City of Baxley 2023: Downtown Visioning and Design

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Downtown Visioning and Design

THE GEORGIA DOWNTOWN RENAISSANCE FELLOWSHIP

A component of the Georgia Downtown Renaissance Partnership, the Georgia Downtown Renaissance Fellowship pairs emerging design professionals from the University of Georgia College of Environment + Design with local governments to enhance downtown development in communities across Georgia.

Following a competitive selection process, graduatelevel student fellows are selected for their design and communication skills as well as overall commitment to community design. Throughout the 12-week program, Renaissance Fellows work directly with their partner city, producing renderings and plans collaboratively in a studio environment at UGA’s Carl Vinson Institute of Government. Fellows hone their designs and planning expertise under the direction of five full-time design and planning staff. With backgrounds ranging from historic preservation and landscape architecture to graphic design, these experts help guide the creation of professional-level plans and renderings produced by student fellows during the program.

Since 2013, the Georgia Downtown Renaissance Fellows have assisted 28 communities throughout the state. With the assistance of the Georgia Municipal Association and the Georgia Cities Foundation, the City of Baxley was selected as one of two communities to take part in the 2023 Georgia Downtown Renaissance Fellowship. Partner cities are selected based on the criteria of strong local leadership, community commitment, and fiscal readiness to act on projects.

Garrison Taylor, a graduate student studying landscape architecture at UGA’s College of Environment + Design, worked directly with Baxley city manager Keri Orvin and the Baxley Downtown Development Authority to address specific design opportunities in Baxley. Taylor incorporated local priorities to create design solutions and develop a vision for several key locations downtown. This project emerged from Baxley’s participation in the Planning Rural Opportunities for Prosperity and Economic Leadership (PROPEL) program, which provides rural communities with resources to create systems necessary to support their own economic and workforce development strategies. The two-year program is operated by the Carl Vinson Institute of Government and funded by a grant from USDA Rural Development.

The primary goals of this project were (1) to enhance walkability in downtown Baxley by improving the city’s streets, sidewalks, and public spaces; (2) to provide design options to local property owners rejuvenating downtown buildings and parcels; and (3) to show how improvements to Baxley’s parks and public spaces can mitigate heat and drainage issues in the area.

PARTNERS

BAXLEY DOWNTOWN DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY

Keri Orvin, City Manager

Livvy Davis, DDA Director

John Paul Ewaldsen, Chairman

Steve Kauger, Vice Chairman

Heather Mullis, Secretary/Treasurer

Allen Miles

Santina Fryer

Bryan Shipes

Natalie Orvin

GEORGIA MUNICIPAL ASSOCIATION

Cindy Eidson, Director of Economic and Community Development

Chris Higdon, Community Development Manager

GEORGIA CITIES FOUNDATION

Pam Sessions, President

CARL VINSON INSTITUTE OF GOVERNMENT

Danny Bivins, Senior Public Service Associate

Kaitlin Messich, Public Service Associate

T. Clark Stancil, Creative Design Specialist & Fellowship Coordinator

Kelsey Broich, Creative Design Specialist

Eleonora Machado, Creative Design Specialist

Karen DeVivo, Editor

Greg Wilson, Assistant Director; State Services and Decision Support

Kira Greenfield, Research Professional

UGA COLLEGE OF ENVIRONMENT + DESIGN

Garrison Taylor, Downtown Renaissance Fellow, Summer 2023

Sam Nash Riggs, Downtown Renaissance Fellow, Summer 2023

Franco Conocchiari-Scherer, Carl Vinson Institute Graduate Assistant, Spring 2023

BAXLEY DOWNTOWN DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY

The Downtown Development Authority (DDA) of Baxley was created through a resolution from the Baxley City Council in 1982 and was reactivated in 2019 to help further revitalization efforts in Baxley. The primary goal of the DDA of Baxley is to revitalize and redevelop the downtown business district for the betterment of trade, commerce, and industry and to provide employment opportunities within the district by fostering a climate favorable to commerce. The DDA of Baxley works diligently to promote, maintain, and enhance an economically viable downtown by focusing on public and private resources to fulfill downtown Baxley’s potential for the benefit of the entire community.

GEORGIA MUNICIPAL ASSOCIATION

Created in 1933, the Georgia Municipal Association (GMA) is the only state organization that represents municipal governments in Georgia. Based in Atlanta, GMA is a voluntary, nonprofit organization that provides legislative advocacy, educational, employee benefit, and technical consulting services to its members. GMA’s mission is to anticipate and influence the forces shaping Georgia’s cities and to provide leadership, tools, and services that assist municipal governments in becoming more innovative, effective, and responsive.

GEORGIA CITIES FOUNDATION

The Georgia Cities Foundation was originally established in 1999 by the Georgia Municipal Association as a 501(c)(3) organization. In December 2010, the foundation was designated as a Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) by the US Department of the Treasury’s CDFI Fund. The foundation’s mission is to assist cities in their community and economic development efforts to revitalize and enhance underserved downtown areas by serving as a partner and facilitator in funding capital projects and by providing training and technical assistance.

