Reestablishing the Link

The Hill District used to be a thriving community in Pittsburgh until a series of events eventually caused a significant decline in the population. The loss of people meant that homes have gone abandoned and overgrown lots are scattered all over the District. In order to bring back life to this community my design looks at reconnecting the Lower Hill back to the Business district. The highway that had severed the connection between the two districts will be capped and allow pedestrians to walk over it. As part of the super studio I wanted to incorporate many aspects of the Green New Deal goals into the design. In order to encourage people to come over to the Hill many new affordable housing units will be put in place along with new businesses and offices. Also any Historic building that remains in the hill will be saved to preserve the history. Many green spaces will be designated throughout all of the Hill District to promote a cleaner environment with good air and water quality. Schools will be added to ensure everyone is being provided a good education, and has an opportunity to go to college if they desire. This will help people from the Hill get jobs in the new companies that would move into the Lower Hill District.

The Masterplan of the Lower Hill District tries to reestablish a connection with the business district by creating many new buildings for stores and restaurants to move into. The design aligns with many principles from the Green New Deal. The site promotes providing housing for all people with the addition of many affordable housing units. This is to try and encourage people who had previously been forced out of the Hill District due to gentrification an opportunity to move back. Another green new deal goal that is addressed in the design improving the transportation systems so people don't all need to drive. There are more public transportation options to get from the Hill to the business district. Also with the Cap project in place, and improved pedestrian safety throughout the lower Hill, people will be able to walk to their destinations. Many green spaces were added to help reduce the storm water runoff and provide a relaxing environment for residents.

The Open Space plan shows how there will be a vibrant park with winding pathways. The pathway winds around the openings which allow natural light to enter the underground parking facility while also allowing emissions to escape. The Affordable housing units on the right have their own private pocket parks to relax in.

The Streetscape design shows the plans to add bike lanes to the main road. There will be a bike lane going both directions next to a single lane of traffic. There are street trees and plantings in place to slow the flow of traffic since this area will be dominated by pedestrians. More crosswalks have been added to ensure pedestrian safety. Also shown in the ramp which leads to an underground parking garage.