secured initial funding and is moving forward with the design phase.
To view the conceptual master plan, go to www.nycedc.com/fordhamplaza .
To view renderings of the plan, go to Fordham Plaza Press Images .
About NYCEDC
New York City Economic Development Corporation is the City's primary vehicle for promoting economic growth in each of the five boroughs. NYCEDC's mission is to stimulate growth through expansion and redevelopment programs that encourage investment, generate prosperity and strengthen the City's competitive position. NYCEDC serves as an advocate to the business community by building relationships with companies that allow them to take advantage of New York City's many opportunities. Find us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to learn more about NYCEDC projects and initiatives.