CARL VINSON INSTITUTE OF GOVERNMENT

For more than 90 years, the Institute of Government has informed, inspired, and innovated so that governments can be more efficient and responsive to citizens, address current and emerging challenges, and serve the public with excellence. From Georgia’s early days as a largely agrarian state with a modest population to its modern-day status as a national and international force in business, industry, and politics with a population of over 10.5 million, the Institute of Government has promoted excellence in government through technical assistance, training programs, applied research, and technology solutions.

UGA COLLEGE OF ENVIRONMENT + DESIGN

The University of Georgia’s College of Environment+ Design (CED) has been consistently ranked among the top schools in the nation for both undergraduate- and graduate-level landscape architecture. CED also provides nationally accredited, innovative, and demanding programs in historic preservation, urban planning and design, and environmental ethics. Students are challenged to explore their unique, individual interests and creatively problem-solve community issues in design charrettes. They also interact with clients, community organizations, and planning agencies. CED aims to connect its students with a large and accomplished alumni network as much as possible. Visiting professors, professionals, and lecturers provide frequent opportunities for students to network with and learn from renowned designers in a broad range of career options.

A new mural welcomes visitors to downtown Baxley

INTRODUCTION TO BAXLEY

Located in the coastal plains region of South Georgia, Baxley is a friendly and charming city with a historic and growing downtown. The seat of Appling County, Baxley serves as a hub for activity in the area. Baxley’s 5,000 residents are drawn to the city’s slower pace, close-knit community, and thriving agricultural and industrial base. Visitors come from throughout the region to visit the many community events, sports competitions, and an array of natural resources in and around the city.

Baxley was settled in the late 1800s along the Macon and Brunswick Railroad. Local businessman Wilson Baxley sold some of his land to help bring the railroad to the area. The community that grew around the new railroad was named in his honor. The town remained a small rural community for many decades, cultivating corn, wheat, sugar cane, timber, cotton, tobacco, and sweet potatoes. Baxley’s residents made good use of the abundance of pine trees, turning Appling County into a center of turpentine production and logging. Today, the Edwin Hatch Nuclear Power Plant on the Altamaha River is the largest employer in the area. Some of Baxley’s notable citizens include authors Caroline Miller and Janisse Ray.

Miller wrote the 1933 Pulitzer Prize-winning Lamb in His Bosom in Baxley. Miller often visited Barnes’s Drugstore downtown. While closed for many years, this building remains a downtown landmark and one of the area’s

many historical buildings. Ray, a prominent environmentalist, grew up in Baxley and chronicled her upbringing among the longleaf pines in Ecology of a Cracker Childhood (1999).

Baxley’s downtown, once a bustling community hub, began to decline with the expansion of two major highways through the center of the city. Local businesses relocated, moving away from downtown in a sprawling growth pattern. Baxley’s downtown is currently undergoing a revitalization with the assistance of tools like Georgia’s Rural Zone program and PROPEL. One example is the renovation of the oncevacant property at 55 Main Street, which now houses two ground-floor businesses and a mural welcoming visitors downtown. A Savannah beauty boutique, The Soapery, has plans to relocate to Baxley and set up a production facility and a storefront downtown. The community is also investing in major public improvements including a recently completed aquatics center in Max Deen Park and a splash pad planned for Water Works Park.

With assistance from local and state partners, downtown development is gaining momentum and drawing enthusiasm from the city. Citizens are eager to see their downtown return to a bustling, familyoriented gathering place for locals and visitors alike.

The breeze block wall at the former pool builiding screens and adds interest

PURPOSE OF THIS DOCUMENT

In the summer of 2023, the City of Baxley and the Baxley Downtown Development Authority (DDA) sought design assistance from UGA’s Carl Vinson Institute of Government. The Baxley DDA worked with Garrison Taylor of UGA’s College of Environment + Design to outline a vision to guide the future development of downtown Baxley. Known as the Georgia Downtown Renaissance Fellowship, this design assistance was made available to Baxley through a partnership between the DDA, the Georgia Municipal Association, the Georgia Cities Foundation, the UGA College of Environment + Design, and the UGA Carl Vinson Institute of Government. This project was also made possible by the Institute of Government’s Georgia Workforce and Economic Resilience Center, with additional financial support from the UGA Foundation to support PROPEL communities. This project is a continuation of the PROPEL (Planning Rural Opportunities for Prosperity and Economic Leadership) program, funded by

USDA Rural Development. One of the action items identified in Appling County’s economic development action plan was to develop a downtown vision. The generous support of these funding partners allowed this planning effort to take place without any cost to Baxley.

This document helps visualize and conceptualize options for the future growth of downtown Baxley. The designs that follow respond to unique challenges and opportunities found in the downtown area, including streetscape improvements and opportunities to enhance environmental resilience throughout downtown. Developed with the assistance and oversight of Baxley City Manager Keri Orvin, the proposed designs show concepts that create safer, more efficient, and more attractive streets and public spaces for residents. Together, these designs are intended to spur community development to enhance downtown Baxley for its residents.

