13th Street Helyx PedestrianOverpass and Medians
The team of GCRA, RS&H and Oelrich Construction, Inc. constructed a plaza and staircase adjacent to the overpass to established street, sidewalk and transit connections that link the rail-trail system to an extensive network of multimodal access points. Sustainable features include: the recyclable aluminum for the new pedestrian cover; and an attractive rain garden for stormwater management.
The Design
The design addressed specified limited areas for painting and utilized an environmentally friendly powder coating process that produces less waste, uses no harmful solvents, and requires less energy. At night, the structure is illuminate with efficient, long-lasting LED lighting, creating a striking entrance into the city.
The iconic entrance into the community, which provides an attractive and pedestrian-friendly thoroughfare, celebrates Gainesville’s railroad heritage, high-tech future and distinctive personality.
Complete demolition of existing walkways, utilities, curbs, retaining walls, and landscaping was required to provide updated water service, stormwater collection system, street lighting, increased walkway width, new retaining walls, new concrete sub-base, brick pavers at walkways, and concrete driveways for residences and active businesses. This project also consisted of a complete renovation of the existing medians in the center of 441.
All work was completed with an approved maintenance of traffic plan and the project was phased to allow all businesses, residents, pedestrians, bus passengers, and vehicle traffic to maintain activities and operations as required.
Before & After
