FAIRMONT BELTLINE
Community Enhancement Project West Virginia University Community Design Studio Masters of Landscape Architecture Spring 2012
Introduction
3
Historic Timeline
4
Inventory
5-7
Analysis
8
9-11
Public Meeting
Design Process
12
13
Functional Master Plan
Representational Master Plan
14
Cross-Sections
15
Representation Master Plan - North
Detail Designs
Representational Master Plan - South
Detail Designs
Materials Palette Conclusion References and Sources
Table of Contents
2
COMMUNITY ENHANCEMENT PROJECT
Acknowledgements
City of Fairmont Planning Commission Kathy Wyrosdick, Fairmont City Planner
Acknowledgements
We want to thank the following people for contributing to our project:
Mark Miller, Executive Secretary, Fairmont Planning and Development Department Daniel Eades, WVU Extension Specialist, Community Resources and Economic Development
Rocky DeLorenzo, Principal, West Fairmont Middle School Charles Yuill, Program Chair, Associate Professor and Natural Resource Analysis Center (NRAC) Public Meeting Participants
COMMUNITY ENHANCEMENT PROJECT
8th Street, Fairmont West Virginia
Our project focuses on creating a stronger sense of community, inviting people into the neighborhood through the process of community participation. During the semester, we researched the history, the land, and the people of the Beltline to gain a strong understanding of the area. Following intensive research and several site visits, we began interacting with the local residents and employees of the Beltline. This communication took our understanding of the area to a more personal level, as we began to realize what the people were looking for in their neighborhood.
The goal of our semester studio was to design through the involvement of the community. By doing so, we were able to develop ideas, discuss them with the locals, and take their responses into consideration for the final design. Ultimately, we created a Master Plan for the residents of the Beltline, while aiming to invite surrounding visitors into the neighborhood.
0
2000’
4000’
6000’
The Beltline Area is located just south of downtown Fairmont along the Monongahela River. This area has been developed as a residential neighborhood and an industrial district since Fairmont was established as Middletown in 1820. Our project site consists of the entire Beltline Area from 6th Street to 14th Street.
Introduction
The Beltline Neighborhood rests along the Monongahela River in Fairmont, West Virginia. Central to Fairmont’s history, the area is known for its rich industrial history and culture. Since the late 19th century, the Beltline has provided many local people with jobs and a place to live. Today, the neighborhood is cracking, and our goal this semester is to patch those holes and develop a stronger design for the people of the Beltline.
COMMUNITY ENHANCEMENT PROJECT
BELTLINE AREA CONTEXT
Timeline
1800
1865 : Fairmont State University was established 1868 : Helmick Industry built
1861 : Immigrants from Italiy
1893 : Faith United Methodist Church & St. Paul Methodist Church were built
1927 : Pepperoni Roll was invented at the Country Club Bakery 1938: East West Stadium built 1921 : High Level Bridge was built
1912 : Marion Couty Jail was built
1979 : I – 79 was completed
Renovation in the Downtown Historic District NOW : 1997: Three Rivers Festival Beltline Community 2007: West Side Middle School built Enhancement Project
1991 : Gateway Connector
COMMUNITY ENHANCEMENT PROJECT
1843 : Changed the name to Fairmont
1907 : Monangah Mine Disaster
2012
1820 : Middletown was
FIGURE GROUND
LEGEND
LEGEND Project Site
Project Site
Hard surface
Buildings
Green&Open Spaces
0
500’
1000’
1500’
The green space map shows the contrast of open and green space versus the hard, built surfaces in the Beltline. The hard surfaces such as buildings, parking, roads, and sidewalks are represented by the filled grey spaces. There are more green and open spaces in the eastern area along the river than within the compacted residential areas.
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500’
1000’
1500’
Other surface
This map shows all the building surfaces in the Beltline Area. Two different characters of buildings are seen in this map. In the western area, small squares represent residential houses along the grid lines from the north to the south. In the eastern edge of the Beltline, there are some larger buildings representing the industrial factories and warehouses.
COMMUNITY ENHANCEMENT PROJECT
Inventory
GREEN & OPEN SPACES
LAND USE
LEGEND
LEGEND Project Site
Project Site
Commercial Residential Institution Industories Parking
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500’
1000’
1500’
This 1927 map shows that the layout of this area has maintained its character since 1927. The industrial area has been an iconic element supporting the Beltline throughout Fairmont’s history. Since this neighborhood has remained intact for so many years it is critical that we enhance the area and bring elements into the design to create a stronger sense of community.
0
500’
1000’
1500’
In the Beltline Area, there are residential, retails, business, industries and institutions such as the West Fairmont Middle School. The project area has much potential for enhancement including a design that promotes walkability and mixed-use buildings. Open spaces, some recreational uses, and community uses are missing from the neighborhood and can be implemented in the new design.
