The Research Drive Study is an extension of the urban and campus design discussion as it pertains to the aggregate opportunities of architecture, multi-modal transportation, pedestrian flow, and experiential and functional landscape. This study analyzed pedestrian and vehicular patterns and volume along and across Research Drive, considered and fostered the conversation around new building master planning and street frontage, and developed creative but practical solutions.
Through a collaborative and fluid design process with the University, a focus on leveraging existing strengths, elevating the priority of the pedestrian, and developing a recognizable pattern language emerged. While small-scale interventions are suggested along the length of Research Drive to create a legible more cohesive image, the heavily used pedestrian connection along the Greenway between the Medical and Engineering campus is truly the focal point of the study. The raised crossing is designed such that the pedestrian experience is prioritized over that of the automobile as a defacto extension of the walkability of the campus as a whole. A simple wooden deck is weaved among the pine stand to provide both at grade level connections the street as well as places of rest and social gathering. In addition to a street language, this plan enhances the greenway language and sets up an intuitive armature for the future development of the campus.
