Northside
Victory Park Plan
This neglected park features a few pieces of playground equipment in very close proximity to the basketball court. This discourages young children from using it. the proposed vision includes expanding the park to the north and features an improved basketball court with bleachers, a large picnic pavilion, fully equipped playground for younger and older children, and a large illustrated historical marker celebrating black history in the northside and Buchanan.
North Side Plan
A city is only as strong as its most vulnerable parts. the Northside neighborhood is a neglected part of Buchanan, and its riverfront and history is often forgotten. The Northside has great potential. This strategy to make important connection between Buchanan and the St. Joe river promotes the improvement of the quality of life of all Buchanan residents.
Riverfront Park Section
The concept illustrated here includes a destination inn and restaurant carefully positioned on the bluff overlooking long view over the Senathwen Zibe (St. Joseph River). Minimal footprints and stilt construction are intended to be gentle on the sensitive landscape. the team suggests that the city seek a partnership with the Pokagon Band.
Riverfront Park West Arial
Before
After
This concept illustrates a raised boardwalk the traverses the bluff and enables visitors to reach the water. Tree limbs are kept trimmed to enable views. The boardwalk can be extended to connect with the public landing. The improved park features a circular fie pit area near Richards St. and is oriented with a direct view of Moccasin Bluff downriver. The indigenous History and Ecology trail informs visitors of the significance of this landscape.
Red Bud Trail
Before
After
As the northside is improved, the City should collaborate closely with local residents on programs designed to avoid gentrification. this should include education about predatory practices, as well as municipal strategies to safeguard continued affordability.
Walton Road Bike Path
Before
After
The City should work to expand its trail into a network that connects multiple destinations, including on the Northside and beyond. An expanded dedicated trail network helps to connect Buchanan with the region and establishes it as a place for active and healthy lifestyles. the concept illustrated here proposes that the river Street bridge in Buchanan be retrofitted to included dedicated trails on each side of the bridge.
Public Landing
Located just off of Red Bud Trail road and connected to the North Side Development is the redesigned public landing to include a wooden walk way, fish cleaning station, and camp sites.
Cottage Court Neighborhood
The City of Buchanan should promote the development of new, pedestrian-friendly pocket neighborhoods where possible. the is concept illustrates a diverse mix of middle-income housing types for which there are demand, but which are "missing" in the current real estate offerings of the region. the design is oriented towards a restored river view with limbed trees on River Front Drive.