Green 2 Green

Green 2 Green – an Urban Greenway
Nico Stearley + Anna Vasquez

The mission of the Urban Greenway is to provide an urban trail that generates vitality for the city of Tampa as it connects the surrounding communities to the environment. The Urban Greenway’s multi-modal path and green spaces will work as bio-swales that filter runoff from the Crosstown Expressway. The project will exploit the “wastelands” under the expressway by utilizing its neglected assets of shade, green spaces, and connectivity which ultimately has the capabilities to reach the McKay Bay Nature Park and Brandon to the east, and Ballast Point Park and the Friendship Bridge to Pinellas County westward.

The Urban Greenway is an alternative road that allows for the addition of green spaces and encourages the use of alternative transportation. We have focused on the following ingredients that make this a viable option for commuters throughout the city of Tampa.

Sustainability
The urban trail will create green spaces that are clean and responsible for the existing and future habitats. It encourages sustainability through the incorporation of native and adaptive plants and trees that reciprocally reduces the heat island effect which is concentrated in urban centers. Energy will be provided through renewable energy systems such as wind and solar, and the use of captured rainwater will reduce run-off and provide irrigation.

Connectivity
The Urban Greenway will facilitate a network of alternative transportation systems and offer a designated route. The incorporation of a No-Excuse zone centered in downtown Tampa (see exhibit 7) will encourage the mixed use of alternative modes of transportation and interconnect bikes, buses, rails, and water. Through the use of “complete streets” methodology, traffic will be calmer and easier to maneuver making the greenway safer when it intersects dense traffic.


Community
The multi-modal path will be used by walkers, runners, skaters, and cyclists of all ages and abilities to connect the cities communities and activity centers with a continuous and direct path. It will link the urban core to the surrounding neighborhoods, the historic districts of Hyde Park and Ybor City, and create looped routes with the Riverwalk and Bayshore Linear Park. The new residential pocket parks offer a sense of ownership and are opportunities for community gardens, playgrounds and dog parks.

Livability
This greenway will combine physical activity with the daily commute and provide a healthy option to our everyday routines which reduces the potential for illnesses associated with a sedentary lifestyle like cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Development of the land beneath the expressway will beautify the city and dramatically increase the green space within the urban core (see exhibit 3).

Economy
Along the Urban Greenway, economic opportunities within residential, commercial, and civic planning will prosper through increase exposure and connectivity. It will support a mix of uses such as cultural events, shopping, and exercise by a variety of people that include residents and tourist of Tampa.

The Urban Greenway is a sustainable artery into Tampa’s urban core and benefits the city with increased beautification. The urban trail connects neighborhoods, parks and green spaces, schools, entertainment, dining, and retail. The flat terrain and mild climate in Tampa is conducive for year-round use with shelter and shade provided by the expressway. It will be an asset to the residents, commuters, and tourists alike to navigate the various destinations that are in such close proximity to each other.