COMMUNITY ENHANCEMENT PROJECT
Inventory
HISTORIC DEVELOPMENT
DEMOGRAPHICS
0
44.5
Inventory
PROPERTY STATUSS
18.5 21 30.5
30.5 33.5 58.5 47.8
0
28.5 27.3 27.3 45 29.5 37.5 79.5
54 29.5
0 53 0
45.5
34.5
0
27 44.5
0
59.5
23.5
0
0
LEGEND Project Site
38.5 0
Vacant Lots > 5
LEGEND Project Site
45
0 (no residents)
49.5 37.5
Ownership > Rentals
0 - 24.5
24.5
24.5 - 34.5
Ownership < Rentals
38.5
0
34.5 - 47.8 47.8 - 59.5
0
500’
1000’
1500’
2000 Census Block Data
The map describes ownership vs. rental properties, and blocks with numerous vacant lots. The rentals are north central to our area, whereas the dominant ownership properties are in the southern part of the project area. Two blocks are identified as having more than five vacant lots, which both border 8th Street. These vacant lots become a prime opportunity for infill development. The ownerships are predominantly business owners and single family homes, whereas the rentals are typically duplexes.
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500’
1000’
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2000 Census Block Data
59.5 - 79.5
This map portrays the average age of the residents living in each individual census block. The average on Virginia Avenue appears to be lower than that of Gaston Avenue, most likely as a result of the number of rental properties on Virginia Avenue. From the top of the project area to the bottom, there is a clear range of age, including young adults to elderly. In designing the neighborhood, these age groups mark different necessities that will need to be considered. Spaces that appeal to all ages are critical here.
COMMUNITY ENHANCEMENT PROJECT
34.5
58.5
PATHS
LEGEND
LEGEND
Project Site
Project Site
Roads
Commercial
Sidewalks
Mixed Residential
Non-Paved-Paths
School Recreational
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500’
1000’
1500’
This zoning map comes from the Zoning Ordinance of the City of Fairmont. You can see that there are mainly two different types of zones along the longitudinal streets, such as commercial and mixed residential. School and Recreational area are in the center of Beltline area. In the mixed residentioanl area, the residential area and the industorial area area separated. The industrial area prevents people from accessing the river.
0
500’
1000’
1500’
This map shows paths such as roads, sidewalks, and non-pavedpaths. Most paths are aligned with the grid pattern, and the main three longitudinal streets (Fairmont Avenue, Gaston Avenue, Virginia Avenue) have more traffic flow than horizontal streets. Horizontal streets are used more by trucks and residents and become dead ends towards the industrial area.
COMMUNITY ENHANCEMENT PROJECT
Inventory
ZONING
Analysis
Av e Vir gin ia
s to
ick lm St
Accessible to the Riverside
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11
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Av e
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Accessible to the Riverside
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rla be am
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250’
LEGEND
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Wood Area
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Rd rly Be
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Commercial Developable Space Improvable Housing
aA ve
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Valuable Housing quality Traffic Congestion
Vir g
SCALE : 1” = 250’
13
500’
Accessible to the Riverside 1000’
N
NTS
Noise Steep
Analysis
Gaston Avenue: The street runs north-south from 1st street to 14th street, with housing on both west side and east side. Aquarium lounge, Fairmont Federal Credit Union is some of the businesses on Gaston Avenue. The infrastructure of the street is in fair condition, with sidewalks on either side of the street. The street is 50Feet wide. The Street is occasionally used by motorists as a shortcut to avoid Fairmont Avenue. Virginia Avenue: The street runs north-south from 1st street to 14th street. The landuse is mixed used with retail, commercial and residential. The traffic on Virginia Avenue is relatively higher than Gaston Avenue parallel to it. It has many Businesses such as Spadafore Barbering and Styling, Marian County Human Society. The East West Stadium, the West Fairmont Middle School is on the Virginia Avenue. Alleyways: These are roads which runs north-south in between the blocks as, access to the property. There are few houses which has entrance access from the alley. It is used to have access to garages, parking of cars and access to gardens.
in
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Av e
12
Fairmont Avenue: The main street or the highway which is the artery connecting the beltline area to downtown in the north and airport in the south. There are numerous businesses on the street such as Kime Florists, Burger king, Mc.Donalds, banks, Era Pitrolo and Williams Real Estate, Go Mart, Clip and Care Pet Boutique, Tuscan Sun Spa and Salon, Learning Land Day care and Preschool, Jack and Jill Mensware Long John Silver;s Poky Dot, CVS pharmacy, Keyland Pawn Brokers, Shop and Save etc., The street is maintained by the State, the traffic moves at 50 or 60 miles an hour.
Minor Avenue : The street runs north-south from 9th Street to 14th Street. The street is 60’wide, and is the main access road to the industries on the east side of the road. The proposed railtrail is to run along the Minor Avenue.
COMMUNITY ENHANCEMENT PROJECT
aA ve Vir gin i
Fa irm on tA Al ve ley Wa ys Ga sto nA ve
nA ve
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He
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sto
Open spaces : The Beltline Area has potential for enhancement on various levels. There are empty plots, freeways on the streets and alleys, the riverside wooded area, open areas on the school property. The availablity of partnership owned or managed properties, with plots and vacant garden spaces. These are some of the areas which are available for rehabilitation.
St
Ga 9th
West Fairmont Middle School: The West Fairmont middle School has around 600 pupils. About 5 % of the students walk to the School or dropped off by family members, and the rest commute on the school bus system. The infrastructure for the school provides few activities for the community members. The basket ball court and other recreational amenities are for the School members only. The traffic is heavy in the morning 7 am to 8am and in the afternoon 3pm to 4pm, at the start and closing time of the school. The East West Stadium : The East West Stadium facility includes a football/soccer/lacrosse field, track, and a swimming pool. The Stadium has seating capacity for 6000 spectators. Community members other than sports pupils, use the premises for morning and evening walks. The parking is available on Virginia Avenue and Minor Avenue, on game days the parking is extended north upto the 10th street. The Stadium in the beltline is a big assest, it is an attraction.
