Southern Gateway Project creates wealth of opportunities
What could a new gateway to Harrisburg’s southern entrance at Interstate 83 look like? What land use and economic development opportunities could there be?
That will be answered as the Gateway project enters an intensive land use/economic development phase, including extensive public input and participation. But, preliminary estimates are that it could mean more than 3 million square feet of new, mixed-use space – offices, residences, retail and parking – and as many as 6,500 new jobs. It could mean $1 billion in private investment, where today the most common land use is surface parking.
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The new roadway pictured over existing land use (left) and a concept for development (right). |
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Creatively managing land use in the southern end of Harrisburg can double the downtown and bring additional tax revenue to the city.
Ideas about what the Gateway might look like will include the need to blend the old, such as the historic homes and churches, with the new, as in the need for new technology and other infrastructure.
An architectural treatment known as a “plinth” may enhance development options. An ancient technique used to elevate structures, a plinth was used in the construction of the state Capitol Building in Harrisburg. Plinths are used today in Holland, New York City, Atlanta, Chicago and other modern developments, although people often walk or drive on them without realizing they are on an elevated plane. |
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The plinth has a benefit to the Gateway beyond visual impact. It could elevate the structures, including utilities and services, out of the flood plain, with lower levels used for parking (see the cross section at the bottom of the page). |
Why is there so much focus on building in the Gateway area when space still exists in the region for more residences, industry and business? Many leaders, as well as many members of the public, would prefer to encourage “infill” to urban areas rather than promote open space development. The urban environment offers a lot of synergies, such as cultural, educational, dining, entertainment, retail, proximity to other enterprises, access to transit, pedestrian traffic, and other resources. Harrisburg also offers its position as the state’s capital city as a unique resource.
Harrisburg is fortunate to have the unique opportunity - with support from federal, state and regional officials - to integrate land use and economic development planning in conjunction with the transportation improvements proposed in the Gateway, including the extension of Third Street.
During 2006-2009, the City, its partners and interested participants will be developing the “specific plan” that can make a new and exciting Gateway a reality. Work will be done on a building plan and related ordinances, as well as design features, including ways to wrap the existing greenway into the City. The plan also can include exciting ways to create pedestrian-friendly areas and determine infrastructure needs.
A cross section of a Gateway concept looking east from River Street and showing parking beneath the buildings. The new Paxton Street Bridge is on the right. The orange line to the left of the underground parking represents Vine Street and the purple band is the railroad track.
