WXY creates conceptual master plan for revitalization of Fordham Plaza

On behalf of the New York City Economic Development Corporation (EDC), WXY architecture + design (WXY) has completed a conceptual master plan for the design and management of a renewed Fordham Plaza, which is at the intersection of Webster Ave. and Fordham Rd., across from Fordham University and adjacent to the MetroNorth railroad. "Fordham Plaza poses many transportation, economic and public space challenges, but it has the potential to be a real model for connecting communities and mass transit through innovative open space design," said Claire Weisz, AIA, principal of WXY. "Our multi-faceted master plan is intended to address these issues, with a host of recommendations. It's also meant to align with many of the goals and initiatives of PlaNYC 2030." The Fordham Plaza Conceptual Masterplan is expected to be implemented through the New York City Department of Design and Construction's Design Excellence program. One of the biggest problems that has long faced the area is that Fordham Plaza is not only a major transportation hub with twelve bus routes along the plaza, a bus terminal and a train station stop for MetroNorth Railroad, but that its road network has been a major source of traffic congestion. In its review, WXY uncovered conflicts between bus and automobile traffic that were causing unnecessary delays, particularly during rush hour, and were therefore encouraging jaywalking by pedestrians. "In order to make the plaza functional, we recommended earmarking Third Avenue at Fordham Plaza for bus traffic only and creating a more compact bus turnaround," said Weisz. "By removing the bus streets that cut through the Plaza and increasing the frontage on Fordham Rd., the plaza redesign simplifies the road network and is projected to alleviate some of the congestion points along Fordham Rd. The result is a win-win for pedestrians, motorists and straphangers alike - a more pedestrian-friendly, less congested, and ultimately a safer place to travel. This should make Fordham Plaza more appealing for both commuters and residents and result in a great place for special events and the Greenmarket planned for the site." Given Fordham Plaza's prime location, it serves as a center for economic activity for the community. But WXY's surveys and interviews revealed that although Fordham Rd. is one of the busiest commercial corridors in New York City, the current retail venues are not adequately serving the community. Accordingly, WXY proposed introducing a more balanced retail mix, including food vendors and other retailers who would complement the existing vendors and stores in the neighborhood and support a well maintained public space. "We are suggesting a retail component that is both useful and revenue-generating, yet does not disrupt the existing operations of neighborhood buildings," said Weisz. "Ultimately, we want the plaza to host a café at its entryway, a Greenmarket and local retailers who are interested in making this a pleasing destination - not simply a place to pass through - and who have a vested interest in maintaining the area." Another significant aspect of the master plan is beautification of the plaza. "Today the plaza is cut off by buses turning around," said Weisz. "By creating views through to this improved multi-functional, flexible space - complete with an area for a greenmarket and vendor booths, a new entrance to the MetroNorth station and bus terminal with a café, and more seating and additional trees and plantings - we are transforming the plaza into a place that will appeal to residents, students, and commuters." The master plan also incorporates strong principles of sustainability. The proposed conceptual design for the structures on the plaza contains solar panels and a vertical wind turbine, as well as improved storm-water management, including a bioswale and the addition of a grove of trees and perennial plantings. "This proposed master plan not only addresses Fordham Plaza's current challenges; it solves the difficult issues and makes for a public space that will reinvigorate the neighborhood and enhance the experience for all those who use it," said Weisz.