MOBILITY CONDITIONS The most prevalent issue regarding mobility is the continuous interaction of cars and pedestrians, especially at the entryways to the commercial centers. In addition, there is a need to better separate the sidewalk from the roadway. Bike lanes are on par with the street in terms of elevation, however that’s an uneven hierarchy in terms of safety and mobility. This corridor has the opportunity to introduce a solution to better separate bikes and cars due to the width of the lanes. IDENTITY & BRAND CONDITIONS Most major corridors in south Florida lack identity. They are auto oriented, dangerous and unappealing. This street, however, has opportunity to build upon the previous right of way improvements to create an example for other cities to follow in terms of brand and image. There is currently a lack of signage, banners, or special streetscape components to indicate you are “somewhere”. Vision With a growing cluster of restaurants highlighting international cuisine, this east Sunrise corridor becomes a recognizable destination for specialty food products and venues. Bright and bold banners signal you have arrived and new green buffers promote the perception of safer walk along the sidewalk. As parcels near the canal redevelop, views to the canal create opportunity for new restaurants. Bicyclists from nearby neighborhoods are finding it easier to go car-free. Lowes and Home Depot are considering the inclusion of outparcel restaurants at their sites. New wayfinding signage connects diners and shoppers to the Village Center in east Sunrise – as does the trolley. Recommendations CHARACTER & PHYSICAL RECOMMENDATIONS • Create Expanded Sidewalk “Green Buffers” with “Bulb Outs” or Pedestrian Areas at Key Nodes for Pedestrian Emphasis: The goal is to clearly promote the pedestrian presence on the street. • Create an Elaborate Landscaping and Lighting Theme that Promotes an International Food Themed Environment: Incorporate internationally acclaimed public art displays, specialized lighting, and direct pathways to international shops and restaurants. (Capitalize on the physical assets in the area) Fill in medians with appropriate landscaping, not just grass. • Invest in a Themed Light Pole/Banner Program: One that highlights the many international restaurants or other assets in the corridor. • Design and Build a Wayfinding Signage System: It should help direct customers to the Village Center, City Park, and the new public plaza. • Incentivize Suburban Reuse Projects on Large Parcels: These should feel more like lifestyle centers or outdoor malls. An example is adding a small plaza or pop up coffee shop to start the transition and later adding more retail as parking reductions take place. • Encourage Property Owners to Build Outparcels Near the Sidewalk: Such uses should not have a drive through but should offer outdoor seating. UNIVERSITY DRIVE CORRIDOR
Retail Frontage Walkway
S S Example of over emphasized pedestrian elements i.e. pavers that meet the street edge. Lauderdale by the Sea.
74 | EAST SUNRISE IMPROVEMENTS MASTER PLAN
Made with FlippingBook - Online catalogs