Cheerful plantings along main street brighten things up downtown

Baxley’s city flag adorns the city council chambers

SCOPE OF WORK

Planners at the University of Georgia’s Carl Vinson Institute of Government worked closely with Baxley city manager Keri Orvin and the Downtown Development Authority to develop a focused but comprehensive scope of work for the 12-week project. The scope emphasizes improving accessibility downtown and creating sustainable programming opportunities.

Traditions Parking Area

■ Create one illustrative plan showing proposed improvements to the parking area adjacent to the former Traditions restaurant, including elements like parking, pedestrian features, outdoor areas, street trees, and more.

■ Create three to four renderings showing improvement options at the former Traditions parking area.

■ Create one to two renderings showing improvements and activity at nearby buildings, including the historic R.F. Harman & Sons pavilion.

Streetscape and Alleys

Westside Alley

■ Create one to two renderings showing improvements to the alleyway between Park Avenue and Tippins Street south of the Appling County Courthouse.

Main Street Crosswalk

■ Develop one to two renderings showing potential locations for crosswalks along Main Street (US Highway 1).

Park Avenue Back-of-House Streetscape

■ Create one to two renderings showing improvements and screening of back-of-house areas along Park Avenue, including options for dumpster enclosures.

Street Trees

■ Create one to two renderings showing the impact of planting street trees at key locations downtown.

■ Create a plan view showing potential locations for street trees along key corridors.

Parks and Recreation

Water Works Park Splash Pad

■ Create one rendering illustrating the proposed location of a splash pad at Water Works Park.

Max Deen Memorial Park

■ Create one concept plan of Max Deen Memorial Park showing the approximate location of programmed recreation areas and how elements like parking, walkways, and existing features relate in the landscape.

■ Create two to three renderings of options showing improvements to park facilities.

CONCEPTS

DESIGN DESIGN

Baxley is a quiet and growing small city whose residents take pride in the community’s friendly atmosphere and the city’s historic downtown. Despite being bisected by two major highways, Baxley’s downtown still feels welcoming and walkable. The following design concepts aim to enhance walkability and preserve the palpable sense of community downtown. As the city continues to grow and develop, two key issues will be important to ensure the safety and comfort of the community: heat and flooding. The most heavily paved areas downtown are plagued by drainage problems and intense heat. Both issues can be greatly reduced by investing in street trees. Street trees are proven to be one of the most reliable ways of encouraging walking and reducing traffic speeds. The shade and transpiration of water from trees also helps lower temperatures in urban areas. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, trees can help reduce temperatures by up to nine degrees, while also reducing cooling costs for buildings and improving air quality.

TRADITIONS PARKING AREA

Previously used as a restaurant patio and popular community gathering space, this site is now overgrown and neglected.

The area behind the former Traditions restaurant building is currently a large expanse of broken asphalt, trash receptacles, and semipermanent puddles. Nicknamed “The Pond” by locals, this area has notorious stormwater issues and is in dire need of repaving. Despite its prime location in the heart of downtown— between Harvey’s supermarket and the popular Mi Sombrero Mexican Restaurant—this site sits vacant. The historic building was once home to a vibrant restaurant with live music and outdoor seating. The bar and kitchen remain, but the building is now home to a storefront church, a use often restricted by local zoning that limits activity in the area.

TRADITIONS PARKING AREA

GATHERING SPACE

These renderings show a proposed development plan behind the buildings. A central lawn with shade trees can be used as flexible space, and a deck near the building can be used as either a stage or as an outdoor dining area. Unpaved planted areas like the lawn shown can help mitigate drainage issues by allowing stormwater to percolate into the ground, recharging the water table and reducing harmful runoff. Using tree trenches (a method of connecting street trees via underground infiltration systems) can also help reduce stormwater runoff. Both buildings are shown with updated rear façades and business entrances. Parking is available on all four sides of the central green, ensuring accessibility to all businesses. This concept also includes a sidewalk shown to the right of the former Traditions restaurant, making pedestrian access to Comas Street safer.

ABOVE: Previously used as a restaurant patio and popular community gathering space, this site is now overgrown and neglected.

This proposed plan shows a first option for this space. This design features a one-way drive lane and parallel parking adjacent to the existing businesses. The small alley between the Comas Street and Park Avenue buildings could be used for back-of-house service needs. The space shown could accommodate two standard 8-yard dumpsters and several city garbage cans. Situated at the end of a straight drive, this service area would also be easily accessible to garbage trucks.

PROPOSED: This design concept shows the vacant lot transformed with a flexible lawn, outdoor seating, and shade trees.

ABOVE: The same concept is shown with an outdoor smokehouse to draw visitors to the proposed restaurant.

LEFT:

TRADITIONS PARKING AREA GATHERING

SPACE

This second concept shows the area activated and repurposed as an open plaza with a small water feature/splash pad, moveable chairs, and shade trees.

EXISTING: Conditions shown include a confusing arrangement of unmarked parking, dangerous potholes, and back-of-house services.

