GOAL
DUKE ENERGY SUBSTATION
Enhance the entry experience from State Route 63 to the downtown along the Cincinnati Dayton Road corridor and improve overall aesthetics of the area, especially surrounding the substation.
This Focus Area is an extension of the downtown plan seen on page 113 in the Downtown Section. The Duke Energy Substation just north of downtown is one of the many developments that line Cincinnati Dayton Road / Main Street. Subsequently, it is also one of the first sights to welcome visitors to the downtown when heading south along Main Street. Though electrical substations are critical infrastructure, they are utilitarian in nature and not typically designed to match their surroundings. The substation will not be relocated as it would be a substantially timely and costly process. Instead, various strategies and techniques are recommended to buffer the substation while still providing access to the utility. The enhancement plan for the substation details an improved streetscape and crossings as well as numerous landscape plantings. Roadway improvements include the incorporation of landscaped medians, new sidewalks, a multi-use trail, and enhanced intersections with colorful crosswalks and large intersection plazas that allow pedestrians and trail users to safely queue before crossing the street. Landscape enhancements include the incorporation of new street trees, varied and low maintenance native plantings, and stormwater planters to help manage runoff. Immediately surrounding the electrical substation, new vegetated buffers are recommended to screen and control views and soften the appearance of the substation from any angle. These recommended improvements will increase biodiversity and enhance the gateway and welcome experience to Downtown Monroe. Connectivity has been highlighted throughout the plan and safety is a key function of encouraging more people to walk or ride bikes throughout the community. The recommended improvements surrounding the substation will significantly improve pedestrian safety and enhance the district’s aesthetics, leading to a more enjoyable pedestrian experience. Incorporation of new vegetation and landscaped medians will also calm and slow traffic by providing the sense of a narrowed corridor.
Chapter 10 Focus Areas | 119
