What is Better Block Perkins Overpass?
Better Block BR Perkins Overpass is a demonstration project that will temporarily transform two blocks of Perkins Road to showcase how street improvements, public spaces, culture and street life can improve community connection and local commerce. The demonstration is intended to promote multi-modal transportation infrastructure (transportation for all users, including pedestrians, bicyclists, motorists and transit riders of all ages and abilities), and business access that result in a vibrant neighborhood. The results will demonstrate a destination for people who may walk, bike, or take the trolley to Perkins Road Overpass.How do we demonstrate this?
We demonstrate what a more pedestrian-friendly destination can look like by addressing automobile and bicycle parking, landscaping, and crosswalk needs. To create an interactive atmosphere, we are installing artwork and a pop-up park. We are coordinating with businesses and various social clubs to capitalize on the Perkins Overpass as a destination by extending their business hours and hosting special events in the area respectively.Why are we doing this?
Perkins Road was identified in the FUTUREBR Comprehensive Plan for East Baton Rouge Parish as one of the first corridors that should apply a Complete Streets approach. This approach encourages streets designed for all users and all kinds of transportation.The demonstration project is a public engagement tool that used to create a temporary real-life and real-time way to see the possible infrastructure improvements to the area. It demonstrates the impact improved spaces can have on safety, sense of place, and businesses. This demonstration will engage a broad range of people who may otherwise not be involved in city planning and implementation decisions, capture their collective feedback based on real life interaction, and deliver that feedback to policymakers and elected officials.
Where is this exactly?
Perkins Road--under the overpass and between Christian Street and Cedardale Avenue. Better Block Perkins Overpass Map |
When is Better Block Perkins Overpass?
The event will take place on April 23th and 24th, 2016, with activities planned throughout the weekend.Who is involved in Better Block Perkins Road Overpass?
The Better Block Perkins Overpass is hosted by the Office of the Mayor-President, City of Baton Rouge, Parish of East Baton Rouge, the city-parish Department of Transportation and Drainage, Greater Baton Rouge Association of REALTORS®, and Center for Planning Excellence. Other sponsors, donors, and partners are listed below.Hosts
- Mayor's office of the City of Baton Rouge - Parish of East Baton Rouge
- Department of Transportation and Drainage
- Center for Planning Excellence
- Credit Bureau of Baton Rouge Foundation (CBBR)
- Greater Baton Rouge Association of REALTORS®
- National Association of REALTORS®
- BREC
- elbow/room
- ELS Landscape Architecture Studio
- Garden District Nursery
- Guy J. Hymel III, Inc.
- Louisiana Master Gardeners
- Mid City Redevelopment Alliance (MCRA)
- Mid City Studio
- Trader Joe's
- Whole Foods
- WRKF
Partners
- LSU's Geaux BIG volunteer program
- Varsity Sports
- Bike Baton Rouge
- Baton Rouge Moms Demand Safe Streets
- Special thanks to the Perkins Overpass businesses and area residents for their support (please see the Activities tab for a list of participating businesses)