Atlanta Beltline Redevelopment of Subarea 3, Boulevard Crossing District Design

Carolyn Courtney Rees - Spring 2012

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Table of ContentsIntroduction .......................................................................................4-5Site Inventory and Analysis....................................................... 6-13Master Plan.................................................................................... 14-19 Concept Design Development PlanSite Design..................................................................................... 20-25 Development Master Plan ImagesSite Construction......................................................................... 26-37 Grading Staking and Materials Details PlantingConclusion..................................................................................... 38-39References..................................................................................... 40-41

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“The Atlanta BeltLine is the most comprehensive economic development effort ever undertaken in the City of Atlanta and among the largest, most wide-ranging urban redevelopment projects currently underway in the United States.”

-Atlanta Beltline, Inc.

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IntroductionSubarea 3 lies southeast of downtown Atlanta. The district of Boulevard Crossing Park has been selected as a Tax Allocation District for its design opportunities and potentials to bring life to the community. Grant Park, Choosewood Park, and the proposed Boulevard Crossing Park , as well as seven Boulevard Crossing neighbor-hoods are currently disrupted by the existing rail lines and industrial and vacant lots. With the master plan and site design illustrated in this booklet, the Boulevard Crossing District may be revitalized to not only serve its community and habitat with a refreshing sustainable design for holding events and regular functions, but will also develop a space of an iconic character. The park elements and overall de-sign are aimed toward the interested, active people of Atlanta who demand a site for holding regular races, sustainable practice events and demonstrations, as well as art displays and exhibitions. After living in Atlanta for over 20 years, and traveling and visiting various cities, it became evident that the city would most appreciate and cherish a defined district with the selected program elements of this project; thus, Boulevard Crossing Park will fulfill exisiting voids within the urban fabric of Atlanta.

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Area of Interest

Images above and to the left courtesy of:Executive Summary & Plan Recommendations Report for Subarea 3: Boulevard CrossingPrepared for Atlanta Beltline Inc. By Ecos Environmental DesignGrice and AssociatesSmith Dalia ArchitectsDovetail Consulting

The area focused upon for inventory, analysis, and site design includes the parcel illustrated to the right, which relates to the map to the left illustrated below showing the entire Subarea 3 of Atlanta.

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The color code and legend roughly depict areas for green fingers and corridors stretching along the proposed development. The purple areas illustrate mixed use; the orange indicate residential areas; and the green areas are for parks and green spaces. Using the SA3 Recommendations Report with my personal goals and program for the designated Beltline Segment, I hope to create a Master plan and detailed study which will bring the community functional, artistic, educa-tional, and recreational spaces which will be embraced by the community and further enriched over time.

Legend of Recommended Land Uses and Development

Mixed Use: 10+ Stories

Mixed Use: 5-9 Stories

Mixed Use: 1-4 Stories

Residential: 10+ Stories

Residential: 5-9 Stories

Residential: 1-4 Stories

Office/Institutional

Community Facilities

Existing Park Space

Proposed Park Space

Proposed Transit Stop

Proposed Tunnel

Proposed Parking P

Existing Land Uses & Development Map Inventory

Multi-Family Housing

Mixed-UseResidential

Multi-Fam-ily Housing

Mixed-UseResidential

Residential

Residential

Residential

Offices& Studios

Offices& Studios

Electric FacilityBrownfield,

degradated land from industrial waste

and infill

BrownfieldBrownfield

Soccer Fields

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Contours and Slopes

Contour Plan The topography on site is il-lustrated on the right by 2’ incre-mental topography lines (black and red together.) The vertical change between the red topogra-phy lines is 10’. As the lines get closer together, the grade change increases; thus the beltline can be seen as a ridge in the Eastern half of the site, for it is edged with dramatic downward slopes. Considering that each line repre-sents a change in slope, the entire site varies greatly in most areas. There are some notable extreme slopes where the lines are dense.

The overall site slopes down from west to east, minimizing the atgrade poten-tial for a skyline view from each side of the belt line. The track for the pro-posed beltline creates a central ridge in the site, and will provide unique op-portunities for the varity of circulation types and paths to overlap and interact. Furthermore, spaces have the potential to be both separated and joined with grade changes and proposed levels on site. Topography can be utilized to dis-tinguish not only boundaries and edges for proposed areas, but also to create a dynamic and interactive environment for its visitors and the community.

