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WALNUT STREET FUNCTIONAL PROGRAMMING

SEPTEMBER 2011

Prepared by: Genus Landscape Architects

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Project Overview 04

Evolution of Walnut Street 05

Existing Conditions along Walnut Street 06

The Future of Walnut Street 08

The Potential for Walnut Street 09

The Participatory Process 16

Block-Specific Functional Programming 17Preferred Option

Next Steps 25

Appendix 28


FUNCTIONAL PROGRAMMING

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WALNUT STREET

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COURT AVENUELOCUST STREET

GRAND AVENUE

The purpose of this report is to document the process undertaken by the Downtown Community Alliance, the City of Des Moines and Genus Landscape Architects to prepare a stakeholder-supported workable program for the redesign and reconstruction of Walnut Street. Project goals include:

• Define how Walnut Street should operate in the future;

• Determine what functions can and should be accommodated within the limited Walnut Street right-of-way;

• Engage the private sector and generate excitement for future investment;

• Find consensus on a preferred program, which will inform subsequent design phases.

The project progressed through a series of workshops with the City Departments, stakeholders, property owners and representatives from Operation Downtown. Varied programming options illustrating Walnut Street’s potential were presented during the workshops. Attendee input regarding opportunities and constraints, future development, maintenance and safety was solicited and considered in an effort to develop a preferred program. A written survey was also used to support the programming of Walnut Street and to verify attendee comments and preferences. This report completes the project’s process and closes with a workable program supported by the team, the City of Des Moines and the stakeholders. Throughout the process, all involved recognized Walnut Street’s potential to become an active, pedestrian-oriented street that can play a major role in the revitalization of downtown Des Moines’ retail and office core.

Program study area from 2nd Street to 10th Street

PROJECT OVERVIEW

The City of Des Moines, Operation Downtown, Downtown Community Alliance, and local property owners are working together to plan for the replacement of the transit mall with a new pedestrian-oriented street. The intent is to design and operate the ‘new’ Walnut Street in a manner that would attract retail, restaurant, and entertainment uses to its main-floor storefronts and begin a new revitalization effort in the Downtown Core.

DART’s new transit hub, to be located on Cherry between 6th and 7th Streets, is scheduled to open in fall 2012. At that time, the current use of Walnut Street as a transit mall will become obsolete, availing Walnut Street to a transformation.

WALNUT STREET RECONSTRUCTION PROJECT

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THE EVOLUTION OF WALNUT STREET

Walnut Street has taken on varied forms over the last century. In the early 1900’s there was two-way traffic with parallel parking along both sides of the street and an on-street trolley. Downtown Des Moines street life flourished in the first half of the century with a variety of uses and merchants. The street trolley was phased out in the early 1950’s. During the late 1950’s, a shift was made to one-way traffic, westbound, with parallel parking along both sides of the street. (images below courtesy Drake Library)

Today, the Walnut Street Transit Mall’s bus traffic dominates the corridor. There is limited

1911; Walnut Street at 4th; viewing west

1960s; Walnut Street; viewing westDate unkown; Walnut Street at 5th

automobile circulation (vehicles are allowed along Walnut Street between the hours of 6:00 pm and 6:00 am). There is no on-street parking, with the exception of a drop-off adjacent to The Plaza condominiums between 3rd and 4th Street.

The current transit mall was constructed in 1985 and has outlived its usefulness. DART’s new transit hub, DART Central Station, is currently under construction at Cherry Street, between 6th and 7th Street. The new hub will replace the Walnut Street transit mall and is expected to open in late 2012.

For over 100 years, Downtown was the traditional retailing center of Des Moines; and Walnut Street was its traditional retailing street. Both the Younkers and JC Penny department stores, which dominated retailing in Des Moines, were located on Walnut Street. Surrounding them were a host of independent retailers and junior department stores, such as Kresge’s and Woolworths.


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EXISTING CONDITIONS ALONG WALNUT STREET Walnut Street hosts a mixture of retail/restaurant, residential, and cultural land uses, but is predominantly lined with office use at the ground floor. There is a significant amount of vacant square footage at the ground floor and upper levels, previously occupied by department stores retail establishments, and large corporate tenants.

Notable buildings within the study area include the Civic Center of Greater Des Moines, the Fleming Building and Kirkwood Hotel and Lounge. The Civic Center complex defines the northeast edge of the study area. The Fleming Building, located at 6th and Walnut, was designed by Daniel Burnham and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Kirkwood has seen renewed use through a restaurant, a lounge, and conversion into condominiums.

Buildings with vacancies at the first floor to potentially activate the street include: Younkers Building, The Hub, The Kaleidoscope, the Hubbell Building, US Bank, EMC’s commercial building west of their tower and the Wells Fargo Skyview Building.

Existing successful sidewalk cafes include Big City Burger and Panera Bread.

In its current configuration, Walnut Street is closed to automobile traffic during the hours of 6:00am - 6:00pm Monday through Friday and 6am - 12:00 pm on Saturday. During these hours, the transit mall operates and generates a significant amount of bus traffic and the associated bus rider activity. There is no on street parking within the study area, with the exception of a drop off zone at The Plaza.

Existing Materials. An inventory of existing conditions reveals deteriorating brick paving, failing, outdated lights, and an inconsistent landscaped edge.

Skywalks. The skywalk system crosses overtop of Walnut Street in seven locations within the project study area:

East of Third Street

East of Fourth Street

West of Fourth Street

Betweeen Fifth Street and Sixth Street

West of Sixth Street

Between Seventh Street and Eighth Street

Between Ninth and Tenth.

Additional information regarding skywalk access points and routing is available from the City of Des Moines Engineering Department.

Right-of-Way. The existing right-of-way is 66’ wide.

Poor Soils. During pre-transit mall investigations, poor soils were found within the study area. As a result, the entire R.O.W. was capped with reinforced concrete. Additional information can be located in the Environmental Assessment of the Walnut Street Transit Mall, 1984.