St
Av e
Businesses : The Beltline area has distinctly two sets of Businessess, those on Faimont Avenue which cater to larger area and the ones virginia and Gaston Avenue catering to the Beltline area. There is still a breath of neighbourhood community withheld by family run businesses over generations. The 8th Street Confectionary is one of them. The Leezer Auto Repair which is currently closed was one of them. Aquarium Lounge, Edees Bakery, Spadafore Barbaring and Styling are some of the local speciality.
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Fa irm o
8th
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The depreciating population of Fairmont dropping a third in the last decade, has affected the Beltline Area. The property values dropping, the ownership of the houses has moved from individual owners to tenants, HUD, neighborhood partnership. The small businesses owned by generations after generations are closing one after another. The infrastructure is failing to keep up with the needs of the people.
7th
tA ve
The area under analysis encompasses 25 blocks, with Fairmont Avenue on the west side, 6th street on the north side, the river on the east and the south side. The land use is mixed with Commercial, Industrial, Housing and Institutions. The Beltline Area of Fairmont has a history of over 100 years. The Marion County Historic Museum has listed some of the houses in the Beltline Area as historic houses. The Beltline Area developed has suburb couple miles away from the downtown Fairmont, with few industries, housing for the working class community. Duplex row housing on Gaston Avenue and Virginia Avenue. Small businesses and institutions catering to the community.
6th
Fa irm on
Summary
Helmick and other warehouses Helmick: The Helmick corporation is one of the industries situated in the Beltline area. The property extends from 8th street on the northside to the 10th street and covers 2 blocks. The block between the 9th street and the 10th street houses the administrative building along with the factory in use. The block between the the 8th street and 9th street houses factory buildings which are not in use. Other: There are industries and warehouses: Valley Distributing, Quality Packing and Loading Services, Farimont Public Services, Marion County School bus shed, on the east side of the beltline area on the Minor Avenue. These industries and warehouses generate traffic, on the 10th and the 12th street. They are tucked away from the housing and local businessess.
March 12, 2012
Midway through the semester and after gathering much of our background information, we held a public meeting. Here we we invited neighborhood residents, local business owners, and other interested parties. Here we displayed our inventory and analysis posters, and utilized the intimate setting to create work spaces with the attendees. Maps on the tables identified desirable locations for enhancement, and example images illustrated possibilities for the areas (maps to follow on pages 12-13).
Public Meeting
8th Street, Fairmont
From our suggestions, they liked the ideas of: creating a community garden, providing more outdoor recreation, improving the streets and sidewalks, and developing the Beltline Loop
There were several issues we learned from the residents that we then needed to address in our design. These included: The excess garbage on properties The concerns between rental properties and ownership properties A strong lack of community interaction A need for commercial space Address the vacant and abandoned lots, especially the Helmick Property
Reduce traffic congestion
COMMUNITY ENHANCEMENT PROJECT
After this event, we came home with a list of feedback from the locals.
BELTLINE STREETSCAPE - RIVER TRAIL
Virginia Ave
Existing
Possibilities
Do wn to
wn
Possibilities
This street can be narrow to provide larger sidewalks to enhance walkability. Brick pavements and traditional style lighting can be installed to restore the history on this part of the road. These will enhance the walkability and bring identity, enhancing the characteristics of Beltline area.
Providing pedestrian and bike sharing trails in the Alley ways with berry bushes creates interaction between the user and the pathways. Brick pavement will improve safety for pedestrians and bikers. Walking through the small alley will bring the sense of the community and enhance communication between neighbors.
Sidewalks with Benches Existing
River Side Trail
Existing
Possibilities
A walking pathway extending over a mile is an easy getaway from the everyday routine. The trail is designed to be an extension of the rail trail ending at Rivesville in the north. Also a summer loop extension of the beltline loop, which is selfsufficient encircling 2.5 miles.
Widening the sidewalks and installing some benches creating open spaces for people to gather. Sidewalks to be winding with more organic shapes, flowers, trees, and water bodies can bring aesthetic and joyous moments for the members in the community.
Minor Ave
Industrial Walking Museum
Multi-use space with Parking
Existing
Possibilities
Possibilities
Existing
Riv
er
Tra i
l
Possibilities
Along the Beltline trail loop, we will have some parking and bike racks. These will provide convenient access to the trail, parks, and everywhere in the neighborhood. It will encourage people to visit Beltline area for recreation activities.
Gateway
Existing
The natural water feature provides opportunities for water sports, Kayaking, Tubing, Jet Ski etc., an attraction such as this will bring people from different destinations. The proximity of the river side, in walking distance, can facilitate a quick stop in busy schedules of working people.