PROPOSED: This plan view shows proposed improvements, including a flexible plaza, play fountain, movable seating, and street trees.

PROPOSED: This rendering shows a second option for development of this prominent parcel. Instead of a central green surrounded by curbs, this concept shows an on-grade plaza constructed with permeable pavers. Like turf and landscaping, permeable pavers can help address drainage issues by allowing stormwater runoff to soak back into the ground. This flexible paved plaza features a compact splash pad/water feature as the focal point of the space. As parents wait for lunch at the restaurant, kids can cool off or just get their feet wet and burn off some energy! Large-canopy shade trees like the sycamores pictured would be essential to keep the plaza comfortable in the summer and help mitigate stormwater runoff. Tree trenches could also be used to ensure a healthy street tree canopy. The plaza is shown on-grade with the parking lot, with bollards separating the spaces. These bollards could be removed for vehicular delivery or event access. The open plan of the space allows for change over time. Outdoor restaurant dining is shown behind the former Traditions restaurant, but any adjacent Park Avenue businesses would also have easy access to outdoor dining or retail space. This design option includes roughly the same number of parking spaces as the option shown on page 19.

TRADITIONS PARKING AREA

BUILDING FAÇADE

The front of the historic building at the corner of Tippins Street and Comas Street has seen better days. Due to its previous life as popular restaurant Traditions, it still features a full bar and commercial kitchen. It is an excellent size and location to once again become a popular dining destination.

EXISTING: This photo shows the façade of the former Traditions restaurant, which currently houses a storefront church. The existing awnings provide little protection from rain or sun and do not match the building’s historic appearance. This façade has also been altered in ways that are not period appropriate. The sheet metal above the windows and white columns are fairly recent additions that distract from the historic building’s beauty.

PROPOSED: This rendering shows the building with a new business and an updated but historically appropriate façade. The brick has been restored and the paint on the lower portion of the building removed, revealing the rest of the distinctive masonry detailing. A restaurant and adjoining bar fill the former Traditions space. More appropriate awnings are shown over the entrances, along with understated signage.

PROPOSED: The same scene at night shows how a bright and friendly restaurant could liven up the whole street in the evenings.

HARMAN PAVILION

Harman Pavilion is already a fantastic feature of downtown Baxley that showcases the authenticity of this community. The patina on the metal paneling of this former feed and seed speaks to Baxley’s rich history and sense of place. With minor improvements and ongoing programming, this spot could be a beloved gathering space in no time.

EXISTING:

This image shows the existing Harman Pavilion, a lovely but underused spot in the heart of downtown. Shade is a must during the South Georgia summers, so a covered outdoor area in the heart of downtown holds a lot of potential. The building is in good structural shape but needs dedicated use.

PROPOSED: This rendering shows a coffee truck and patio tables as a proposed programming option at the pavilion. A similar use would require minimal setup and create an attractive community gathering space. Existing string lights are shown turned on, and the new pair of fans pictured could significantly enhance year-round programming of the space. The hand-painted sign from the other side of the building is also shown replicated here to provide a focal point.

PROPOSED: This proposed programming option shows a picking circle similar to “Pickin’ in the Park,” a popular weekly gathering of musicians in the Copper Basin community along the Georgia–Tennessee state line. Picking circles are generally open to anyone with an instrument, and musicians play a mix of folk standards and popular songs. If you know the song, you play along; if you don’t, you learn it! A King of Pops popsicle cart, along with music, would draw people from across the area and appeal to kids and grown-ups alike.

STREETSCAPE AND ALLEYS

Thanks to the efforts of local leaders and groups like the DDA, Baxley has already made some phenomenal strides in improving the streetscape and pedestrian experience of their downtown—but how can it be even better? The concepts that follow build on the work already happening in Baxley and imagine what could take those efforts to the next level. The main recommendation throughout these concepts is trees. A tree-lined street is a pedestrian’s best friend, making shade and creating a barrier between the sidewalks and the busy roads downtown. Baxley already has the infrastructure for a significant number of street trees in the form of bump-out planters. Why not make the most of them?

Two major highways intersect right in the middle of downtown Baxley: US Highway 1 and Golden Isles Parkway. Both are four-lane roads with fast, high-volume traffic all day. Programming the existing alleyways is a good way to improve pedestrian activity, build local character, and prioritize safety downtown.

STREETSCAPE AND ALLEYS WESTSIDE ALLEY

This alley, located on the west side of downtown Baxley, connects Park Avenue and Tippins Street. On Park Avenue, the alley is flanked by an Appling Healthcare building and South Georgia Insurance Associates. While the Park Avenue side is wide enough for three lanes of traffic, the Tippins side narrows to allow one car. This makes the area awkward to use for vehicular traffic despite the presence of a drive-through window on the alley side of the Appling Healthcare building on the left. The alley is currently used for occasional parking and maintenance access, but not much else. The concepts developed for this area take advantage of existing features without cutting off utility access.