Model Plan

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Contour Model

From South

From West - Beltline Ridge From East - Beltline Ridge

From Southwest Corner From Northwest Corner

From Southeast Corner

From Northeast Corner

The colors and perspective view opportunities illustrated by the model allow for further analy-sis of the site when considering the views into and from the site. The skyline, for example, can be viewed from the highest points of the site currently, from the ridge of the beltline and the Southwest corner.

Additional views to the Atlanta skyline can be exposed through the implementation of rooftop gardens and patios, as well as building orientation and overall site layout. Moreover, low areas of the site may provide opportunities for onsite focal points and pathway systems which offer unique experiences and views that connect areas and uses visually, suggesting movement and exploration.

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The contour lines shown in plan were utilized to create a contour map model with the program Sketch Up. A color identifies with each 10’ eleva-tion range, such that the low to high elevation changes are demonstrated by the gradient of colors from the lightest pinks to reds, to yellows, to light yellows, to light greens. The views below illustrate perspectives of the site’s central lines of the beltline, as well as from edges of the plan.

Soils

UrE - Urban land Rion Complex: 10-25% Slopes, 44.1 Acres

Ub - Urban Land; 161.2 Acres

UCf2 - Urban Land-Cecil Complex: 2-10% Slopes, moderately eroded; 36.6 Acres

CrA - Concaree-CartecayComplex: 0-2% Slopes,occasional flooded;2.5 Acres

Using the public information files provided by Web Soil Survey online, the table and map below were created to illustrate general soil types and slopes on the existing site. In addition, the in-formational meetings about the site provided through class project meetings with members of the Atlanta Beltline, Inc development, more detailed analysis of the soil limitations and qualities was noted. Soils have large quantities of toxins from prior infrastructure and land-use to the extent that they are not suitable for the development of the proposed uses. Therefore; grading and site development may be tackled more loosely in regards to existing conditions, since soil must be removed and replaced with uncontaminated fill.

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HydrologyThe site’s topographic changes are dramatic, and direct the water in a southwesterly direction. The beltline is highlighted by the dashed red line and creates a ridge with dramatic adjacent slopes down. The ridge itself slopes steadily from west to east with the general sites topogra-phy. Intrenchment Creek, named and located on the map is not exposed in the illustrated area, but indicates the water collection and directional flow off-site. The large arrows represent the general hydrological direction.

Exposing stormwater management practices will help educate the community and public on ways to ap-ply sustainable, innovative, creative, and economically feasible design solutions to not only reduce, reuse, and recycle water on site, but also to view water as a valuable, beautiful resource which is an integral part of our built and natural environments.

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Circulation

The plan to the left illustrates the proposed rail line with the dashed red line; proposed retrofit boulevards with solid red lines; proposed retrofit streets with orange lines; and the pro-posed trail pathway network with the light green lines. The gray lines indicate existing roads to remain.

Image on left courtesy of:Executive Summary & Plan Recommendations Report for Subarea 3: Boulevard CrossingPrepared for Atlanta Beltline Inc. By Ecos Environmental DesignGrice and AssociatesSmith Dalia ArchitectsDovetail Consulting

Image to the right: dark black lines indicate existing streets; darker blue lines illustrate where Intrench-ment Creek lies; and the orange line shows the beltline/ track /ridge.

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VegetationHardwood trees and mature canopy areas are indicated by the large tree symbol shown be-low. These trees and the canopy should be preserved for their value in reducing the heat-island effect, providing a sense of place, and for their beauty and environmental benefits to both the human and animal community. The grass symbol indicates areas with some vegeta-tive cover including both small shrubs and weeds. The black splotches indicate the areas that have been depredated with industrial waste and development.

Phytoremediation can be uti-lized to aid the land quality in recovery from toxic wastes. Many soils on site have depre-ciated due to the infiltration of toxins from industrial waste and landfill. Phytoremedia-tion is a process which utilizes specific plant species to clean up the polluted soils. Areas of this site could easily be re-searched for their capabilities for demonstrating this tech-nique to the community for both educational and research opportunities regarding green development and ecological restoration.

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Master Plan - ConceptThe chosen site consists of approximately 125 acres, which include mixed-use buildings, residential buildings, a retail center,

community facility buildings, Boulevard Crossing Park, and a transit station alongside the proposed Beltline Development. The de-sign program illustrates a variety of land uses which can be grouped into the following categories: public, civic, recreational spaces; environmental development, on-site energy renewable sources, and ecological restoration endeavors; artistic and gathering venues; community identity and value associative elements and features.

