COURTHOUSE SQUARE IMPROVEMENTS

PROJECT: DOWNTOWN STREET IMPROVEMENTS

Complementing the improvements to the Washington Street Corridor as previously described, improvements are suggested to rest of the streets and buildings surrounding the courthouse square—Jackson Street, Main Street, and Clinton Street. These improvements are intended to garner public and private interest in the downtown, improve the downtown’s aesthetic, make it more functional, and prepare the buildings and empty spaces for redevelopment and infill.

Improvements to these three downtown streets are all fairly similar. They include the narrowing of the roadway to improve walkability and increase pedestrian friendliness. Substantial sidewalks will remain as is. Planters will be installed between the sidewalks and angled parking to serve as a buffer. The turn lanes would then be removed and driving lanes narrowed. Lastly, bumpouts would be added at intersections and midblock pedestrian crossings. Trees would be incorporated into the bumpouts to create a comfortable pedestrian atmosphere while not interfering with storefronts. The street would also be fitted with new site furnishings, streets lights at a pedestrian scale, and wayfinding signage if needed.

With the implementation of these suggested improvements and addition of pedestrian amenities, existing buildings will become attractive for new investment and for use as downtown housing.

Downtown Street Improvements Cost Opinion

First Steps:

• Begin discussions with surrounding property owners about goals and a vision for downtown Frankfort and garner public support.

• Commission design professionals to assist in public space design.

• Develop a schematic design with accurate project costs.

• Raise funds.

• Proceed with construction documents.

• Construct street improvements.

• Begin attracting more downtown businesses and residents.

Clinton Street

Narrowed Roads

Angled Parking preserved

Curb Bumpouts at Intersections

Curb Bumpouts at Midblock Crossings

Planters adjacent to Sidewalks

Patterned Intersection with Crosswalks