Possibilities
Shelters on the river trail
Multi-use space with Parking
Existing
Possibilities
Monangah The gateway acts as beginning or an opening, spaces are defined to create a story, the story always has beginning, this definition creates identity for the place. The Beltline loop, is one such thing, it is envisioned to create an identity and tell a story. The identity for the people who have lived here, worked here, and for the people who are living here now. The trail loop is to be created to involve each and every member of the community, a place for children to play, to learn, for adults to walk, for pets to be let loose, an entertaining educating and binding loop. The gateway to the loop, is an element to breathe life to the story.
N
Tiny structures, multiple uses provide places of interest, landmarks, on the trail, which can develop its own stories and etch memories of the place, in particular the beltline neighborhood.
COMMUNITY ENHANCEMENT PROJECT
Water Sports
ne
Possibilities
Be
Existing
ltli
Parking / Bike Racks
Is to create a sheltered walkway which can facilitate the viewer to disengage from the process of walking and engage in learning the history of Coal and Window-Glass museum of the Beltline area. The simplicity of recurring structures by itself be a landmark feature adding a sparkle to the existing mandane envrionment. The connection on the museum could act as easy getaway from the 2.5 miles loop, connecting the River trail to Minor Avenue.
Lo
This 60â&#x20AC;&#x2122; wide street can be redeveloped into more enjoyable path for walking and biking. To incorporate pedestrian path and bike lane separated with trees, flowers, benches, and bike racks will be installed along the path.
op
Be
ltli
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Lo
op
Existing
Possibilities
Public Meeting
Alley
Existing
Existing
Possibilities
BELTLINE INFILL OPPORTUNITIES
as as
Pocket Playground Existing
The Helmick Property can be an opportunity for housing growth in the neighborhood. The neighborhoods can be focused on the pedestrian making it enjoyable for residents to use alternate transportation .
Possibilities
A natural playground that creates a learning environment for kids based on sustainability, and encouraging outdoor play.
Community Gardens Existing
Possibilities
A mixed use-neighborhood provides housing with front porches in response to the open space.
Public Meeting
Helmick: Mixed-Use
Gardening opportunities for the residents of the Beltline, which encourages ecological education for all ages. The gardens provide fresh produce and plants, alleviating climate change inside the neighborhood.
The Helmick Property can also provide a mix of commercial and retail space for visitors and local residents, while also increasing transportation options, such as biking and walking.
Commercial and Retail Existing
Greenhouses will give students and community members the chance to garden year round.
Possibilities
Community Open Space Existing
Possibilities
An outdoor structure for multi-functioning uses such as farmerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s market, outdoor school activities, fundraising events, or even community meetings/gatherings.
This is an example of an enhanced streetscape which takes advantage of the view of the Monongahela River. To the right, one enters the commerical and retail space which is a pedestrian zone. Flexible open space with permeable pavers allow multiple uses like parking and outdoor activities. The pavers permit movement of water and air around the area. This creates more parking for the East West Stadium.
Housing Existing
The Gateway Park
Possibilities
Existing
Possibilities
A courtyard housing design is centered around a shared outdoor open space or garden. This will give Minor Avenue a more inviting character for residents and visitors.
The single-family housing is strategically placed near the Beltline Loop, the Gateway Park, the East West Stadium and potential commerical space. This location enhances the quality of life for the residents.
N
A protected area inside the Beltline that encourages outdoor recreation, and serves the purpose of an access to the Beltline Loop. Poster prepared by: Jing Chu, Claire Jeran, & Juliana Lloreda
COMMUNITY ENHANCEMENT PROJECT
A commercial and retail area can be a destination for the Beltline Loop and provides businesses for the nearby residents. Residents have the benefit of being able to walk short distances to shop and recreate.
Bad condition of Street and Sidewalk
SOLUTIONS
DESIGN
Improve Streetscape
Streetscape on Virginia & Gaston Ave.
Traffic Congestion Rail Trail (Loop & Riverside)
Lack of Recreation opportunity
Create Recreation Space and Opportunities Park, Open Spaces
Garbage Problem
Rental vs. Ownership
Create Community Spaces
Lack of Community Involvement
Vacant and Abandoned Lots Lack of Commercial Space
Community Garden
Helmick District
Create Commercial Spaces
Beltline Market Place
On the left are issues which came as a result of the public meeting. We took those issues, and came up with four solutions to address the problems at hand. Improve the quality and environment of streets and sidewalks Create recreation space and outdoor opportunities Create community spaces for interaction and gathering Create commercial space Each of these four solutions was implemented into a specific design within the Beltline Area. These designs will be fully explained and located with the description of the following Master Plan. After going through the design process, we created our concept statement for the Beltline Community Enhancement Project.
Concept Statement It is an initiative to build a neighborhood embracing “Pride, Joy and Commerce”. Develop a sense of Pride for the people who call the neighborhood home. Bring Joy to the people visiting the stadium, the school, the trail and other amenities. Spark exuberance in Commerce benefitting the entire community. Together let us work to bring “Pride, Joy and Commerce to Fairmont, WV”.