EXISTING: This photo shows the existing alleyway on the west side of town. The concrete paving is patched and broken, and blank walls flank both sides of the alley. Budlings on either side frame a picturesque view of the landmark Appling County Courthouse dome.

PROPOSED: This option shows the alley as a functioning drive-through while still providing a protected play area. A downtown location of the beloved local restaurant Common Ground is shown on the left with a mural and pickup window. Large-canopy trees provide shade for the curved benches and help absorb stormwater.

PROPOSED: This rendering shows the alley as the site of a pedestrian-focused pocket park. Trees are shown planted in tree wells within the brick-paved surface that matches the surrounding sidewalks. Recommended species include Chinese elm (Ulmus parvifolia), trident maple (Acer buergeranium ‘Streetwise’) and black gum (Nyssa sylvatica), which has stunning autumn color. Both walls are shown with colorful murals. The underutilized hospital building on the left is shown repurposed as a café, which could use the existing drive-through window as a pickup order window. Built-in benches line the left-hand wall, and playful curving benches can be used for many different configurations of seating or playing. The green patch on the right side is shown as a mini playground with some play boulders, a tiny swinging bridge, and musical instruments on the wall. The small grey building is shown as a walk-up coffee counter.

BARNES DRUG STORE ALLEY

This location along busy Highway 1 already has bump-outs placed nicely for a potential crosswalk. A midblock crossing in this location could significantly improve pedestrian accessibility downtown and connect alleyways on either side of the highway, creating an important link between both sides of downtown. The unique character and programming opportunity of this alley could help draw visitors across the street and encourage them to explore all downtown Baxley has to offer.

PROPOSED, RIGHT:

This rendering shows a proposed façade renovation of the Barnes Drug building with an ice cream shop inside. The façade of the building has been painted, while the side is left natural brick. A side entrance welcomes foot traffic from the alleyway as well as creating a more secluded spot for patio seating with string lights and movable tables. A crosswalk connects two alleys on either side of the street.

EXISTING:

This image shows the existing conditions at the entrance to the alleyway along Highway 1. The Barnes Drug building has been retrofitted with a period-inappropriate roof and awning, making it stand out from the other façades along the street. The alley itself is occasionally used for parking and provides ample shade in the afternoons.

PROPOSED, BELOW:

This option shows the same renovation with a brighter color palette, evoking a cheerful “beachy” ambiance. Without the awning, this option showcases the historic masonry and matches the other buildings nearby.

BARNES DRUG STORE ALLEY

A closer look at the alley shows the existing walk-up window and the side of the popular restaurant Mi Sombrero. The signature decorative brick of the former Traditions restaurant can also be seen in the background.

EXISTING:

This alleyway adjacent to Mi Sombrero could provide an attractive location for outdoor dining.

PROPOSED:

This concept expands the outdoor seating area to the former drug store on the right. Creating a side entrance off the alley with seating could offer patrons an inviting outdoor dining experience away from the heavy traffic and noise along Main Street. This design reimagines the bank drive-in as the site of a walk-up daquiri bar. The vacant space between the restaurant and the former bank is shown programmed with flexible outdoor activities like cornhole. A mural on the once blank Mi Somberero back wall features a design by Athensbased artist Heidi Hensley.

PROPOSED: String lights, marquee lighting, and the existing lamppost create a warm and inviting evening ambiance.

STREETSCAPES AND ALLEYS CROSSWALKS

Downtown Baxley is bisected by US Highway 1, a very busy, fast, and oversized state highway. According to the Georgia Department of Transportation, around 15,000 vehicles traverse this highway each day. Log trucks are a common sight as are other heavy vehicles. This heavy traffic can make safely crossing from one side of downtown to the other on foot a harrowing experience.

This location, near the railroad crossing, is already an area where drivers are watching for cars and trains. The sidewalks in this area also feature existing curb cuts aligned for a pedestrian crossing.

EXISTING:

This photo shows US Highway 1 near the intersection with Park Avenue. The sidewalks indicate that this is a place to cross, but there is no crosswalk or crossing signal. The bump-outs are currently planted with shrubs even though they are large enough to support trees.

PROPOSED:

This rendering shows a proposed crosswalk and pedestrian crossing signs with a flashing beacon. Natchez crape myrtles are shown planted in the bumpouts on either side of the crosswalk. Trees near the street give the impression of the street narrowing, which slows traffic and reminds drivers to pay attention.

Especially with fast roads like this one, crosswalks are essential to encouraging foot traffic by making pedestrians feel safe crossing the road.

FAÇADES

ORVIN BUILDING

Recent years have seen a significant investment in the façades of Baxley’s historic buildings. The Georgia Rural Zone program provides tax incentives to stimulate investment, job creation, and economic development. Baxley’s Rural Zone designation is encouraging renewed interest in restoring downtown Baxley’s historic buildings. Local leaders and property owners requested help from designers at the Carl Vinson Institute of Government to show several downtown buildings restored and repurposed for new downtown businesses.

