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Daniel Biederman, Principal of BRV Corp. says, "The
Downtown Newark Streetscape Improvement Project will in some ways be
better than those programs I've led in Manhattan since we were able to
learn from those experiences and tweak the design and materials to best
serve the City of Newark."
All fixtures will be finished in a high performance, graffiti-resistant, color coating in
the City of Newark standard black. |
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The street lamp luminaries and poles will be custom-fabricated,
and four different tiers of streetlamps reflecting the size
and character of the streets will be installed so that the sidewalks
of Downtown Newark are continuously bright, thus creating a safe
and inviting atmosphere for pedestrians. Metal halide lamps will
replace high pressure sodium vapor lamps to provide a brighter,
whiter light. “The
difference will be day and night,” says H3 Principal,
John Fontillas. Certain street lamps will feature banner arms
allowing the Newark Downtown District (NDD) to promote cultural
events and activities downtown, while also branding the district.
Other poles will feature arms for hanging baskets allowing for
more greenery against the urban streetscape.
The Newark Downtown District (NDD) bench will have a frame made
from recycled steel and will be designed for low maintenance
and high durability in an urban environment.
Four different groups of trees will be planted reflecting the scale and character of individual
streets. Smaller, columnar trees will be planted on narrow side streets, while larger, wider
varieties will grace larger boulevards like Broad Street. All of the trees have been selected
for their attractiveness as well as their ability to thrive in an urban environment. Distinctive
tree pits formed by granite curbing will provide abundant space and water for healthy tree growth.
The pits will also be adorned with attractive flower beds for seasonal display.
Where sidewalks are narrow, attractive metal tree pit grates
will allow for air and water to reach the root systems while providing
for a smooth and safe pedestrian surface. In areas where vaults beneath
sidewalks and other obstacles prevent installation of tree pits, planter
boxes with lush seasonal foliage will reinforce the uniqueness and attractiveness
of Downtown Newark.
Improving Downtown Newark’s sidewalk treatments at the street corners
will produce an impressive visual impact at a place where pedestrians
gather while waiting to cross the street. Every corner will be both
beautiful and functional, with granite curb cuts allowing for smooth
access to crosswalks for all pedestrians, including individuals with
disabilities. Replacing concrete with granite will provide a more durable
and, ultimately much smoother surface. The corners will consist of a
black granite field with gold granite ramps, a brick band and black granite
curbing. Crosswalks will be embossed and highly visible to both pedestrians
and motorists.
Since 2000, the Newark Downtown District (NDD) has installed
dozens of receptacles to aid in the reduction of litter downtown
and the Newark Downtown District Clean Ambassadors have disposed
of more than 1,400 tons of trash. The new trash receptacle
has a 36 gallon capacity and a decorative shell enclosure that
contains a low-cost polyethylene liner. Their clever side access
door allows personnel to empty them easily without heavy lifting.
The recycled steel receptacle has a high-performance finish which
resists graffiti and vandalism.
Signage in Downtown Newark will be improved on every level -
directional signs for motorists, signs marking street names, and pedestrian-oriented
signs that will provide directions and distances to major destinations,
retailers, and historic landmarks. The signage will be color-coded to
add to ease of use, will be made of durable and reflective materials,
and, in some instances, will be illuminated.
The sheer number of local and regional daily newspapers, as well
as free weekly publications, has left Downtown Newark sidewalks crowded
with newspaper boxes chained to utility poles and streetlights, creating
eyesores and safety hazards. Durable and attractive newspaper boxes will
be installed in later phases of the Project, helping to reduce clutter
on sidewalks and improve pedestrian access. |
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