Design Challenge: The 2018 Railside Business Improvement District development greatly enhanced Grand Island’s 3rd Street, improving aesthetics, safety, and walkability. These upgrades have made the area more enjoyable, with better signage fostering a stronger sense of community. Railside Plaza exemplifies effective space use, offering seating, meeting spots, and event space. Extending these improvements to 4th Street could further integrate the community and strengthen the city’s urban network.

Design Solution: One solution incorporates train tracks into Grand Island’s urban design to create engaging pedestrian interactions. Simple pavers, bollards, and signage for pedestrian crossings will enhance accessibility. A parallel bike trail adds connectivity, and integrating a vehicular crossing supports multiple transit modes. These elements together create a more cohesive downtown, enriching the urban experience.

Design Outcome: Collaborating with the city and stakeholders on the 4th Street Corridor redevelopment will include “Complete Streets” approaches for all transportation modes. Adding bike lanes, wider sidewalks, bus lanes, and traffic calming measures will enhance safety. Improving pedestrian-friendly crosswalks and pathways linking the 4th Street corridor to surrounding neighborhoods ensures connectivity. Placemaking strategies will create inviting public spaces with plazas, parks, public art, cultural installations, and green infrastructure. These efforts aim to create a vibrant, accessible, and inclusive environment for all users.