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Design Review Board

Level 1: Minor alteration of an existing building/structure

6-B-15-DT

This proposal is for the asphalt surface only and does not include the additional concepts shown in the submittal. This project being completed in conjunction with a new drainage system planned for the alley, which includes tie in roof drains underground. There are two pavement pattern options shown at the top of the 'Conceptual Design' sheet and the board has been asked to provide observations for both. In both options the existing pavement pattern at the rear entrance (from Market Square) to the KUB building will be unchanged.

Historic Alley Pattern Option (1): A 3' strip of stained asphalt with a stamped cobblestone pattern in the center of the alley, and non-textured asphalt on either side.

'Movement Pattern' Option (2): Create a irregular stamped and stained pattern in the asphalt to mimic a stone path.

Location
Strong Alley

Between the 400 block of S. Gay Street and Market Square.

Applicant Request
This proposal is for the asphalt surface only and does not include the additional concepts shown in the submittal. This project being completed in conjunction with a new drainage system planned for the alley, which includes tie in roof drains underground. There are two pavement pattern options shown at the top of the 'Conceptual Design' sheet and the board has been asked to provide observations for both. In both options the existing pavement pattern at the rear entrance (from Market Square) to the KUB building will be unchanged.

Historic Alley Pattern Option (1): A 3' strip of stained asphalt with a stamped cobblestone pattern in the center of the alley, and non-textured asphalt on either side.

'Movement Pattern' Option (2): Create a irregular stamped and stained pattern in the asphalt to mimic a stone path.
Staff Comments
In an effort to take advantage of this opportunity to improve the aesthetics of Strong Alley, the City is interested in adding a decorative treatment to asphalt make the alley pleasing and inviting for pedestrians. This project will build from the efforts of artists and property owners that have decorated the walls of the alley with art. At a later date, the city plans to engage adjacent property owners about making further improvements to the alley, including but not limited to new lighting and entrance signage.

Applicable guidelines:

Section 1.A. (PUBLIC REALM AND PUBLIC BUILDINGS)
The public realm is composed of streets, sidewalks, and public open spaces. Public space is defined by development and supports a diversity of uses. It promotes transit use and pedestrian activity. It can be considered the outdoor room created by surrounding buildings.

Section 1.A.1. (PEDESTRIAN AND BICYCLIST SAFETY)
Consider pedestrians first, then transit, then the automobile in designing and developing downtown places. Public utilities and streetscape amenities should be located to support safe, convenient, and unimpeded pedestrian flow…

GUIDELINES:
1a. Prioritize pedestrian safety and comfort through public amenities, such as pedestrian-scale lighting, benches, and trash receptacles.
1b. Require sidewalks and crosswalks that are accessible to all and are aesthetically pleasing.
1c. Create standards for sidewalks (including size and materials) that establish a sense of visual continuity.
1k. Repair pavement surfaces (asphalt, brick, concrete, etc.) to original standards when underground utility or other repairs are necessary.
Applicant

City of Knoxville

Planning Staff
Mike Reynolds
Phone: 865-215-3827
Email: mike.reynolds@knoxplanning.org
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