EXISTING:

This prominent corner building is located at the intersection of Washington Street and US Highway 1 in the heart of downtown Baxley. Until recently this large downtown storefront sat vacant for several years.. While the lower floor was renovated extensively for retail use, the second floor includes many fine historical details, including rich wood paneling and an ornate tin ceiling. The Orvin family requested a façade design concept to illustrate their vision for the building.

PROPOSED:

This façade concept shows the building reclad in white Hardiplank board and batten siding. The crisp white siding is accentuated with rustic brick detailing along the corners and on the existing post between the two storefronts. A new metal awning continues across both sections of the façade, uniting the one- and two-story portions of the building. This concept repeats the burnished slate tone of the metal awning along the proposed cornice on the two-story portion of the building. Attractive gooseneck light fixtures and inviting sconce lights like those shown could create a warm and welcoming atmosphere during evening hours. Metallic script lettering reading “A Stage Place” brands this revitalized property and promotes the local developer. Two local businesses, J&G Co. Boutique and Southern Posh Couture Bridal will occupy the renovated building. The property owners requested signage options for both businesses. The options pictured utilize the existing logos of the businesses for window signs and more traditional wall signs visible to passing vehicles. The business owners could also consider pedestrianscaled hanging signage options to further advertise their shops.

EXISTING: This image shows the completed construction on the building, now housing multiple businesses.

STREETSCAPE AND ALLEYS FAÇADES THE

SOAPERY

The Soapery is a popular bath and soap product store based in Savannah, Georgia. The store’s colorful window display with flowers and bubbles has become a destination for photos. The business owners are moving their production facility to Baxley and opening a new storefront downtown.

EXISTING: This photo shows the existing building that will soon be the home of The Soapery’s production facility and Baxley storefront. The shutters are in bad shape, and the façade is in need of new paint. Alterations over the years have made the entrances unbalanced, but the building has lots of character and charm.

PROPOSED: This rendering shows one option for proposed changes to the building’s façade. The Soapery’s storefront in Savannah features garlands of faux flowers, bubbles, and fabulous window displays. This option takes inspiration from the Savannah storefront and the color scheme of the interior. A clawfoot bathtubturned-planter welcomes visitors from the street while a bubblethemed mural identifies the building from afar. The alley to the left is also shown with a mural inspired by The Soapery’s logo as well as lights and faux flowers to activate the space at night. A Natchez crape myrtle is also shown in the bump-out to the right of the building as part of the downtown-wide street tree additions.

PROPOSED: This rendering shows a secondary design option with a color scheme more similar to the Savannah storefront with the business name across the top of the facade.

STREETSCAPE AND ALLEYS PARK AVENUE

The section of Northeast Park Avenue that runs behind Harvey’s Supermarket is wide, hot, and lined with dumpsters. This area is important for back-ofhouse access, but the scattered trash is unpleasant for visitors arriving downtown. Although a sidewalk exists in this area, this stretch has no trees, making pedestrian travel uncomfortable during the summer.

EXISTING: This photo shows the existing dumpsters on the eastern end of Harvey’s Supermarket. Dumpsters are left at odd angles, and the cardboard recycling is disintegrating. The curb is broken, with clear signs that trucks have been driving over it to access the dumpsters.

PROPOSED: This rendering shows a proposed service enclosure that could accommodate two to three dumpsters and serve as a central service area for the businesses on the eastern end of the shopping plaza. A curb cut is shown to allow truck access at this point. Crape myrtles are also planted along the sidewalk for shade and to create a cohesive planting palette throughout downtown.

PARK AVENUE

PROPOSED: This rendering shows a proposed enclosure that could house several dumpsters, a loading zone, and other necessary functions. The doors on two sides of the structure make access convenient for both dumpster use and for truck unloading, as is shown here. The roof on the enclosure ensures that even if left open, dumpsters will not collect rainwater and leak.

EXISTING: This photo shows the western end of Harvey’s Supermarket and the grocery’s back-of-house area. This area helps this downtown anchor retailer function, but it can be messy and unpleasant. Dumpsters are scattered, and a stray dog can even be seen in the background of this photo.

Crape myrtles are also shown planted along the sidewalk.

STREETSCAPE AND ALLEYS ELECTRIC VEHICLE INFRASTRUCTURE

The Carl Vinson Institute of Government has partnered with the Governor’s Office and the Georgia Department of Economic Development on the Electric Mobility and Innovation Alliance. The alliance brings together public officials and business leaders to identify and develop a comprehensive, statewide strategy to recommend policy that will boost our workforce, research and innovation, supply chain, and infrastructure for this sector. As the popularity of electric vehicles (or EVs) grows, the need to provide charging stations and encourage EV users to venture into new parts of the state is increasing.

EXISTING: This image shows the parking lot at the magistrate court building in its existing state.

PROPOSED: This rendering shows a proposed EV charging station outside the magistrate court, which would allow the public to charge their vehicles in a city lot. An additional Crape Myrtle tree is shown in the bump-out adjacent to the entrance to add shade.

PROPOSED: This rendering shows the proposed changes to this parking lot. An electric vehicle charger is shown shaded by a tree that will grow to have a very large canopy. Recommended species include willow oak and Natchez crape myrtle.

