BRIDGING THE G.A.P.

Design Statement

The task for this course will be to create a multipurpose, mixed-use green corridor that incorporates all current and ongoing State, County, and City initiatives. The design will be done on a linear redevelopment district along the creek, emphasizing livability and tourism. The district will feature new buildings through infill operations and the adaptive reuse of existing structures for residential, retail, and hospitality purposes.

This project will also include designing a linear park that connects existing and proposed urban green spaces along the creek. Emphasis will be placed on strengthening the connection between both sides of the creek and downtown Cumberland to the east, as well as between the creek and the GAP Trail to the west. Wills Creek will serve as both a longitudinal and transversal connector, prioritizing access for pedestrians and cyclists for both recreational use and daily transportation. This goal will also be achieved by redesigning all infrastructures currently crossing the creek. Particular attention should be paid to the redesign of the creek's banks, which have been transformed into concrete hardscape protection walls.

Solutions will be created to beautify and green the concrete banks and bed of the spillway as much as possible, transforming it into the spine of the corridor. Work to will redevelop the corridor will be completed while preserving the rich heritage of historic buildings and landmarks.

Inventory and Analysis

Cumberland is a city located in the western part of Maryland, in the United States. It sits in Allegany County, near the borders of West Virginia and Pennsylvania. Geographically, Cumberland is nestled in the Appalachian Mountains, which gives it a scenic, mountainous backdrop.

Site History

Early History and Settlement (-1700s)

Cumberland was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Shawnee and Seneca who often would spend summers in the area to hunt in fish, Wills Creek was originally known as Caiuctucuc. European settlers began arriving in the mid-1700s, renaming the area Will's Creek, after a local chieftain. In 1754, the Virginia Colony established a trading post and fort at the site of present-day Cumberland.

Growth as a Transportation Hub (1800s-1900s)

Cumberland's real growth began with the construction of the National Road, which was authorized by Congress in 1806. This road connected Cumberland to the rest of the country and became a vital route for westward expansion. In the 1820s, the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal (C&O Canal) was constructed, further cementing Cumberland's importance as a center of commerce, connecting the city to D.C.

In the 1840s, the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad (B&O) established a rail line through Cumberland, turning the city into a key stop on the nation's growing railroad network. This fueled the city's industrial growth.

Flooding and Control (1900s-1950s)

Throughout the early 20th century, Wills Creek experienced frequent and devastating floods, causing significant damage to the surrounding neighborhoods. Due to Cumberland's importance as a vital transportation hub, substantial measures were taken to address these recurring disasters. In the mid-20th century, an $18.5 million flood control project was initiated, which involved paving the creek, installing high retaining walls, and developing an advanced plumbing system to manage the water flow and prevent future flooding.

20th Century and Beyond (1950s-)

As industry declined in the mid-20th century, Cumberland underwent economic changes. The closing of many local coal mines and the shift away from manufacturing led to economic struggles in the latter half of the century. The city has focused on revitalizing its economy through tourism, arts, and culture.

Inventory

Location

The area of focus within Cumberland is Wills Creek and it’s adjacent neighborhoods and significant buildings.The creek has been channelised and no longer features any natural elements between the Narrows and the Potomac River.

Official Zoning Map

The project area primarily falls within the central business district, gateway commercial, and gateway industry zoned areas providing flexibility in later design decisions.

Demographics

Cumberland has a lower income and house price than the rest of the state. The numbers of the state are likely increased because of major metropolitan areas such as the outer DC area and Baltimore. The lower house price could prove attractive to people looking to move to the state and because of Cumberlands location to other busy areas. The city has less than 1% of the states population while Allegany county has roughly 1.1% of the population.

Income Areas

Most of Cumberland can be categorized as low-income areas. Low-income areas notoriously have less access to vital resources and infrastructure. Expanding these resources will be a large goal of the project, while also trying to balance the displacement of people regarding the new infill.

Parks and Public Greenspace

Increase access to greenspace within the city, especially, along the barren Wills Creek district, allowing for more residents to have easy access and reap the associated physical and mental benefits.

Floodplain

Expand stormwater infrastructure to combat flood events and minimize the potential damages through green infrastructure and best management practices.

Parcel Map

There is an assortment of underused or government owned parcels along the creek. These properties are prime real for developing a green corridor along the creek.

Section Across Wills Creek.

Mechanic Street, Looking North
Street that runs parallel to the western side of the site. Many buildings maintain their original main street facades though have aged. The facade is broken by new construction or parking lots where historic structures used to be.

Master Planning

Floor-Area-Ratio

Currently, the focus area consists of a variety of low density single family housing, small businesses, and a few light industrial complexes. The redesign of the area added a variety of more family housing, mixed-use buildings, and removed the industrial complexes. Overall, the entire district is more dense and diverse while also providing more greenspace and access to recreation.