COMMUNITY ENHANCEMENT PROJECT
ISSUES
Design Process
Design Process Chart
Possibilities
Beltline Loop Possibilities
Possibilities
Possibilities
Beltline Market Place
Possibilities
Housing
10t h
St
t
hS
12t
8th St
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0’
120’
240’
Scale : 1” = 120’
in
720’
wn to
N
NTS
Possibilities
Possibilities
Possibilities
Possibilities
Possibilities
Possibilities
The gateway acts as a beginning or an opening, spaces are defined to create a story, the story always has beginning; this definition creates identity for the place. The Beltline Loop, is one such thing, it is envisioned to create an identity and tell a story. The identity for the people who have lived here, worked here, and for the people who are living here now. The trail loop is created to involve each and every member of the community, a place for children to play, to learn, for adults to walk, for pets to be let loose, an entertaining educating and binding loop. The gateway to the loop, is an element to breathe life to the story.
Existing
Gateway Park
The open lot adjacent to the Middle School along Minor Avenue has great potential to enhance the street while linking to the rest of the Beltline Market Place. The space will be bordered with commercial and retail buildings which will appeal to users of the Beltline Loop, neighborhood residents, as well as middle school students. The buildings face three outdoor overhead structures which provide the neighboring community garden with a venue for a farmers market, students with an outdoor space for events and activities, and a place for neighborhood events to be held. The new Beltline Market Place can become a destination for locals and visitors alike.
Existing
Beltline Market Place
The trail along the river provides beautiful natural views as well as opportunities for water sports such as fishing, kayaking, tubing, jet skiing, etc. Shelters, tiny structures, and visual elements along the trail will provide places of interest and landmarks which can develop into stories and memories of the place, in particular the Beltline neighborhood.
Existing
River Trail
A sheltered walkway can facilitate the viewer to disengage from the process of walking and engage in learning the history of Coal and Window-Glass museum of the Beltline area. The simplicity of recurring structures by itself be a landmark feature adding a sparkle to the existing mandane envrionment. The connection on the museum could act as easy getaway from the 2.5 miles loop, connecting the River trail to Minor Avenue.
Existing
Industrial Walking Museum
Gardening opportunities for the residents of the Beltline and students at West Fairmont Middle School, which enhance the communication between people. It will also encourages ecological education for all ages. The gardens provide fresh produce and plants, alleviating climate change inside the neighborhood.
Existing
Beltline Community Garden
The Helmick Property can be an opportunity for residential, commercial, retail, indoor and outdoor recreational spaces, and an Arts Center. The mixed-use area not only provides residential and commercial space for visitors and local residents, but also incorporates new transportation options, such as biking and walking. The area will connect to the Beltline Loop in two different places, which brings people to the site to recreate, shop and relax during their trail adventure.
Existing
Helmick District
Functional Master Plan
480’
er iv la R he ga n no Mo
COMMUNITY ENHANCEMENT PROJECT
The single-family housing is strategically placed near the Beltline Loop, the Gateway Park, the East West Stadium and The Beltline Market Place. This location enhances the quality of life for the residents.
Existing
Monongah
A central place to gather for the residents of the Beltline, as well as the visitors from all around. The Beltline Market Place offers an indoor and outdoor shopping mall, a wide variety of restaurants and shops, a movie theatre, spaces for kids and grow ups, and of course parking. This design, which is integrated with nature by providing green roofs and great views to the river and surrounding wildlife.
Existing
Providing pedestrian and bike sharing trails in the alley ways with berry bushes creates interaction between the user and the pathways. Walking through the small alley will bring a sense of the community and enhance communication between neighbors.
Existing
Alley
A walking pathway extending over a mile is an easy getaway from the everyday routine. The trail is designed to be an extension of the rail trail ending at Rivesville in the north. Also a summer loop extension of the beltline loop, which is self-sufficient encircling 2.5 miles.
Existing
Virginia Avenue and Gaston Avenue can be narrow to provide larger sidewalks to enhance walkability. Brick pavements and traditional style lighting can be installed to restore the history on this part of the road white bringing an identity and enhancing the characteristics of Beltline area. Benches along the sidewalk will be gathering places for the neighborhood, and it will enhance communication between people.
Existing
Streetscape on Virginia & Gaston Ave
l
Together let us work to bring “Pride, Joy and Commerce to Fairmont, WV”.
It is an initiative to build a neighborhood embracing “Pride, Joy and Commerce”. Develop a sense of Pride for the people who call the neighborhood home. Bring Joy to the people visiting the stadium, the school, the trail and other amenities. Spark exuberance in Commerce benefitting the entire community.
Lo
op tlin e Be
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CONCEPT
e lin Be lt
Functional Master Plan
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WEST VIRGINIA UNIVERSITY COMMUNITY DESIGN STUDIO
p
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Av e on Ga st
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Do ia A ve Vir g
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Av e
FAIRMONT BELTLINE COMMUNITY ENHANCEMENT PROJECT
ver Tr
COMMUNITY ENHANCEMENT PROJECT
NTS
Representational Master Plan
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Sections
Section A-A’ Monongahela River to Fairmont Ave.
0’
40’
80’
120’
Scale 1”=40’
Section B-B’ Beltline Alleyway from 8th St. to 12th St.
COMMUNITY ENHANCEMENT PROJECT
0’
40’
80’
120’
Scale 1”=40’
COMMUNITY ENHANCEMENT PROJECT
Section D-D’ 12th St. from Monongahela River to Virginia Ave.
Sections
Section C-C’ Minor Ave.