EXISTING:

This image shows the existing conditions in the parking lot in front of the city mural and across the street from the courthouse. There are planting areas, but no shade trees.

STREET TREES

STREET TREES are a tried-and-true way to encourage walking, slow traffic, and beautify a city. People develop strong attachments to trees and the places they associate with them. Street trees are also a cost-effective way to make a city more resilient in the face of weather events. After three years of watering, a hardy tree is established enough to need virtually no maintenance for the rest of its life. Compare this to shrubs or perennials, which require pruning, replacing, and watering, but do not provide any shade. Shaded surfaces (such as asphalt) can be up to 40 degrees cooler than surrounding unshaded surfaces. Shade is not the only way trees lower temperatures, either. Trees release water vapor and oxygen, which helps to cool the air around them. This process, called evapotranspiration, can reduce temperatures by an additional nine degrees. Grant opportunities are available for heatmitigating and stormwater infrastructure such as street tree plantings.

PROPOSED: This master plan shows a proposed street tree planting scheme, including the trees in the Harvey’s parking lot and the Traditions patio area.

Total Trees: 132

Recommended species:

Live Oak (Quercus virginiana)

Willow Oak (Quercus phellos)

Laurel Oak (Quercus laurifolia)

Shumard Oak (Quercus shumardii)

Chinese Elm (Ulmus parvifolia)

Crape Myrtle (Lagerstroemia indica)

STREETSCAPE AND ALLEYS HARVEY’S PARKING LOT

The parking lot in front of Harvey’s is one of the most-visited parts of downtown. With several prominent businesses and a central location, this area sees a lot of traffic, both in vehicles and on foot. However, the vast expanse of pavement bakes cars in the sun and makes walking from the far side of the lot unpleasant. The impermeable surface of the pavement also catches stormwater and prevents it from infiltrating back into the ground, creating drainage issues.

EXISTING: This aerial photo shows the parking lot of Harvey’s and a section of Golden Isles Parkway. The lot has 298 parking spaces but only one tree. The vast expanse of paving creates heat and causes drainage issues, as evidenced by flooding in the area behind the former Traditions restaurant. Planting trenched trees throughout the parking lot could nearly eliminate the runoff that creates “the pond.” The tree wells would allow for the infiltration of stormwater and reduce the amount of runoff pooling on the asphalt. The existing parking is also angled with one-way drives between rows, a layout typically used in tight urban lots with limited space. This lot has ample room for a more efficient and pleasant parking arrangement.

Large-Canopy Shade Trees (67)

Recommended species:

Laurel Oak (Quercus laurifolia)

Willow Oak (Q. phellos)

Shumard Oak (Q. shumardii)

Proposed Parking Spaces (292)

Existing Trees (10)

Proposed Patio

PROPOSED: This plan shows the proposed new parking layout in the Harvey’s lot. This arrangement has 292 parking spaces, only six less than the current layout, plus 49 trees in the parking area. This concept includes a total of 67 new trees. Large-canopy shade trees would significantly reduce the temperature in the parking area. Species like laurel oak, willow oak, and Shumard oak can tolerate heat, drought, and wet soil, making them a good fit for sites like this.

STREETSCAPE AND ALLEYS

HARVEY’S PARKING LOT

EXISTING: This photo shows the parking lot at Harvey’s on Golden Isles Parkway. The parking lot is a large paved expanse, with almost no shade except in the late evening.

PROPOSED: This rendering shows proposed street trees along Golden Isles Parkway and tree wells within the parking lot. This layout would provide not just shade for cars parked, but also a more pleasant experience for people using the sidewalk and for visitors arriving in downtown Baxley. Shade provided by street trees is a critical element for usable pedestrian spaces. Trees near the road also encourage drivers to slow down.

STREETSCAPE AND ALLEYS TIPPINS STREET MURAL

This area, at the intersection of Tippins Street and Park Avenue, is many people’s first impression of Baxley. The site is perfectly pleasant, but doesn’t make much of an impact on visitors.

Murals and street trees are two low-cost ways to make a place more inviting and memorable.

EXISTING: This photo shows the intersection of Park Avenue and Tippins Street, next to the proposed patio area behind the former Traditions building. This area is primed to become a prominent spot in downtown. Despite the ample bumpout planters, this stretch of Park Avenue has no trees. The sidewalk is paved in lovely brick, and the awnings over the businesses invite visitors in.

PROPOSED: This rendering shows a proposed mural and streetscape improvements. Medium-canopy shade trees are shown planted in the bump-outs to avoid encroaching on the power lines. They provide shade for pedestrians and parked cars. A large mural invites visitors and locals alike and draws them toward the rear of the building and the proposed patio area. The mural shown is a work by local artist Chris Johnson, who has painted murals throughout Georgia. More formalized parking spots along the building also help draw visitors to the area.

STREETSCAPE AND ALLEYS

COURTHOUSE TREE

The photo below shows the courthouse facing Highway 1. A large, beloved tree stood to the left of the building until recently, and the community plans to replace it.