In the building districts, Jane Jacobs and Gorden Cullen’s theories of “uneven sidewalks” and creating mystery and wonder through providing opportunistic landscapes are utilized to develop lively pedestrian and vehicular circulation networks. Sculptural focal points and playground equipment for example are placed along bending pathways through the uneven building facades to inspire movement and wonder; furthermore, the pedestrian’s experience through the spaces was emphasized to allocate functional spaces. The path network adjacent to the park is edged with one hard protective wall on one side and the soft, open field on the other. The combination of having a hard and soft edge along the walkway will not only bring attention to the vast beauty of the planted field, but also create a meditative, rhythmic experience for the pedestrians, runners, walkers, etc. The skyline can be viewed from the buildings, as well as their rooftops; plazas and gatherings spaces are located wherever possible to expose the skyline to its visitors, especially for night-time activities. For example, amphitheater seating is located on the rooftop of a mixed-use building for shows and movie screenings on the façade of the adjacent building (all the while providing a great view of the Atlanta skyline). Recreational elements and facilities are located along Edgewood Avenue, between the buildings and field. Tennis courts and other hardtop sporting facilities are provided, with parking for the buildings and spaces underneath. Many buildings on site will have parking underground which can front to the open field and plazas for not only service access but also to maximize the spaces and topographic potentials of the site for its occupants.

Example of Greenspace exposing topographic changes for land use and water management, as Recommended in the SA3 Recommendations Report14

Greenspace goals are always important in park and recreation design; although, for the chosen site green infrastructure, demonstration gardens, and on-site renewable energy sources have been included to not only the open ‘greenspaces’ but also to the building systems, particularly the roofs. Due to the great topographic changes on site, a field a switchgrass has been designated for much of the green open space to provide not only a beautiful field which demonstrates to the community the ongoing, seasonal processes of farming, but also to provide a regional energy source. The annual embodied energy the field should generate will off-set the equivalent of 15 vehicles worth of annual carbon emissions. Another opportunity this particular site has to offer is a study of phytoremediation. The existing soils are littered with toxins, which can be eliminated or extracted through the plantings of par-ticular species; planting beds and gardens can feature these species which not only clean the toxins from the soils, but also provide educational opportunities for research and community education. Furthermore, wind turbines, LEED building standards, solar panels, water efficiency strategies and rainwater harvesting will all be utilized to emphasize the community’s value in holistic design and energy opportunities.

Public art exhibits and cultural event spaces are networked within the pedestrian walkways both indoors and out. Local movie artists could screen their films at the rooftop amphitheater. Every two weeks a marathon could be hosted in the outdoor plaza space adjacent to the beltline, transit stop, field, and mixed-use buildings. Festivals highlighting community members’ goods, art, and other local products could be available weekly in the open market spaces. Food carts located on the lower plaza terrace adjacent to the field can offer local vendors regular space to work as well as bring a variety of people from work, school, home, etc. to activate the space with a cultural mix of cuisine and users. A pavilion is located on the upper terrace as a focal point and a gathering space to exhibit artists work or as a performance space. The numerous multi-functional sapces can rotate daily, weekly, month, annually, etc. to hold events and exhibitions, unique for each prorams scope.

Moreover, the proposed schematic design embodies a community’s drive towards richness and vibrancy through sustainable practices and activated spaces. The holistic approach to achieving multiple program goals with each designed space optimizes the likelihood for success in bringing people to the site and exposing them to the communities values and educational opportunities regarding sustainability and rich, healthy lifestyles.

Example of Englewood CulturalCommunity Facility Character, as Recommended in the SA3 Recommendations Report

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Master Plan Concepts - Design Processing

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Master Plan Concepts - Design ProcessingMaster Plan - Concept Designs

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The first concept, shown to the left, creates a vari-ety of multifunctional spaces in the park for social-izing, sport, performances, markets, etc. The main social spaces are adjacent to Cherokee Avenue at the grade of the transit station. The field is terraced below, and can be crossed over by a bridge connect-ing the transit station and upper terrace space to the buildings along Boulevard Avenue. The bridge will allow for people to circulate between the built environments, while being able to overlook the planted field below.

The second concept design focuses on sustainable inita-tive opportunities the site has to offer the community. Buildings will be highly energy efficent, and exposed stormwater management, biofuel generation, wind tur-bines, etc. will all be features and icons of Boulevard Crossing Park. The field will be planted with switchgrass and harvested to generate biofuel which annually would offset the carbon emissions of about 15 vehicles annually. Social, multifunctional spaces are located in and around buildings.