Traffic Signalization. Existing wires for traffic signalization are failing and likely will need to be updated as part of future streetscape improvements.


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Subsurface utilities diagram

Existing Ginkgos between 5th and 6th (courtesy genus)

Existing Honeylocust in planters between 8th and 9th(courtesy genus)

12’ 12’Street Lights. Intermediate-height globe lights currently illuminate Walnut Street. There are 10 to 12 lights per block. Pedestrian in scale, the lights are approximately 12’ in height with a concrete bollard base and a black metal pole. Light placement is consistent throughout the study area at approximately 40’ on center, opposite in layout. East of 5th, there are a few roadway lights with banner-adapted poles.

Further review of their wiring, efficiency, fixture replacement options, and overall design is recommended during subsequent planning phases.

Street Trees and Planters. The study area lacks a unifying street tree planting. The existing trees are of varying types and sizes, at irregular spacing and planting details differ (cut-outs at-grade versus in planters). Tree types include Tilia, Gleditsia triacanthos, Ginkgo biloba, Acer spp. and Quercus spp. Tree health varies widely and review by an arborist during subsequent design phases is recommended. Due to the poor soils within the study area, the majority of the trees along the south side of the street, west of 5th, have been planted in concrete planters. The planters are 30” tall and ten feet in diameter.

Transit Shelters. There are currently eight transit shelters within the study area. Further collaboration with DART representatives is underway regarding the future of buses along Walnut Street.

Sub-Surface Utilities. There is a 60” sewer line (location and depth varies) and a 20” water line (location and depth varies) running beneath Walnut Street. The street currently drains to the center.


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THE FUTURE OF WALNUT STREET

This section provides a review of current or recent planning documents affecting the future of Walnut Street.

Tram Study. The Downtown Des Moines Tram Feasibility Study was completed in August 2009. The document recommended “the transformation of Walnut Street from a somewhat under used transit mall into the activity and mobility spine of downtown. This would be accomplished through major streetscape improvements, retail development, increased skywalk access, and most importantly, a tram.”

Downtown Bicycle Master Plan. The current Downtown Bicycle Master Plan identifies the following along Walnut Street:

• Automobile and bicycle shared lanes west of 8th Street;

• On-street bicycle lanes east of 8th Street

The team discussed the tradeoffs associated with dedicated bicycle lanes along the limited Walnut Street R.O.W. with the City representatives and came up with the following option:

• On-street bicycle lanes from the Principal Riverwalk to 3rd Street;

• Shared lane markings west of 3rd Street

DART. The entire transit system in Greater Des Moines is being re-evaluated during the development of a new regional transit plan – DART Forward 2035. The plan is slated for completion in the fall of 2011 and will serve as a guide for growing the transit system over the next 25 years. The plan will explore different options for rapid transit such as express bus, bus-rapid transit or lightrail for a main corridor within the transit system.

Proposed DART transit hub (image courtesy DART)

DART Central Station is currently under construction and scheduled for completion late in 2012. This facility will eliminate the need for the current transit mall on Walnut Street.

Nollen Plaza. Nollen Plaza is the exterior component of the Civic Center complex and is a one block square park with a tree-lined grassy area along its Walnut Street frontage. Landscape Architect Ken Smith is re-designing Nollen Plaza to serve as a focus for downtown Des Moines and to accommodate a wide range of events and uses. The opportunity also exists to expand the Saturday morning farmer’s market into the rebuilt Nollen Plaza. The timetable for the project is still in discussion.

World Food Prize. At the eastern edge of the study area, the century-old Des Moines Library is under restoration and will become the home of the World Food Prize, to be known as the Dr. Norman E. Borlaug Hall of Laureates. The museum will recognize great achievements in agriculture and will be open to the public. The plans include a large garden which will become a centerpiece of the Des Moines Riverwalk and will contribute to the revitalization of Walnut Street.


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THE POTENTIAL FOR WALNUT STREET

Recognized as one of the most urban streets in Des Moines, there is tremendous potential to create a vibrant pedestrian-oriented environment along Walnut Street. With its consistent building frontage and daytime worker population, a unique, responsive program for Walnut Street could make a major contribution toward the revitalization of the core and could help attract and support new development.

Walnut Street can become a successfully revitalized street, like Third Street Promenade in Santa Monica and Stephen Avenue in Calgary, if it is able to create a strong drawing power and its own unique identity. It will not succeed, however, if it cannot differentiate itself from East Village and the Court District. These Downtown neighborhoods have established their own successful market niches; direct competition with them would be harmful to all three districts and the Downtown as a whole.

The new Walnut Street must be more ‘urban’ and ‘contemporary’ than the Historic East Village. With all the high-rise office buildings surrounding it, this characterization should not be difficult to achieve.

The new Walnut Street must also be more ‘refined’ than the ‘gritty’ Court District. It should have more restaurants than bars, and appeal to an older market niche than Court Avenue.

The new Walnut Street must take advantage of its linearity to create a unique pedestrian walking environment, where sidewalk cafes set the scene.

A brief review of some of the most successful street environments around the world reveal shared characteristics:

• Great streets are destinations – there are many reasons to be on the street and people come, linger and return;

• Programmed activities such as cultural events, open-air markets, and festivals are scheduled;

• The streets accommodate many different types of users;

• They foster a sense of local identity;• First floor uses flow in and out and activate

the street;• Their design includes distinct site amenities;

and• They are clean, safe and well maintained.

Successful streets become neighborhood amenities and attract residents and tourists alike. They add vitality to the area and promote local economic development.

In many instances, successful streets require an Agency commitment, they challenge local standards and involve the contributions from property owners and community stakeholders.

3rd Street Promenade, Santa Monica (courtesy genus)


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The Program Elements. The team identified possible functions for Walnut Street and defined their minimum spatial requirements.

