Western Avenue Complete Streets Reconstruction

Project Highlights

  • #1 Bicycle Track in the US, 2015, People for Bikes
  • Design Merit Award, 2017, Boston Society of Landscape Architects
  • Multimodal Design
  • Complete Streets
  • Integrated Green Infrastructure

Innovative Design Incorporates Safety, Flood Control

Western Avenue operates as a critical connection between Central Square and the Charles River in Cambridge, MA. Our landscape architects had a major role in reinvigorating the streetscape as a “Complete Streets” project featuring an innovative stormwater control system. The integrated design strategy improves pedestrian circulation and introduces a buffered bike lane to create a bustling, multi-modal street.

Vibrant planting, street trees, improved lighting, and seating elements provide enjoyable spaces for the community, while the redesign of Cronin Park and other parklets and the integration of interpretive art installations create a sense of place that celebrates the history of the neighborhood. Our team worked closely with the City and multi-disciplinary team to complete an extensive public process, achieving the objective of supporting all users, including walkers, cyclists, bus riders, and drivers.

The reconstruction of Western Avenue was notable for incorporating safety measures that encouraged multi-modal transportation. The cycletrack is fully buffered from the street, streetscape elements are included to increase traffic safety, and the street itself connects to regional networks of cycling paths.

Services Snapshot

Halvorson | Tighe & Bond studio provided landscape architecture design services in support of this project.

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