Housing Types

Another goal of this infill project is to increase the availability of middle-density housing types within Cumberland, providing a balanced approach to addressing housing shortages and promoting sustainable development. The project aims to introduce a variety of housing options, such as townhomes, duplexes, and low-rise apartment buildings, to bridge the gap between single-family homes and high-rise developments. This middle-density strategy will help accommodate growing populations, reduce urban sprawl, and make more efficient use of available land. In doing so, the project seeks to enhance neighborhood vitality, improve walkability, and provide affordable housing options for families and individuals of varying income levels, all while maintaining a sense of community and minimizing environmental impact.

Early Concepts

A major challenge in the redevelopment was creating a lateral connection across the creek, particularly due to the wall that divided the two sides. To establish a visual connection and bridge the gap, terracing was introduced to naturally manage intense rainwater events. On the Mechanic Street side, the wall was reduced to 4 feet in height, with a 3-foot raised pathway alongside it.

Built Environment

The project aims to thoughtfully preserve the integrity of both historic and newer buildings while removing older, deteriorating structures. Landmark buildings, valued for their architectural significance and cultural heritage, were incorporated into the new development, maintaining the character and history of the area. Older, more dilapidated buildings that had become structurally unsafe or impractical were removed to make way for new, well-designed structures. This approach ensures a harmonious blend of the old and new, preserving the area's heritage while creating a safer, more vibrant environment for residents and visitors.

Wills Creek

Community Garden

Growing a Stronger Community

Originally envisioned as a farm-to-table restaurant, this project was reimagined into a community-focused space that directly serves the surrounding neighborhood. Centrally located within the city, it offers easy access to fresh, healthy food for anyone within walking distance. The gardens not only nourish individuals but also foster community growth.

One significant challenge with this space is that the property is currently covered by a layer of asphalt, making it difficult to grow produce directly in the soil. To address this, raised beds have been introduced at an accessible height, enabling everyone in the community to participate in gardening.

Another challenge is Cumberland's climate. While the warmer months are ideal for growing a variety of vegetables, the long winters can slow down production. To overcome this, several solutions are being implemented: a greenhouse to start seedlings earlier in the spring, tunnels to extend the growing season into early winter, and the practice of overwintering certain crops like carrots, which can be harvested after the final thaw.

To the left is a chart outlining the major plant families and some of their most popular vegetables. This chart serves as a valuable tool for planning crop rotation, which helps maintain soil health and prevent pest buildup. Below is a garden section that shows one year of crop rotation within a section of the garden.

Example Crop Rotation

Winter

Summer

Spring

Fall

Northern Sites

Bike Park

The bike park offers various tracks and activities for all user types as well as providing much-needed access to recreational opportunities. A few alternative benefits include promoting physical activity, social engagement, and environmental sustainability. The park's diverse range of tracks, from beginner-friendly paths to challenging trails for advanced riders, ensures that people of all skill levels can enjoy cycling in a safe and supportive environment. This inclusivity encourages individuals and families to get outdoors, stay active, and improve their health while providing a space for cyclists to connect and share their passion for the sport. The bike park also works to attract people riding on the GAP trail, stopping and spending some time in the city. Furthermore, the park fosters a sense of community, as it becomes a gathering place for riders to socialize, attend events, and participate in educational programs. With well-maintained, nature-integrated trails, the park promotes environmental awareness and stewardship, benefiting both the local ecosystem and the well-being of residents. Overall, the bike park enhances quality of life by offering recreational, fitness, and environmental opportunities for all ages

Perspective

Taken from the start ramp

Reroute

The railroad and GAP Trail were reoruted to make way for the new terracing along Wills Creek.

Housing Development

Incorporating key goals from the Smart Growth America initiative, this redevelopment serves as a model for how small cities like Cumberland can integrate diverse housing options into their urban fabric. By offering a variety of housing types beyond single-family homes and traditional apartments, residents gain greater flexibility to choose a home that best fits their needs and budget. The development also embraces denser buildings, allowing for more efficient use of space while creating additional room for public areas and communal amenities.

The inclusion of live/work buildings create multifunctional spaces that blend residential, commercial, and office uses, further enhancing the city's vibrancy and functionality. The proximity to the pedestrian corridor also allows residents to easily access other parts of the city and connect to the Great Allegheny Passage, enhancing mobility and outdoor recreation options.