• Two-Way Traffic, 12’ wide travel lanes• One-Way Traffic, 12’ wide travel lane• Parallel Parking, 9’ x 22’ and 9’ x 24’ at end

spaces • On-Street Bicycle Lanes, 5’ wide • Café Zone, 9’ wide • Walkway, minimum 7’• 12’ Travel lanes could allow existing curbs to

remain Base Assumptions: All Components. If all of the possible functions are included, a right-of-way width of 84’ is required. Because of Walnut Street’s limited right-of-way width at 66’, there are functional choices to be made and tradeoffs between competing uses to consider.

Base Assumptions: Within ROW. Travel lane(s) and space for pedestrian movement along the building frontages were identified as the minimum programmatic requirements for Walnut Street. Together, these two functions require 36’ of the available 66’ right-of-way, leaving 30’ of the street open for programming. Therefore, the fundamental issue at stake with the project is how to allocate this 30’ of space.

Based on the assumptions and available right-of-way, five programming options were prepared and are discussed in the next section. These include:• Maximize Parking• Combination• Downtown Plan• Maximize Pedestrian• One-way Traffic Option


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Programming Options. Maximize Parking

• Two-way traffic is proposed and parking is maximized within the study area.

• On-street parking is offered along both sides of the street thus minimizing the amount of

space allocated to pedestrian-related uses. Sidewalk cafes are not feasible due to the narrow sidewalk.

• Bicyclists share the vehicular travel lane.

“Maximize Parking” Plan and SectionWALNUT STREET


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Programming Options. Combination

• Eliminate parking at select areas and replace with pedestrian-oriented uses.

• Offer intersection corner bulbs, thus making it easier for pedestrians to cross the street, slow traffic and provide extra visibility to pedestrians.

• The intersection corner bulbs provide additional space for pedestrian activity.


WALNUT STREET“Combination” Plan and Section


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Programming Options. Downtown Plan

• An enlarged pedestrian zone (21’ wide) is proposed along the north side of street for sidewalk cafes, seating clusters, landscape zones and other pedestrian activities.

• On-street parking is proposed along the south side of the street.


“Downtown Plan” Plan and SectionWALNUT STREET


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Programming Options. Maximize Pedestrian

• Sidewalks at 16’ width are offered along both sides of the street.

• Separate, on-street bicycle lanes are offered along the length of the study area.

“Maximize Pedestrian” Plan and Section

• On-street parking is not offered.

WALNUT STREET


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Programming Options. One-Way Traffic

• Sidewalks at 17-18’ width are offered along both sides of the street.

• A 10’ wide bicycle lane is proposed at sidewalk level.

“One-way Traffic” Plan and SectionWALNUT STREET

• On-street parking is offered along one side of the street.


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THE PARTICIPATORY PROCESS

Stakeholder Meeting #1. The first of two stakeholder meetings was held June 7, 2011 at the offices of Downtown Community Alliance. The team presented project goals and programming options. A discussion followed and the stakeholders offered thoughts about how Walnut Street could function in the future. Similar goals emerged: • Stakeholders would like to see a greater

automobile presence in the form of two way traffic;

• Some parking at each block; • An active pedestrian environment; and• Attendees felt achieving a specific quantity

of parking is unnecessary, rather, that there is the ‘perception’ that parking is offered along Walnut Street.

Survey + Survey Results. Written surveys were distributed during the first stakeholder meeting. The purpose of the survey was to measure attendee preferences regarding the optional programs, rank proposed functions, and to better understand the desired vision for Walnut Street. A copy of the survey and the full survey results are included in the Appendix. A total of 29 persons responded.

Stakeholder Meeting #2. The second meeting was held July 7, 2011 at the offices of Downtwon Community Alliance. The team discussed findings and survey results. A block-specific functional program for the study area was presented. Full meeting minutes from the July 7 meeting are included in the Appendix.

Attendees responded favorably to the block-specific program. Discussion with the attendees included the following topics:

• Inquiries regarding improvement plans for the Younkers building and the Fleming Building.

• Plans for the closure of Walnut Street for events. Considering the opportunities with

Nollen Plaza and possible links to the Farmer’s Market, closure of Walnut Street from 3rd to 5th was preferred.

• Development of the program during upcoming design phases will consider the location of the existing curb. And, future design studies will be based on a site survey in lieu of an aerial survey.

• Locating the sidewalk cafes adjacent to the building rather than at the curb. As a result, the owners are better able to regulate diners, there is less impact on pedestrian circulation along the sidewalk, and less perimeter fencing is required. Additionally, tables adjacent to buildings are compliant with City requirements to obtain a license for serving alcohol outdoors.

What We Learned…• Two-Way Traffic Preferred.• Generally, The Downtown Plan Preferred.• Offer ‘Some’ Parking in Every Block.• Pedestrian-Oriented Street Desired.• Designate Shared Travel Lanes for Bicyclists

West of 3rd Street.• Buses – Further Collaboration Underway.• Consider Closing Walnut Street Between

3rd-5th for Events.


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PREFERRED OPTION BLOCK-SPECIFIC FUNCTIONAL PROGRAMMING

• Intersection corner bulbs to accommodate outdoor dining or other pedestrian activity. Intersection corner bulbs also increase pedestrian safety, making street crossing safer. The intersection corner bulbs are sized at 50’-75’ in length.

• Opportunities at the enlarged pedestrian realm include sidewalk cafes, vendors and carts, clustered seating, public artwork, enhanced paving, and landscape zones.

• An enlarged pedestrian realm that alternates across the north and south sides of the street. The enlarged pedestrian realm responds to the built environment by supporting existing pedestrian activity or where the potential for increased pedestrian activity exists.

• Specific stakeholder requests for parking and/or an enlarged pedestrian realm.