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Master Plan - Concept Processing

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The two concept designs were evaluated and combined for their unique features to create a master plan which encompasses both the social and sustainable spaces. Cherokee Avenue has been directed further east toward the tunnel allowing for a more subtle slope down, and a boundary to be created between the terraced, social areas on the West, and the switchgrass field on the east. Large wind turbines anchor the edge of the park to cre-ate an iconic community character of sustainability and a sense a place for visitors. The bridge proposed in the first concept remains to connect pedestrians between the transit station and the multi-use buildings along Boule-vard Crossing Park. This element is a functional feature in that it allows for people to move through the site eas-ily, and experience the dramatic gradient changes from a variety of perspectives. The buildings along Boulevard Avenue have rooftop gardens and a rooftop amphitheater for movie screenings and events, which are level with the

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Master Plan

Massing and 3D Study Model

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Site Design DevelopmentThe park embodies the northern area of Boulevard Crossing Park. The proposed Chero-kee Ave has been extended to bend and enter the tunnel further east, and acts as a boundary between the terraced social spaces and the field at the low grade. A pedes-trian bridge connects the upper terrace with the mid-level retail center of the mixed use building, which is also at grade with the roof-top gardens along Boulevard Ave. The drawings below and to the right illustrate design process to understand and develop the elements proposed in consideration of topographic changes.

The section above cuts through the site from west to east and faces north. The beltline transit station is shown furthest left and connects to the upper plaza where a pavillion and playground sculptural element lies for enjoying outdoor events and encouraging people to explore further into and around the district. Parking is proposed under the plazas to not only provide easy access for commuters into the space, but also for the food carts to access the mid-level terrace, and to minimize the amount of fill dirt necessary for the proposed development. The topographic changes through the site provide lookouts into and out of the site from a variety of spaces; moreover, from the roads, buildings, ter-races, paths, etc. the walls and engineering of the site demonstrate a dynamism which can be experientially appreciated through a variety of places and circulatory options.20

Site Design DevelopmentThe plans below demonstrate designated elements, uses, circulation, and materials of the site layout. The bending road and path down towards the tunnel is lined with street trees on the inside and an open edge to the field below to the outside. Arching structures create a rhythmic approach to the tunnel complementing its integrity both structurally and experientially.

Informational signage about the switchgrass field, local artwork, upcoming events, urban farming techniquese, stormwater management, and green building elements will be scattered throughout the site to create a unified theme of holistic, balanced relationships between both human and natural elements in a vibrant, urban setting.

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Site Design

The park includes a variety of spaces, terraces, functional uses, and circulatory networks which provide unique ambiances for multiple uses. Paths and views throughout the site encourage exploration and movement not only within the spaces illustrated, but throughout the district. The upper terraces pro-vide a venue for events and performances, as well as community space for: - displaying local art for interacting and playing - planting gardens for edibles and seasonal beauty - providing local vendors with stations for cart stands and markets - holding regular events for runners, cyclers, and other outdoor events - illustrating a devotion to sustainabilityall to develop an iconic character for the district to grow and strengthen over time.

The northern edge of the site connects distinctly to the pedestrian pathway of the beltline with a narrowed opening to the pavilion and into the upper terrace. Pedestrians circulate down to the mid-level terrace by stairway access from the north, or along Cherokee Avenue from the south. The mid-level ter-race has tables and seating below shade trees, as well as space for food carts to congregate; thus, a day-time space for appreciating natural elements in an urban environment is created, overlooking the field and connecting to both the pedestrian paths, roadways, and beltline transit station.

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Site Design - Master PlanThe master plan below incorporates a variety of program elements of the overall site plan and layout. The proposed spaces provide areas for the local community members to develop into their own with local art pieces, and public planting beds and gardens. For example, a local daycare could have an event for children to come and paint the water cisterns or picnic tables. Fences and gardens could display art pieces installed from local sculptors.

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Site Design - Perspective Sketch The site model illustrates the topographic changes of the proposed site at 10’ intervals. The road, tunnel, archway, terraces, buildings, and beltline engineering demonstrate the built elements of the site. These areas are complemented by the vast planted areas which can be viewed from each adjacent social area of Boulevard Crossing Park.

24 Site Design - from south

Site Design - Perspective Sketch

25Site Design - from pedestrian bridge facing west

The arches allude to the tunnel, providing a rhythmic, exciting experience for people circulating through the site along Cherokee Avenue. The bending bridge creates drama, and encourages exploration and discovery.