0’
40’
Scale 1”=40’
80’
120’
J. Chu, A. Gowda, A. Hosogaki, C. Jeran, and J. Lloreda
WEST VIRGINIA UNIVERSITY COMMUNITY DESIGN STUDIO
Benches
Fountain
On-Street Parking
Sidewalks
Sidewalkss
Bike Racks
N
Small Parking Lot
0’
50’
100’
Scale : 1” = 50’
C Covered Waiting Area
Path
Outdoor Seating Area
Open Lawn
Bike Rack
Annual and Perennial Beds
Bioswale, Rain Garden, & Pond
Vegetable Gardens
Alternate Trail Connection
200’
On-Street Parking for Housing
Beach Restaurants & Volleyball Shops with Indoor Seating and Outdoor Terraces
Housing
Shed for Gardeners
Picnic Tables
Outdoor Oven
COMMUNITY ENHANCEMENT PROJECT
Bike and Walking Paths
Berry Bushes
Tensile Shade Structures
Bioswale e
Tree Planters and Parking
Restaurants & Shops with Indoor Seating and Outdoor Terraces
Tree Planters and Parking
Restaurants & Shops with Indoor Seating and Outdoor Terraces
Existing buildings converted into Art Center
Playground Gazebo
Helmick District
Beltline Community Garden
Streetscape Treatments
Beltline Loop Alleyway Treatments
Site Intersection Delineations
N
NTS
Asphalt Roads Permeable Beltline Loop Beltline River Trail
Brick Paving Shrubs
Permeable Grass Pavers
Deciduous Street Tree Evergreen Tree
LEGEND:
Access Point to River Trail for Outdoor Recreation
River Trail
North Master Plan
300’
Beltline Trail Access
Bike Rack
Parking Lots with Permeable Pavers
Tensile Shade Converted existing Structures building into Recreation Center with partial green roof
Detailed Representational Master Plan - North
Attached Single-family Housing Rear Parking Close Access to Beltline Loop Faces the Gateway Park
PROGRAM:
FAIRMONT BELTLINE COMMUNITY ENHANCEMENT PROJECT
Possibilities
Possibilities
Beltline Loop/River Trail
Rail Trail
PROGRAM: Biking and Walking Paths Destination for Greater Fairmont Active and Passive Recreation Links to Beltline Market Place and Helmick District Alley: Biking and Walking Paths Connection to the Beltline Loop Beltline Berry Patches River Trail: Water Recreation Access Shelter Space Walking and Biking Trails River Outlooks
Possibilities
Industrial Walkway: Outdoor Historic Education Walking Destinations along Beltline Loop Visual Interest for Minor Avenue
The existing Rail Trail in Fairmont runs through the city, disconnected from the Monongahela River Trail at Rivesville in the north, and West Fork Trail at Monongah in the south. The trail runs through Minor Avenue in the Beltline Area. The east leg of the Beltline Avenue is the Minor Avenue trail which connects the Helmick District, the Middle School, Community Garden, Beltline Market Place, and Gateway Park to the neighborhood. The alley between Gaston Avenue, and Virginia is the west leg of the Beltline loop. Creating interest such as berry patches, a tot lot for children, basketball hoops for teens, and benches for elderly can act as a neighborhood gathering lane. The alleyway can potentially be a spine connecting the Beltline Area to downtown. Minor Avenue and Alleyway are connected with 14th street and 8th street to complete the loop. This allows a stretch of 2.1 miles, which can also act as an outdoor training loop for the athletes using the stadium. The Rivertrail is an extension of the Beltline Loop to access the facilities by the river. There are connections through the 14th St., Gateway Park, 9th St., and the Helmick District. The River Trail is also a visitor attraction during summer for hiking, biking, kayak rental, and fishing, etc.
Alley River Trail Industrial Walkway
COMMUNITY ENHANCEMENT PROJECT
One of the solutions to traffic congestion is to increase biking and walking to neighborhood facilities. In the Beltline Area, the proposed master plan has several new developments beneficial for the community. The Beltline Loop and River Trail is designed to tie together the existing and new developments to the neighborhood using pedestrian and cycling pathways.
Existing
on Virginia & Gaston
Paved Sidewalks Bioswales or Rain Garden Vegetated Buffers Street Lighting Trash Recepticals Outdoor Seating On-Street Parking
Streetscape
PROGRAM:
Streetscape redevelopment will enhance walkablilitiy, safety, aesthetics, and characteristics in the Beltline Area. Roads will be narrowed and sidewalks will be widened to slow down traffic. It will give enough space for vegetation buffers with trees, and also benches. The brick pavement underneath the asphalt will be restored, and also lighting and street furniture will be installed to create a historic industrial landscape of the Beltline Area. Community benches placed along the street will create more opportunities for people to gather and enhance communication in the neighborhood.
Possibilities
On-Street Parking Vegetated Buffers
Section A- A’: Gaston Avenue
Sidewalks and surface paking zone will be brick pavement to enhance the characteristics in Beltine. Winding sidewalks with vegetation will change the landscape in Beltline to be more organic.
Sidewalks Fountain
COMMUNITY ENHANCEMENT PROJECT
Community Benches Site Intersection Delineation
Section B- B’: Virginia Avenue
Beautiful and comfortable streets will bring people outside more, and community bench places will be resting and gathering places for people. It will enhance people’s interaction.