2nd Avenue to 3rd Street . On-Street Bicycle Lanes, Parking Spaces for Civic Center Ticket Pick-Up


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3rd Street to 4th Street

• Enlarged pedestrian realm along north side of Walnut Street supports future redesign of Nollen Plaza and links the Farmers’ Market and Nollen Plaza.

• On-street parking spaces along the south side at The Plaza offer pick-up/drop off spaces for the residential units as well as some on-street parking for other Walnut Street uses.

• Potential for street closure during events.

• A consistent landscaped edge along the north side of Walnut Street complements and reinforces Nollen Plaza’s south grove and gardens.


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4th Street to 5th Avenue

• Identified as the prime event blocks. Potential for 4th and 5th Street closure during events. Proximity to Nollen Plaza and the Court Avenue Farmer’s Market.

• Continuity of wide sidewalk between 3rd and 6th would support events that require street closure.

• Along the south side, intersection corner bulbs afford space for pedestrian-related uses at Cuatro and at the Kirkwood Lounge.

• Proposed intersection corner bulb at Big City Burger supports existing sidewalk café.

CURRENT STREET LEVEL REDEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITY

LONG-TERM STREET LEVEL REDEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITY


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5th Avenue to 6th Avenue

• Enlarged pedestrian realm along the north side of the street at Kaleidoscope Mall.

• The wider sidewalk accommodates future pedestrian-related activities: sidewalk cafes, vendors and carts, clustered seating, and other uses.

• Intersection corner bulbs and on-street parking spaces are offered along the south side of the street at the US Bank and Wellmark Office Building.


LONG-TERM STREET LEVEL REDEVELOPMENT

OPPORTUNITYCURRENT STREET LEVEL

REDEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITY


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6th Avenue to 7th Street

• The representative from the Fleming Building specifically requested an enlarged pedestrian realm along the south side to support future first floor redevelopment opportunities.

• An enlarged sidewalk at the Hub Tower supports the activities associated with future retail/restaurants at the ground level.




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7th Street to 8th Street

• A wider sidewalk at the currently vacant Younkers building will support future redevelopment and could accommodate a variety of pedestrian-related activities.

• Some on-street parking is offered and intersection corner bulbs make street crossing safer for pedestrians.




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• Specific stakeholder request for an enlarged pedestrian realm along south side of street to support the potential for activities at Skyview Building.

• Specific stakeholder request for three parking spaces at south side of street.



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• Parking on north side of street for school activity.

• Generous +20’ wide pedestrian zone at south side to support existing outdoor dining uses at Panera.

• A consistent landscaped edge at the Walnut Street School buffers the school from street-related activities.


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NEXT STEPS

Buses Further collaboration with DART and the City of Des Moines representatives is underway. A range of bus-related comments was heard throughout the programming process: some like the resultant increase in pedestrian activity and others feel the bus environment is unsafe and should be removed from Walnut Street. There are other trade-offs and issues to consider and further discuss.

• Consistency of schedule and route preferred by DART.

• Street closure for special events becomes more difficult with bus traffic on Walnut Street.

• Parking spaces will need to be reduced to accommodate the bus stops.

• Does the noise from bus travel affect sidewalk café patrons?

• Impact on other streets, such as Grand and / or Locust.

• “New” Walnut Street needs to be markedly different from “Old” Walnut Street.

Finalize plans for Downtown bus networkDART is wrapping up its long-range plan and further collaboration between DART, CITY, and DCA is needed to resolve the way that Walnut Street will fit into this plan for Downtown bus service after the new transit hub is open.

Concept Design and Cost EstimatingThe proposed functional program provides a starting point for conceptual design, which is the next step in the process. The City of Des Moines is expected to hire consultants this fall to prepare a conceptual design with consultation from members of the public and the business community. The conceptual design process is expected to be completed in 2012.

While this document provides sound guidance and stakeholder buy-in on space allocation within the public right-of-way and appropriate activity

and character for Walnut Street’s transformation, the conceptual design should define the place-making elements such as materials, landscape, and furnishings. It should address aspects that will contribute to improved sustainability in downtown. Initial steps of the conceptual design could include a national consultant that would provide a broad perspective and expertise in urban redevelopment.

The conceptual design will also include an estimate of construction costs on a block by block basis. These estimates will provide the information necessary to begin a dialogue about how best to finance this major downtown public improvement project and how best to phase its implementation. This should be an iterative process, in which decisions on what to include in the proposed concept are influenced by the perceived benefits and costs of those elements to the private and public sector stakeholders who would be asked to pay for those elements.

The scope of the project should include study of the integrity and conditions of the subsurface conditions. The condition of the reinforced concrete ‘cap’ below the visible finishes currently on Walnut Street needs to be thoroughly understood before committing to investing in its replacement or, conversely, investing in new streetscape elements that reuse it. Conclusions on this issue will likely have a profound impact on construction costs and flexibility of design proposals. Additionally, conditions of the existing water, sewer, and electric utilities should be investigated.

The goal would be to have a conceptual design approved, a funding program agreed to, and a management/operating framework in place in time to allow for a construction start in Summer 2013.


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Funding and PhasingThe conceptual design process will include cost estimates for the reconstruction of Walnut Street. This information will help to facilitate a dialogue between the City of Des Moines and private property owners regarding the selection of design elements, their costs, cost-sharing, and the timing and phasing of reconstruction. While the City of Des Moines can be expected to be a contributor to the reconstruction of Walnut Street, we must also expect the private sector to contribute as well.

In the iterative process that we can expect to occur, we should see both parties focus on ‘value for money’ and ‘cost-benefit’ considerations. The concept of value in particular, will necessarily vary among the various public and private sector parties, but this healthy dialogue among investing partners should lead to good choices as to what should be included in the project to maximize public benefits and private investment potential, at a reasonable cost.

