Boxcar Alley

Drawing on the context of this site adjacent to the 1902 Central of Georgia Depot and two active rail lines, Madison leaders envisioned a vibrant area of train car–inspired microbusinesses.

BOXCAR ALLEY

Constructed from shipping containers, these units could be revamped by local fabricators to incorporate two rentable storefronts in each 40’ x 8’ container. Designs created for the DDA include seven shipping containers with a mix of 40’ and 20’ sizes to allow for more flexibility in use and spacing. If the larger containers are subdivided, these containers could attract up to 12 new retail or other businesses to this growing area. This design also includes a rooftop deck on two adjoining containers, creating an overlook space appropriate for events or outdoor dining. This deck sits on top of a dedicated public restroom facility and a retail or restaurant space facing the multi-use trail. With economical construction methods, these units could help address the need for affordable downtown commercial space while encouraging new start-up businesses, gallery spaces, and more.

The site plan for Boxcar Alley created by Institute of Government designers centers on a proposed flexible outdoor gathering space. Envisioned with an industriallooking trellis, this welcoming, open area could host outdoor dining or programmed events. An 8’ boardwalk and multi-use path links the proposed boxcar alley and restaurant or brewery space with the historic Central of Georgia Depot to the southwest. The site plan illustrates the planned extension of Bull Street to connect with 5th Street. The newly extended 24’ street includes 47 on-street parking spaces for business patrons and visitors. This concept also includes landscaped bump-outs with space for 11 new street trees. Large-canopy street trees such as Shumard oaks (Quercus shumardii), willow oaks (Quercus phellos), or blight-resistant New Harmony American elms (Ulmus americana ‘New Harmony’) could create a welcoming cover of shade over time. The proposed 6,000-square-foot brewpub or restaurant includes a surface parking lot with 12 dedicated spaces. To service the seven containers proposed, this design includes a 12’ rear service alley partially buffered from the adjacent restaurant/ brewery and boardwalk. This rear alley allows the proposed container businesses to keep all back-of-house activities out of the shared space adjacent to the trail. Appropriate smallcanopy evergreen screening species include Little Gem magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora ‘Little Gem’), Brodie eastern red cedar (Juniperus virginiana ‘Brodie’), or Savannah holly (Ilex x ‘Savannah’).

This view along the multi-use path shows the train car–themed microbusinesses, the multi-use trail, hanging string lights, and a canopied bar area.

BOXCAR ALLEY