The rendering on the left shows the replaced tree, pictured here as a live oak. These trees are incredible survivors, adapting to almost any condition in this region. While they may grow slowly, they can live to be hundreds of years old, making this legacy tree an investment in Baxley’s future.

PARKS AND RECREATION

Due to its location in South Georgia, Baxley can be very hot and bright in the summer. This makes the availability of shade crucial to any form of outdoor recreation. Splash pads and water features also help kids cool off and have fun during the hotter months. A new aquatics center is bringing new life to a neighborhood park, opening new possibilities for the area.

PARKS AND RECREATION WATER WORKS PARK

Water Works Park, the only park in downtown Baxley, is a lovely oasis of trees and tables, with a gathering space, a stage, and a small fountain. The fountain is often used by local children as a splash pad, leading to a proposal for a larger splash pad to replace the water tower when it comes down.

EXISTING: The existing conditions at the corner of MLK, Jr. Drive and Rosa Parks Street include a wide street with no sidewalks, an empty lot with a vacant building, and cracked asphalt.

PROPOSED: This rendering shows the splash pad proposed to replace the water tower. Based on community feedback, a fence is shown enclosing the area with brick piers matching those of other city buildings. Boulders for seating and playing are placed around the edges of the splash pad. Large trees provide shade and lightly screen the area.

PARKS AND RECREATION

MAX DEEN MEMORIAL PARK

Max Deen Memorial Park is a medium-size neighborhood park surrounded by homes and businesses. Located near the health department and Appling Healthcare, the park is in a relatively busy area. A playground, tennis court, and new aquatics center anchor this community hub. However, the old community pool still sits empty on a prominent corner, and disused structures are scattered between the play areas. Most of the park property is also a large, open space that becomes uncomfortably hot on summer days. The park’s convenient location suggests it should be busy and well-used. However, without shade and programming, more than half of the park sits unused.

EXISTING: This aerial photo of Max Deen Park shows the large, open area that makes up about a third of the park. The new aquatics center will bring more park visitors looking for more amenities. Several of the existing amenities could be altered or updated to better serve the community, like the now-obsolete existing pool, unused paved areas, and the open field.

PROPOSED: This conceptual plan shows a possible park update. A paved or gravel walking path is shown winding through the park under shade trees and around a multi-use field that can be used for a variety of sports and events. The path connects to parking areas or streets on all four sides of the park, offering a convenient way for community members to spend time outside or get some exercise. The fenced dog park at the center of the site could tie into the existing fence around the retention basin, reducing construction costs and labor. A drop-off loop and parking are shown in front of the new aquatics center. The existing but disused concrete play surface is shown here repurposed for pickleball. The playground is popular with area children but could be fenced in for parental peace of mind. The old pool is shown here as a skate park. Terre Haute, Indiana, converted a similar pool into a skate park for about $90,000 in 2019.

MAX DEEN MEMORIAL PARK

EXISTING: This view shows the new aquatics center from Floyd Street. The large, open field is lit by stadium lights, but is reportedly rarely used for recreation. The park has almost no shade, making it too sunny and hot during the summer. Turf like this, especially after periods of drought, is almost impermeable and thus is nearly as bad for stormwater management as a paved surface.

PROPOSED: This rendering shows what the conceptual plan could look like in action. Trees shade a path that surrounds a multi-use field, shown here hosting a pickup soccer game. The path encourages visitors to explore and walk, while the shade from the trees makes spending time in the park comfortable. Employees and patients from the medical facilities and the nursing home adjacent to the park could use the path for safe and recuperative exercise or enjoy a shaded lunch or break under one of the planned trees. In addition to providing shade for humans, a single oak tree can also provide habitat for up to 1,000 species of invertebrates, a crucial group for maintaining biodiversity.

SKATE PARK

Now that the new aquatics center is up and running, the old community pool is ready for a new life. Maintenance costs and safety concerns make conversion an attractive option.

PROPOSED: This rendering shows a potential use of the site that takes advantage of the existing pool. Pool-to-skate-park conversions are a relatively common solution for older pools. After installation, the maintenance costs are very low, and community use tends to remain high. Skate obstacles are also available in a range of prices: from build-it-yourself to prefabricated pieces to custom concrete forms, there are options for any budget. Skate parks can also be used with roller skates, BMX bikes, and scooters. The existing building is updated with a color palette matching other park buildings and the snack bar window open for business.

EXISTING: This photo shows the old pool as it stands now, after the opening of the new aquatics center. Plants are growing in the pavement, and furniture is scattered on the deck. With a brand-new pool next door, it does not make sense to pay to maintain this one as well.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

Thank you to Keri Orvin and the Baxley Downtown Development Authority for your guidance and leadership during this planning process. Thank you to our partners at the Georgia Municipal Association and the Georgia Cities Foundation for their ongoing support of the Georgia Downtown Renaissance Fellowship. We extend our gratitude to the PROPEL program at the Institute of Government’s Georgia Workforce and Economic Resilience Center and the UGA Foundation for making this plan available at no cost to the city.