Timing and phasing will also need to be discussed and agreed upon. Some phasing should be expected, if only to control the amount of public investment made in any given year. And, some blocks should probably be developed before others if only because the need for, and the opportunity to effect, change is greater on them. It would not be appropriate, however, to prejudge the results of these discussions.

On-going OperationsIt would be a great waste of public and private resources if we spend millions of dollars to rebuild Walnut Street, and then, sit back and wait for something to happen. Walnut Street must be transformed into an ‘active’ street even before the storefronts are reoccupied. We must find ways to break the proverbial ‘chicken and egg’ syndrome. We must attract pedestrians (potential customers) to attract commercial operators.

There are a number of ways to accomplish this goal, including the following:

• By providing a new ‘walking street’ in the heart of the Downtown Core, pedestrian traffic will necessarily be increased. Many downtown office workers, who currently avoid Walnut Street, will be encouraged to use it as they walk from one destination to another.

• By offering special vending/entertainment opportunities on the street, we can demonstrate Des Moines’ capacity to support a ‘great walking street.’ A week-day market (similar to the one being offered in Western Gateway) and summer performances on the weekends (e.g. Saturday after the market or Saturday nights) could achieve this objective.

• By introducing ephemeral events such as

festivals, art installations or street performers that could attract patrons to Walnut Street and expose them to its permanent attractions and establishments.

• By maintaining Walnut Street to a (higher) standard, reflective of its intended intensity of use, we can convey a message about its importance to the community.

• By marketing Walnut Street as a destination (and delivering the promised experience), we can introduce the new Walnut Street to the people of Greater Des Moines.

Enhanced operations such as this require additional management and funding. The most appropriate operating model should also be explored in the conceptual design phase of this project.


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APPENDIX

Appendix / WALNUT STREET RECONSTRUCTION PROJECT

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6.2.2011 Meeting Minutes

MEETING MINUTES

PROJECT Walnut Street Functional Programming

DATE June 2, 2011

LOCATION Greater Des Moines Partnership

PRESENT Amy Lego, Operation DowntownErin Olson-Douglas, City of Des MoinesGary Fox, City of Des Moines Terry Vorbrich, City of Des MoinesBert Drost, City of Des MoinesBrett Douglas, GenusAngie Coyier, Genus

SUBJECT Coordination Meeting with Representatives from the City of Des Moines

DISCUSSION ITEMS

1. 0 City concerns / Issues

1.1 Sidewalks –GF disagrees with the base assumption width of 7’. City is in the process of revisiting the landscape guidelines for sidewalks. GF feels the planting beds are tripping hazards, create difficulties accessing adjacent on-street parking, and reduce much-needed walking area. GF feels the tree grates did not cause the street trees to fail.

1.2 Transit - Group questioned the assumption of removing transit from Walnut Street. Why not share transit with Grand and Locust? Transit stops result in removal of parking. If buses travel along Walnut Street, travel lane width would increase to 12’.

1.3 Bicycle Lanes - Alta Plan before the Council on 6/2/11. Along Walnut Street, the plan proposes 2 – 5’ wide bicycle lanes from 2nd Street to 8th Street and Shared Lane Markings from 8th Street westward.

1.4 Travel Speed - Per State code, speed of travel in a business district is 25 mph.

1.5 One-way Traffic - City (and Hubbell) feel the one-way traffic option is not a viable option.

325 EAST 5TH STREETDES MOINES, IA 50309

T 515 284 1010F 515 284 5050

WWW.GENUS-LA.COM

FUNCTIONAL PROGRAMMING /Appendix

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Walnut Street Functional ProgrammingStakeholder MeetingJuly 26, 2011Page 2 of 2

1.6 Parking - Per TV, “we always want two-way travel with some parking……likes the Downtown Plan option”. (Need initials of Bicycle Rep here) prefers “the enlarged sidewalk on the north side to enjoy the benefits of the sunshine.”

1.7 Options - EOD discussed parking buffers and suggested relocating the parking on the north side of the street, directly adjacent to the enlarged pedestrian zone in the Downtown Plan. Parking adjacent to the sidewalk cafes may also reduce jaywalking.

1.8 Adjacent Land Uses - EOD suggested Genus present uses compatible with specific sidewalk dimensions. For example the 12’ wide sidewalk zone works with retail uses and the 23’ wide zone complements restaurant uses.

1.9 Sidewalk Cafes - Group discussed the location of sidewalk cafes. If serving alcohol, café zone must be directly adjacent to building with secure perimeter. Genus to contact Laura Baumgarten (spelling?) with City Clerk’s office.

1.10 Drainage - GF feels the center drainage is ideal. (Walnut Street currently drains to the center of the street.)

1.11 Paving - GF discussed the “terrible problems” with the accent band paving at the street. The brick is breaking due to the heavy loads. GF feels the City still does not have a great paving solution.

1.12 Lighting - GF feels the current lighting system is horrible and needs total replacement. GF continued, “bad design, poor installation….the stuff below ground is worse than what’s above ground.

1.13 Signalization - GF feels “total replacement maybe not quite as essential….upgrade existing.”

1.14 Loading Trucks and Deliveries - During Wednesday’s stakeholder meeting, Genus needs to understand how and where deliveries take place. What are the options? Do we sign for loading trucks mid-block? Signing for loading trucks results in loss of parking revenue.