0’
100’
200’
300’
Restaurants & Shops Beach Alternate Trail Converted existing Tensile Shade with Indoor Seating and Volleyball Connection building into Structures Outdoor Terraces Recreation Center with partial green roof
Gazebo
Community Destination for Beltline Residents Single-family Housing Indoor and Outdoor Recreation Commercial Space Arts Center Parking Beltline Loop Access
The Helmick District offers an Possibilities opportunity for residential, retail, indoor and outdoor recreational spaces, and an arts center. The mixeduse Helmick District not only provides space for visitors and local residents, but also incorporates new transportation options, such as biking and walking. New housing will bring property owners to the Beltline Area, creating a demand for restaurants, stores, and other entertainment venues. Houses with be single-family housing with on street-parking and rear green space. The residential area is next to the Beltline Trail access which goes through the woodland for a natural afternoon adventure.The retail component could include cafés, and an ice cream shop, which add to the city’s tax base. The parking will help control traffic and create a pedestrian friendly format. Some of buildings will be recycled as an indoor recreation center and arts center, which can develop memories for the place, in particular the Beltline neighborhood. And the access to the Beltline Loop will brings more people to recreate, shop and relax during their trail adventure.
Existing buildings converted into Art Center
Parking Lots with Permeable Pavers
Restaurants & Shops with Indoor Seating and Outdoor Terraces
Bike Rack Beltline Trail Access
A’
Tree Planters and Parking Bioswale Tensile Shade Structures
Housing
Bike Racks
A
Sidewalks
On-Street Parking for Housing
0’
100’
200’
Section A-A’
Helmick District
Exisiting
Woodland
Possibilities
Woodland
New Housing
...
74’
Dimensions
Helmick Avenue (New) 32’
Helmick District
Playground
New Housing 78’
New Commercial 48’
Industrial Avenue (New) 36’
Exisiting Housing
Alley
34’
Exisiting Housing
Alley
34’
49’
24’
300’
COMMUNITY ENHANCEMENT PROJECT
Existing
PROGRAM:
Access to River Trail
Rear-Parking
Single Family (3 Stories)
Housing
Roof Gardenss
Restaurants & Shops d with Indoor Seating and Outdoor Terraces
Grass Mounds and Recycled Tire Flower Planters
On-Street Parking
Pedestrian Refuge
N
Park Access Road with On-Street Parking
Gateway Park
River Trail
Parking Exit
Parking Entrance
Bike Racks
Brick Pathways
Rest Area for the Beltline Loop with benches and shade
Shade Tree Allee
0’
50’
100’
Scale : 1” = 50’
Fishing Deck
200’
Kayak Loading Dock
Park Access Road with On-Street Parking
Amphitheater overlooking the River A
Memorial Garden Plaque
Walking Paths
Six Picnic Table Shelters
Overpass Connector Bridges
Intensive Green Roof with concrete and vegetation for public access
Movie Theater with Green Roof (2nd and 3rd Floor)
N
Resting Shelters along River Trail
NTS
Level Parking (Ground Floor)
Restaurants, Shops, and Kid Craft Center (2nd and 3rd Floor)
Rooftop Terraces with Tables for River Overlook Access
Shops on Ground Level
Permeable Grass Pavers Brick Paving Asphalt Roads Permeable Beltline Loop
Deciduous Street Evergreen Tree Shrubs Beltline River Trail
LEGEND:
Grass Mounds and Recycled Tire Flower Planters
Restaurants & Shops with Indoor Seating and Outdoor Terraces
Outdoor Patio with Tables
Buffer Access from Parking Area
Vegetated Shrub Buffers
Permeable Paver Parking
Cafes, Office Space, Retail Space
Buffer Breaks for Emergency and Utility Access
V Vehicle Access to Parking
Seating Areas
Various Stopping Points along Minor Avenue to commemorate: Fairmont Box Company Fairmont Window Glass Company Fairmont Mining Machinery Monongah Glass Company Standard Oil Company
Industrial Walkway
South Master Plan
300’
Tree Planters
Parking Lot Access
Permeable Grass Pavers
Sidewalks
Overhead Market Structures
Beltline Market Place
Beltline Market Place
COMMUNITY ENHANCEMENT PROJECT
Designated Loop Cross Walks
Bike and Walking Paths
Berry Bushes
Beltline Loop Alleyway Treatments
Detailed Representational Master Plan - South
J. Chu, A. Gowda, A. Hosogaki, C. Jeran, and J. Lloreda
WEST VIRGINIA UNIVERSITY COMMUNITY DESIGN STUDIO
FAIRMONT BELTLINE COMMUNITY ENHANCEMENT PROJECT
Small Parking Lot Outdoor Oven A Picnic Tables
Existing
Shed for Gardeners Vegetable Gardens Bioswale Rain Garden, & Pond Annual and Perennial Beds
Possibilities
Bike Rack Open Lawn Outdoor Seating Area Path
A’ 0’
100’
200’
Covered Waiting Area
300’
Section A-A’
Exisiting Possibilities Dimensions
School Space
10th Street
School Building
10th Street
Picnic Area
Garden Beds
Flower Path, Bioswale, Pond
Open Lawn
Outdoor Seating
Indoor Seating
School Building
44’
42’
24’
56’
43’
59’
36’
56’
COMMUNITY ENHANCEMENT PROJECT
Gardening Beds Outdoor Storage Work Space Seating for Students Picnic Areas Study Space School and Community Events Fall Festival
Beltline Community Garden
In the Middle school property along Minor Ave, we will have a community garden where people gather together and enjoy gardening or picnicking. We also create a place for students to hang out or to use for school activities. So, this site will enhance communication between the neighborhood and middle school students who are from other areas in Fairmont. These two zones are connected by open grass and paths with beautiful flowers and shades trees. We will also have bioswales and a constructed wetland to address the stormwater issue.
