More Density, More Nature
Tian Jin Eco-City, China
More density, more nature. To most, that would seem like a bit of a paradox. For RTP, that is one of our future goals.
We recognize that one of the most treasured assets of the Park is the unique, natural environment. By better utilizing the green space we have and increasing density, RTP will be able to foster increased community, energy, and dynamic collaboration in RTP. And, in short, create an environment where people are inspired to live, work, play, and learn.
Grimshaw Architects is one of the firms helping to conceive the Master Plan. The team members from Grimshaw are instrumental in helping RTP address the challenges of blending buildings and facilities together with the natural environment to create unique and physically beautiful spaces and places where collaboration and community can take place.
Hong Kong Science Park
Maybe it is because I dream of being an architect in my next life, or that I am enamored with all aspects of art history, but when the Grimshaw representatives present their findings in our meetings, I am immediately captivated. The marvel of these images is that the developments include a high level of density, while simultaneously showcasing a clear reverence for nature. We’re not sure what this mix of density and nature will look in RTP, but we have lots of best practices and models to draw from as the illustrations demonstrate.
Sonoma Mountain Village
We are currently wrapping up the findings process and are both excited and anxious to begin the plan development phase. The development phase is a four month process in which the consultants will begin to build a design scheme, develop cost estimates, and create business models for implementation. The direction that the consultants are moving towards as we enter this next phase is to redefine the Park’s relationship to the landscape and ecology, determine how to intensify through increased density, and how to create more clusters to better utilize our land.
As we examine the viability of a community nexus in RTP, one of the considerations will be the types of amenities that will be included in the center. What amenities would you like in the Park? An ampitheater? A town center? A coffee house? A microbrewery? A charter school? We’d love to hear from you!
Comments
Give us something to look at! Yes, the best practices you mention are great! RTP needs a design aesthetic and needs to push the boundaries of green design and technology. How about an eco-village:http://www.jetsongreen.com/2008/07/toyota-homes-lo.html. Or partnering with a national pre-fab company:http://www.jetsongreen.com/2008/07/toyota-homes-lo.html. Make RTP the company town of the 21st century! What about a cricket grounds, soccer stadium (MLS?), competitive mountain bike trails?
I somewhat agree with Duane. I’d like to see a “village” for services people in the park need. Banking (SECU, Wachovia etc), healthy/good food etc.
I’d also like to see a revamped busing system. I live 15 minutes from work (RTI) and it would take 1 hour and 20 minutes to get to work using the busing system.
However, above all I’d like to see the roads have a complete overhaul. It’s obvious growth is coming and the roads have lots of trouble, specifically cornwallis heading toward 55. That section is a nightmare during traffic. This may require working with the city to make that happen.
The point I disagree with Duane on is that I want people in RTP to be associated with RTP. Building a soccer stadium or cricket grounds doesn’t seem to be a good use of resources where additional day care or schools would meet the needs of employees. In fact I bet a new school that could benefit like the school on Centennial Campus (NCSU) does. It could be a charter school and wouldn’t require too much of a foot print.
As a resident of Davis Park, I have to say that RTP has the most potential of any Triangle community to become a true modern community – replete with rail transportation, pedestrian-friendly mixed-use communities like Davis Park, charter schools…(a Whole Foods or Fresh Market and other amenities will hopefully follow). I hope that more people will embrace the concept of living and working in the Park.
I would suggest that the PARK planners consider some of the BRAC or military consideration in the planning cycle. The health, training innovations, life enhancements, through diet, daily regualar activities, exercise, education and research, ie LIFEEXTENTION. http://www.lef.org
Our sons, daughters and adults serve this nation thru sacrific and service we should always respect who we are.
David
US Army Retired
Wow, thanks everyone for your comments and great ideas! Now is the time for RTP to think outside the box so we’re definitely taking note. As our Master Plan continues to develop, many common themes echo what we are hearing here: more amenities, transportation improvements, and a broader range of uses for RTP. We also appreciate the comments on the need to ensure the plans for the Park reflect industry trends and strengths we’re seeing across the Research Triangle region.
I recently posted about our Economic Impact Study, a companion piece to the Master Plan. Check that one out and look for more news in the coming weeks on where the Master Plan is heading.