Minutes Prepared by Angie Coyier, Genus

cc: File Meeting Minutes


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MEETING MINUTES


DATE June 7, 2011


PRESENT Chris Panzi Hubbell Realty CompanyAmi Anderson Polk CountyMike Ludwig City of Des MoinesEllen Rynning US General Services AdminRick Greve US General Services AdminBruce Brawn City of Des Moines, Public Works Jake Christensen Fleming Building, NW HotelBill Elrath Civic CenterElizabeth Presutti DartErin Olson-Douglas City of Des MoinesGlenn Lyons Downtown Community AllianceAmy Lego Downtown Community AllianceBrett Douglas Genus Landscape ArchitectsAngie Coyier Genus Landscape ArchitectsDylan Jones Genus Landscape Architects

SUBJECT Functional Programming . Stakeholder Meeting #1

DISCUSSION ITEMS

1. 0 Introduction, Glenn Lyons, Downtown Community Alliance

1.1 The purpose of today’s meeting is to discuss functional programming options for Walnut Street.

1.2 The DART transit hub is under construction and is slated to open fall 2012.

1.3 Walnut Street design phase is projected for spring 2012.

1.4 The transit mall from 3rd street to 10th street will no longer be needed.

1.5 Today’s presentation will give an overview of options, discuss pros and cons of each option and allow for stakeholder feedback.325 EAST 5TH STREET

DES MOINES, IA 50309

T 515 284 1010F 515 284 5050

WWW.GENUS-LA.COM


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Walnut Street Functional ProgrammingStakeholder MeetingJune 7, 2011Page 2 of 5

2.0 Presentation, Brett Douglas and Angie Coyier, Genus

2.1 The focus of the study area is from 2nd street to 10th street.

2.2 The evolution of Walnut Street was described and historical imagery was presented. Images depict a vibrant night life in 1911, one-way travel lanes with parallel parking during the 1960s, and today’s transit mall operation dating from 1985.

2.3 Existing utilities have been considered and noted. In its current condition, Walnut Street drains to the center and a 48”/60” diameter storm sewer line runs beneath the centerline of the roadway.

2.4 During previous projects, poor soils were found beneath Walnut Street and a concrete ‘bridge’ was installed to cap the poor soils.

2.5 Renderings of the new DART transit hub were shown. Pros and cons of transit travel along Walnut Street were discussed. Some feel if transit travel is eliminated along Walnut Street, special events may be more easily programmed and there will be less vehicular noise. However, others feel bus stops and the associated increase in pedestrian activity result in a more vibrant street life.

2.6 A tram study was done a few years ago. At this time, trams will not impact the programming of Walnut Street.

2.7 The downtown bicycle plan by Alta was referenced. The plan shows shared bike lanes along Walnut Street west of 8th street and on-street bicycle lanes east of 8th street.

2.8 Precedent imagery was shown and characteristics of great streets were discussed.

2.9 The five programming options were presented and functional trade-offs of each were discussed within Walnut Street’s 66’ R.O.W.

3.0 Feedback from the Stakeholder Group

3.1 Genus asked the stakeholder group what their desire for parking is. Glen responded, saying on-street parking enhances the retail environment. Glenn described the loss of department and retail stores and commented on how restaurants work best when they have an outdoor café/seating zone. The group was asked to consider what the larger vision is for Walnut Street. As a restaurant district? Retail district? Two-way street?


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3.2 One stakeholder feels if curbside parking is offered along the street, the bicycle path should be eliminated for safety reasons.

3.3 There was little excitement or interest in the one-way traffic option. The group almost unanimously agreed that two-way travel is preferred.

3.4 The group would like the return of automobile traffic and for automobiles to have a greater presence along Walnut Street.

3.5 In terms of parking, most stakeholders were in favor of parking on at least one side of the street.

3.6 One stakeholder suggested the “downtown plan” option should be eliminated from consideration because it favors one side of the street more than the other.

3.7 One stakeholder noted that the use of Walnut Street changes from block to block.

3.8 On street parking is considered important. According to one stakeholder, “retail uses need parking and restaurants need space for outdoor seating.”

3.9 The combination option was discussed. The option offers some parking and some café zones. Some stakeholders wondered how it really looked/worked. Does it have enough parking? A stakeholder brought up the idea that giving visitors the perception that one couldfind a parking space along Walnut Street is what matters. Perhaps it isn’t so much about the quantity of parking spaces, but the idea that some parking is offered.

3.10 The downtown plan was discussed again. Some buildings lack ground floor retail uses and as a result, are less compatible with the 23’ wide pedestrian zone.

3.11 One stakeholder agreed with the idea of locating all of the parking along one side of the street.

3.12 One stakeholder feels the best option would be a blending of the “combination” and “downtown plan.” The street section could change in response to the uses in the adjacent buildings.

3.13 Current conditions along Walnut Street date from the 1985 study. Glen noted that the average life of a streetscape project is about 25 years, and then it is time to rebuild. City plazas share a similar life span with Nollen Plaza as a good example.

3.14 The topic of bus travel was revisited. There was little feedback from the group…one person voted for buses to be eliminated and another indicated they would be happy when the hub is relocated.


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3.15 Bus routes were discussed and the DART representative prefers consistency in the bus route with limited changes to schedules and bus stop locations. Regular street closures for events pose challenges for the transportation system. Week to weekend re-routing is not desirable.

3.16 What are the impacts if the buses are moved to Locust and/or Grand? Ridership needs a pattern for the majority of the year.

3.17 Street closure was discussed. It is difficult to close three to four blocks in a row; it’s easier to close one, possibly two blocks.

3.18 Regarding north-south bus travel, one stakeholder indicated that it would be desirable to keep 6th-7th streets open.

3.19 Meeting summary: two-way vehicular traffic is preferred with parking on at least one side of the street.

3.20 Funding and phasing: project will be completed in multiple phases. Where to start first?

3.21 Next meeting will be July 7 at 4pm in the same location, Greater Des Moines Partnership.

Minutes Prepared by Dylan Jones, Genus


4.0 Stakeholder Meeting 6/21/11

Attendees: Kate Cline, Capital SquareAmy Darr, Walgreens, Financial CenterJon Kurth, Wells FargoVictor Coleman, Wells FargoRyan Squire, NationwideChristopher Diebel, Orchestrate HospitalityGlenn Lyons, Downtown Community AllianceAmy Lego, Operation DowntownAngie Coyier, Genus Landscape Architects

4.1 AC reviewed the project intent, history of Walnut Street, existing conditions within the study area, and current planning projects affecting Walnut Street. The five programming options were presented. The presentation closed with a discussion of the functional trade-offs associated with each of the options.

