Abstract:
Among the many problems faced by economically depressed communities, lackof quality and amount of recreation space is a major concern. Park systems exist as an ameliorating element for societal ills, thus becoming all the more important for poor communities. Better uses of existing park space and new approaches to recreational needs should be considered. Greenways offer unique solutions to these problems. Using a relatively small amount of space, greenways can provide linkages to numerous places, a pedestrian-oriented transportation alternative, create places of social interaction, and improve the community environment, health and welfare. They can be designed to reflect their respective communities, becoming points of pride. This design will focuses on how a greenway can respond towards bettering an economically depressed community.The site I selected for the project is located along a proposed segment of the Monon Trail in Indianapolis, Indiana. The community between 30th and 16th St. is characterized by the economic conditions congruent with my study topic. The site itself is an abandoned railroad yard stretching from 23rd St. to 28th St. along the proposed trail. The design solution for this node along the trail is based on information garnered from case studies, city agencies, universities, demographic studies, surveys and site visits.