PROGRAM:
Resting Area for Beltline Loop Outdoor Market Structures for School and Community Small Restaurants Commercial Space Outdoor Seating Areas Parking
Shade Tree Allee
This vacant lot is one of the three properties named part of the Beltline Market Place. The lot is located along Minor Avenue behind the Middle School and next to the Public Works building to the north, and the Board of Education Facilities to the south. For this area, we wanted to create a destination for people using the Beltline Loop, for people attending an event at the East West Stadium or school, for the Beltline neighborhood, and the greater Fairmont area.
Cafes, Office Space, Retail Space
Bike Racks Brick Pathways
Buffer Breaks for Emergency and Utility Access
Overhead Market Structures Rest Area for the Beltline Loop with benches and shade Parking Entrance
The front of the site serves as a resting area for Beltline Loop users where there are benches, bike racks and shade trees. In the center of the lot are three outdoor market structures which can be used by the school and community for a small farmers market, school fundraisers, and other community events. The building space consists of a mix of retail and commercial spaces. Small commercial businesses, retail stores, such as a convenient store and sporting goods store, small cafes and restaurants will appeal to the neighborhood and Beltline Loops users. Parking is located at the rear of the site with ample accesses into the central gathering area.
Existing
Buffer Access from Parking Area
Possibilities
Seating Areas Outdoor Patio with Tables Permeable Paver 0’
100’
200’
300’
Vegetated Shrub Buffers
Beltline Market Place - North
Parking Exit
COMMUNITY ENHANCEMENT PROJECT
PROGRAM:
Existing
On-Street Parking
Indoor and Outdoor Cafes Markets Commercial Space Movie Theater Green Roofs River Overlook Area Parking
Grass Mounds and Recycled Tire Flower Planters Restaurants & Shops with Indoor Seating and Outdoor Terraces
A’
Roof Gardens Sidewalks Permeable Grass Pavers Parking Lot Access Tree Planters
Possibilities
A Restaurants & Shops with Indoor Seating and Outdoor Terraces
Beltline Market Place - South
Pedestrian Refuge
Roof Gardens Movie Theater with Green Roof (2nd and 3rd Floor) Intensive Green Roof with concrete and vegetation for public access Overpass Connector Bridges
Shops on Ground Level Rooftop Terraces with Tables for River Overlook Access Restaurants, Shops, and Kid Craft Center (2nd and 3rd Floor)
0’
100’
200’
Section A-A’
300’
Level Parking (Ground Floor)
COMMUNITY ENHANCEMENT PROJECT
PROGRAM:
Outdoor Picnic Shelters Amphitheater Interactive Memorial Garden Plaques Access to the Beltline Loop and Rail Trail Passive Outdoor Space Concession Stand Parking The Gateway Park acts as a beginning or an opening to the Beltline Area urban story. It is envisioned to create an identity and tell a story. The identity for the people who have lived here, worked here, and for the people who are living here now. It is a place to commemorate the events of Fairmont pertaining to people of this place. Physically it connects the Beltline Loop and the River Trail together. The park with its amphitheater, picnic tables and walking pathways, can offer platform for community activities: places to gather, share a smile, bask in the sun and dance in the rain.
Park Access Road with On-Street Parking Six Picnic Table Shelters Walking Paths Memorial Garden Plaque
Gateway Park
PROGRAM:
Amphitheater overlooking the River Park Access Road with On-Street Parking
0’
Possibilities
100’
200’
300’
COMMUNITY ENHANCEMENT PROJECT
Existing
Materials Rail Trail Beltline Loop/River Trail
Streetscape on Virginia & Gaston
Helmick District
COMMUNITY ENHANCEMENT PROJECT
Common Materials
Materials
Beltline Community Garden
COMMUNITY ENHANCEMENT PROJECT
Beltline Market Place - North
Beltline Market Place - South
Gateway Park
Conclusion COMMUNITY ENHANCEMENT PROJECT
The Beltline Community Enhancement Project is the gateway to creating a stronger community and overall lifestyle for the residents in Fairmont, West Virginia. We hope our designs are used as a stepping stone for the city in making gradual enhancements for the neighborhood. The concept of community design and community participation has been a valuable component to our design process, and we hope this interaction continues with the future development in the Beltline Area.
Sanborn Maps, 1902-1927 Historic Aerial Images, 1938, 1953
References and Sources
The following references and sources were used as a part of our research process:
Interview Data, local residents and business owners in the Beltline Area Precedent Master Plans, designed by Pashek Associates and Alpha Associates, Inc.
COMMUNITY ENHANCEMENT PROJECT
Marion County, WV GIS Data: http://wvgis.wvu.edu/data/data.php