4.2 Jon Kurth, Wells Fargo, questioned why the Downtown Plan shows enlarged pedestrian zone only on north side of street, could the enlarged sidewalk be on south side of street?


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4.3 Attendees prefer 2-way traffic and offering ‘some’ parking at each block.

4.4 Based on what team has heard, the One-way Traffic Option and the Maximize Pedestrian Option can be eliminated from consideration.

4.5 Attendees agree with the programming of the bicycle lanes asshared travel lanes.

4.6 Bus comments: JK feels “that it is better to show bus connections on other streets, bus travel on Walnut Street complicates things…..better to keep bus on Locust and Grand.” CD would like more time to think about the buses. Most in attendance felt that bus connections on 6th

and 7th should remain.

4.7 JK: Could team explore relationship between bus stops and entrance points into the skywalks?

4.8 Chris Diebel, Orchestrate, “after hearing JK’s comments, I’d like to shift my preferred option from the Downtown Plan to the Combination Plan.”

4.9 GL commented “the Downtown Plan from 5th to 8th, then shift to Maximum Parking option west of 10th street, near industrial uses.”

4.10 Kate Cline, Capital Square, “ We want parking along the north side near Capital Square”.

4.11 Perceptions of Walnut Street in its current condition: “dark and creepy” and “transit hubs make people feel unsafe.”

4.12 “Walnut Street feels really dark.” Discussion on how lighting can be used to make street feel more festive.

Minutes Prepared by Angie Coyier, Genus



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MEETING MINUTES


DATE July 7, 2011


PRESENT Ami Anderson Polk CountyMike Ludwig City of Des MoinesErin Olson-Douglas City of Des MoinesTerry Vorbrich City of Des MoinesRyan Squier NationwideJon Kurth Wells FargoGeorge Hartney Wells FargoMatt Anderson Knapp PropertiesChristopher Diebel Orchestrate HospitalityGlenn Lyons Downtown Community AllianceAmy Lego Downtown Community AllianceBrett Douglas Genus Landscape ArchitectsAngie Coyier Genus Landscape ArchitectsDylan Jones Genus Landscape Architects

SUBJECT Functional Programming . Stakeholder Meeting #2

DISCUSSION ITEMS

1. 0 Introduction, Glenn Lyons, Downtown Community Alliance

2.0 Presentation, Brett Douglas and Angie Coyier, Genus

2.1 An overview of work and things discussed to date was given.

2.2 Block by block programming was presented.

2.3 The presentation ended with a discussion on “festive retailing.” Glenn Lyons talked about this topic and emphasized the importance of first designing the street properly, then attracting good tenants; i.e. restaurants, etc.


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Walnut Street Functional ProgrammingStakeholder MeetingJuly 26, 2011Page 2 of 2

3.0 Feedback from the Stakeholder Group

3.1 Ryan Squier asked about the Younkers building and the status of someone occupying that space. Glenn Lyons responded that there is an interested party who is chasing financing.

3.2 Glenn Lyons noted that the Fleming building will be converted to residential, along with the Des Moines Building.

3.3 Erin Olson-Douglas inquired about which streets will be closed. GlennLyons responded that the street closures will happen in the “event blocks.” Currently these are drawn on the plan to exist from 5th Ave to 8th Street. Glenn Lyons said the streets should be designed to be able to be closed, i.e. roll a gate in place, change signage, bollards that would rise up, etc. This would allow for flexibility in the ability to close one block, or several blocks. Discussion was also raised regarding street closure near Nollen Plaza; this should be anticipated. Glenn Lyons also mentioned the way street closures are done in Calgary – they are closed when needed by working within the framework of a city policy.

3.4 Erin Olson-Douglas raised a question regarding consistency in the curb line. It was wondered if it would be easier to plan for events on closed blocks if the curb line did not change for parking.

3.5 Mike Ludwig asked if the design is working with the existing curb. Brett Douglas responded, saying the CAD line work used to create the programming plan is not highly accurate because it is based off of an aerial, but the future plan would attempt to work with existing curb alignment.

3.6 Michael Ludwig stated that good examples that show change in zoning are needed – examples of how things work. He mentioned that café zones, when on the street side/adjacent to curb, become problematic for restaurants that are serving alcohol, servers need to cross pedestrian traffic, etc. A fence/gate is also required, which may not be desirable. Glenn Lyons mentioned that fences can be good, just not when located adjacent to the curb.

3.7 Brett Douglas mentioned that the sidewalk widths in this programming study/layout are gracious, when compared to other areas in Des Moines.

3.8 Next steps: a draft report will be produced and circulated for feedback.

Minutes Prepared by Dylan Jones, Genus



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Stakeholder Survey

WALNUT STREET FUNCTIONAL PROGRAMMING STAKEHOLDER SURVEY June 8, 2011

In order to better understand your needs and use preferences we hope that you will take the time to fill out this questionnaire and return it to us before the end of today's meeting. Results will be provided during the July 7 workshop. 1. Please indicate your preferred option: ____ Maximize Parking Option ____ The Combination Option ____ The Downtown Plan ____ Maximize Pedestrian Zone ____ One-Way Traffic Option ____ None of the Above ____ Other – Please describe: _________________________________________ 2. Which of the following would you most like to see along Walnut Street?