Courtyard Apartments

Southern Sites

Terraces

Adding terracing along a channelized riverbank will greatly improve stormwater management by slowing the flow of runoff and promoting water absorption into the soil. The terracing will create a series of natural steps along the bank, reducing the velocity of stormwater, which helps to prevent erosion and minimize sedimentation in the river. This approach not only improves water quality but also restores the natural hydrology of the area, enhancing the river's ability to handle heavy rainfall and storm events. Additionally, incorporating a boardwalk for pedestrians along the terraces will promote river revitalization by providing public access to the waterfront, encouraging community engagement with the environment. The boardwalk allows people to enjoy the natural beauty of the river while providing a safe and sustainable way to access the terraced areas. Together, the terraces and boardwalk support Best Management Practices (BMPs) for stormwater, helping to filter pollutants and enhance the ecological health of the river. This integrated approach fosters environmental stewardship, community connection, and long-term sustainability in managing both stormwater and river health.

Boardwalk Construction Document

Helical pile support systems offer numerous benefits for boardwalk construction, providing a durable and environmentally friendly solution. These piles are screwed into the ground and offer stability without the need for extensive excavation or concrete pouring, which minimizes disruption to the surrounding environment. Helical piles are particularly effective in areas with soft or unstable soils, as they provide a strong foundation that can withstand heavy loads and shifting conditions. This makes them ideal for boardwalks built in wetlands, marshes, or areas prone to flooding. Over time, helical piles are resistant to corrosion and decay, ensuring long-term reliability and reducing the need for maintenance.

Cantilever retaining walls offer numerous benefits in construction and landscape design by providing strong, durable support without the need for deep foundations or extensive excavation. The cantilever design utilizes the weight of the wall itself to resist the pressure of the soil behind it, making it an efficient solution for stabilizing slopes, preventing soil erosion, and managing changes in elevation.

Perspective

Taken from a lower terrace looking away from the river

Plant Palette

The selection of plants for our rain garden was carefully chosen to ensure both functionality and aesthetic appeal. We prioritized native plants, as they are well-adapted to the local climate and soil conditions, requiring less maintenance while supporting local wildlife and pollinators. The plants selected are capable of handling the fluctuating moisture levels typical of a rain garden, with species that thrive in both wet and drier conditions. Deep-rooted grasses, vibrant flowering perennials, and hardy shrubs were included to improve water absorption, reduce runoff, and prevent soil erosion. These plants also serve the important role of filtering pollutants from stormwater, improving water quality, and promoting biodiversity. The mix of plants was designed to create a visually striking landscape while supporting the ecological goals of the garden, ensuring it is both functional and beneficial to the surrounding environment

Water Levels

Removing the concrete channelization of the creek and implementing new terracing along its bank will significantly improve the management of stormwater while enhancing the natural beauty and ecological health of the area. The previous concrete structure, which directed water flow too quickly and worsened erosion downstream, will be replaced by terraced slopes that allow for better absorption and slower movement of stormwater. These terraces will help to reduce the volume and speed of runoff, minimizing the risk of flooding and erosion. The naturalized banks will also provide additional opportunities for plant growth, which will further filter stormwater and reduce pollution. This approach not only helps restore some of the creek's natural hydrology but also promotes the regeneration of riparian habitats, improving water quality and fostering biodiversity. Ultimately, this transformation will create a more resilient and sustainable landscape that can better handle heavy rainfall and provide a healthier environment for both the community and wildlife

Queen City Commons

Queen City Commons is a newly developed district located along Wills Creek, strategically positioned near other key pedestrian areas such as Canal Place and Baltimore Street. This vibrant district features mixed-use development, offering space for new businesses, including offices, retail, and additional housing options in the heart of Cumberland. The plaza marks the beginning of the Caiuctucuc, the pedestrian route that connects the district to the northern end of Wills Creek. Buildings along the walkway can take advantage of the area as many of the structures are built into the landscape, providing a space for outdoor seating for restaurants or areas for vendors.

New buildings in Queen City Commons are designed with sustainability in mind, utilizing green building techniques. These structures feature solar panels and green roofs, contributing to energy efficiency and reducing the district's environmental footprint.

Caiuctucuc Plaza

Construction Detail at Night

Pathway

To maintain some of the protective function of the original wall, it was shortened to 4 feet in several areas. To address the issue of the wall dividing the creek, a new pathway was created, elevated 3 feet off the ground. At the center of the path, a planter was introduced, adding vegetation and providing additional protection against storm surges. The base around the planters features permeable paving, allowing water to drain off the pedestrian corridor and into the soil below, supporting natural water management. Lighting was designed to mimic the archways created by the railroad bridge the path crosses under.

Posters

Cumberland City Website. (n.d.). Cumberland, Maryland - History and Information. Retrieved from https://www.ci.cumberland.md.us

National Park Service. (n.d.). The National Road: America's First Interstate Highway. Retrieved from https://www.nps.gov/nr/travel/nationalroad/

Chesapeake & Ohio Canal Trust. (n.d.). History of the Canal. Retrieved from https://www.canaltrust.org

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