Student Work
Title
Downtown Lowell
Project Description
Downtown Lowell is underutilized by the diverse populations inhabiting its surrounding neighborhoods. Dutton Street, a marker of Lowell’s urban renewal period, severely limits access from these areas. Scattered social services, unclear pedestrian wayfinding and a train station outside downtown amplify the disconnection. Residents do not see cultural, recreational, or entrepreneurial opportunities in downtown.
Our strategy increases density, diversity, and dynamism in downtown by responding to issues of access and interest. We propose green spaces at the base of each neighborhood, flexible parking bars functioning as gateways to/from surrounding areas, programmed bridges across Dutton Street, architectural icons, and exterior public spaces.