(Rank in order: 1 = very important, 6 = least important) ____ Two-Way Travel ____ One-Way Travel ____ Parking ____ Bus Transit w/ Stops ____ Bicycle Lanes ____ Enlarged Pedestrian Zone for Sidewalk Cafes, Seating Clusters, Street

Trees, Vendors, Public Artwork and Other Pedestrian Amenities. 3. Regarding parking, which of the following best describes how much

parking you feel is needed along Walnut Street? ____ Maximize the Parking / Parking Both Sides of the Street ____ Some Parking – Balance Parking with Other Components ____ Parking Unnecessary ____ Other – Please describe: ________________________________________ 4. What is your vision for Walnut Street? 5. Additional Comments: Your name, Walnut Street address, and/or affiliation with Walnut Street:

_______________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________

Thank you for taking the time to help establish a vision for Walnut Street!

325 EAST 5TH STREET DES MOINES, IA 50309 T 515 284 1010 F 515 284 5050 WWW.GENUS-LA.COM w.genus-la.com


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Stakeholder Survey Results

WALNUT STREET FUNCTIONAL PROGRAMMING STAKEHOLDER SURVEY RESULTS July 7, 2011

WHAT WE’VE LEARNED… 1. Two-way traffic preferred. 2. Offer “some” parking in every block. 3. A pedestrian-oriented street is desired in the form of wider sidewalks,

sidewalk cafes, ‘something more than the standard street treatment’. 4. Designate “Shared Travel Lanes” for bicyclists. 5. The street’s functional program can change block-by-block. 6. Generally, the Downtown Plan is preferred, but attendees want to see

how the enlarged pedestrian realm can alternate across both sides of the street.

7. Buses – need more feedback.

SURVEY RESULTS 29 Responses Preferred Option (30%) The Downtown Plan

(24%) Maximize Pedestrian Zone (20%) Combination Plan (17%) Other (7%) One-Way Traffic Option (1%) Maximize Parking

SURVEY QUESTIONS Q1. Other – Please describe:

“Downtown Plan with 1-side parking alternating side of street”

“Maximize Parking and Downtown Plan mixed, vary appropriately, block-by-block”

“Mix of Downtown Plan, Max. Pedestrian and Combination”

“Green space, with sidewalks connecting the two sides of the street”

One respondent ranked: 1. The Downtown Plan 2. The Combination Option 3. Maximize Pedestrian Zone 4. Maximize Parking Option 5. One-Way Traffic Option

Q2. Which of the following would you most like to see along Walnut Street? (Rank in order: 1 = very important, 6 = least important)

1 Enlarged Pedestrian Zone for Sidewalk Cafes, Seating Clusters, Street Trees, Vendors, Public Artwork and Other Pedestrian Amenities

2 Two-Way Travel 3 Bicycle Lanes 4 Parking 5 One-Way Travel 6 Bus Transit with Stops

325 EAST 5TH STREET DES MOINES, IA 50309

T 515 284 1010 F 515 284 5050

WWW.GENUS-LA.COM


40


Q3. Regarding parking, which of the following best describes how much parking you feel is needed along Walnut Street?

0 - Maximize Parking / Parking Both Sides of the Street 17 - Some Parking – Balance Parking with Other Components 12 - Parking Unnecessary Other – Please describe: “there has not been parking for many years and it has worked out OK.”

Q4. What is your vision for Walnut Street?

“Walnut Street should be an easy-to-use thoroughfare for pedestrians and motorists alike. The traffic should be two-way to minimize confusion and promote travel along the road. Plans that balance the ability to develop pedestrian-friendly shopping, cafes and noise are ideal.”

“Urban street with active street level.”

“Open the street to all forms of traffic.”

“Pedestrian, bike friendly, two-way traffic with some parking and outdoor seating. Focus event space toward Nollen Plaza.”

“Open for evening activities.”

“More civilian traffic, more street level opportunities.”

“Great street – pedestrian”

“Enlarge pedestrian zone to allow for more retail on Walnut.”

“Attract more shops – places where people can afford to buy something and would enjoy shopping. Getting people out and interacting would be a great enhancement.”

“Return to street level activity, increase in retail uses, and improved traffic flow”

“Increased pedestrian travel and activity. Restaurants with street vending. Parking at least on one side of the street”

“I see the need for parking across at Younkers but not as much as at Financial Center”

“Make it an extension of Court Avenue”

“great sidewalk space where applicable and maximized parking along other parts of the street (west of 10th for example)”

“more shops and restaurants, less congestion of people waiting for buses, seating clusters”

“Pedestrian hub of downtown area, cafes/artwork/coffee/great place to meet, eat or enjoy sitting outdoors”

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“Research Denver, CO 16th Street mall – it is a great design and very popular. No cars or parking. Shopping, restaurants, sidewalk tables and chairs”

“No parking – make it a pedestrian area available to use for Farmer’s Markets, Art Shows, etc.”

“Cafes, entertainment, bus mall, bike traffic”

“Green space, with trees but no shrubs (for easier maintenance)”

“restaurants, shops, a mini Court Avenue”

“enhance DT environment – make it a place you’d want to gather. Encourage public transportation/eco-friendly transportation”

"pedestrian mall with weekday farmer's market. See Nicollet Mall in Minneapolis"

"would love to see a cafe/artsy venue"

Q5. Additional Comments

“A decision needs to be made regarding the desire for buses on the street with a commitment from the City on street closures.”

“For Civic Center, it would be particularly helpful to have Walnut parking area on north side of street, be designated 20 minute parking for ticket pick-up, to get that area OFF 3rd!”

“Might analyze distribution of sidewalk area and sidewalk area relative to parking and ground floor potential on various blocks”

“cut more trees down in Nollen Plaza. Improve elements for growth”

“increased lighting, style and concept in conjunction with other downtown areas – Nollen and Court Avenue”

“if you have parking, you will need to consider electric car charging stations”

“I don’t see any major benefit in allowing traffic along this stretch of Walnut Street. Drivers already bypass it due to bus usage/congestion”

“any parking should be short-term (2 hours or less)”

"Bike lane would be great. But add a plan to hook up with Gray's Lake path - making this pedestrian and bike friendly"

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