Buchanan, MI
The vision illustrated below is the result of an intense collaborative process initiated by the Buchanan City Commission. A broad diversity of voices have been part of this process. It represent the portion of the the project that was placed under my care, excluding the video.
Collaborative Class Urban Planning - Andrews University
Infill Development & Parking Court
The existing central block parking court was reorganized to preserve the same number of public parking spaces freeing up space for infill redevelopment. Conceived here as mostly residential, it was proposed to be self-parked with tuck-under designs.
Use of Waterfront
It was proposed that downtown Buchanan should prioritize waterfront development along McCoy Creek. Facades facing the water should be opened up for access and visibility. This invites economic and social activity and enhances the feeling of safety. Patios, decks, porches, benches, and murals help to promote activity.
Placemaking
The public pedestrian passages were proposed to be designed as a consistently high-quality, memorable environment with appropriate paving, planters to conceal equipment, benches, lighting, and other amenities.