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Grading Plan

The topographic differential within the site amounts to over 65’. Cherokee Avenue bends down towards the tunnel, achieving more than a 40’ elevation change with an 8% slope. The road is supported by crib walls, retain-ing earth from the lower switchgrass field. Crib walls also retain the earth for the mid and upper terraces.

Ecological and engineering functions are achieved through the implementation of the crib walls and terraces. The existing topography of the site is considered with the design. Terraces allow for social spaces to be accessible and connected through the circulatory networks between public spaces. Runoff and erosion is minimized with ter-races, and the survival of large food-web supporting trees planted in the space is maximized by retaining the earth with walls. In addition, the extension of the tunnel and Cherokee Avenue westward allows for the site to require less dirt to be delievered, extracted, and moved in the site.

An element of drama is also created by the large retaining walls, whether perceived from above or below. The sense of being high above lower terraces is exciting, and allows for people to feel connected and close to the field, while remaining in a plaza setting. Standing, walking, or driving along the base of a wall comforts and shel-ters people, giving the sense of being hidden and protected. These aspects and qualities of the walls were consid-ered for each of the designed spaces and for their functional uses. For example, the food carts, tables, and seating are located on the mid-terrace so visitors can relax in a space that is visually separated from the transportation routes, while remaining connected and centralized in the park. The walls protect and edge the terrace from dis-playing its use, while providing its users with views into adjacent areas of Boulevard Crossing Park.

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Site Design - Grading Plan

Plan reduced by 25%, Scale: 1”=80’-00”

The site design incorporates mostly porous pavements and groundcovers, allowing for maximum rainwater infiltration and plant life expectancy; thus, minimal maintenance and cost for irrigation. Crib walls retain the earth of terraces and along the bending Chero-kee Avenue. The face of the walls slope at 1:6 and are covered with Virginia Creeper. Fences will be installed at the top of walls for safety, optimal views, and to encourage visitors to look out and explore the many circulation and entertainment options Boulevard Crossing Park has to offer.

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Materials were selected and specified for the site based upon the holistic design and character desired in the design of Boulevard Crossing Park. Porous pavers maximize water infiltration and plant life expectancy. Pavers were also selected for their easy installation and replacement potential over time. The plant beds and walls con-trast and balance the steel and rigid structural components of the site to harmonize the natural and built environ-mental elements highlighted in the site design.

The curvilinear forms encourage movement of people through the park, in search of finding what lies beyond their line of sight and direct access. For example, the upper terrace’s curved boundary created by the crib wall is then further dramatized by the curvilinear planting bed, inviting people to move along the planting bed to reach the closest point to the wall’s edge for a view down to the terraced spaces below. The bridge curves to distract people from utilizing the path solely as a method of transportation, and to experience the park from different an-gles and perspectives at all times.

Site Design - Staking and Materials

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Site Design - Staking and Materials Plan

L.06SHEET NO.:

PROJECT REF.:

SCALE:

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REVISIONS:

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Courtney Rees

Courtney Rees

Courtney Rees

20Mar2012

1"=20'-00"

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Staking and Materials PlanScale: 1"=20'-00"

Sta

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POB: on the NW Corner of the intersection between Schuyler Ave and Boulevard Ave., a referenceline due West is made to stake outthe site design and call out materials

The edge of the proposed building onthe East of the Site Design Plan is 653'-6" West of the POB on the referenceline and into the site for further stakingmeasurements and dimensioning,

653'-6"

65°

83°

10'

51°

91°

Planting Bed

Porous Pavers and Planters

Switchgrass Field

Stone Steps

Crib Retaining Walls

Stacked Stone, Crib Retaining Wall

Planting Bed

Plant, Natural GrowthProposed Beltline Paths and Rail System

Building, Wood Decking

Steel and Wooden Bridge

Steel and Iron Archand Post

Building Facade - edgew/ vine trellis system

around windows

1. All roads and sidewalk systems are to be constructedto the standard proposed in the S03 RecommendationsPlan Report in regards to widths and materials. Layout,and street trees have been changed from the report, seeplan for new angles, trees, slopes, and further details.

Notes:

2. Retaining walls slope at a min. of 1:4 from bottom of wall to the top. Measurements of plazas measure thegrade of the terrace, not including or extending to includethe projection of the wall.3. Arches are the same in length, and vertical heightfrom the upper terrace. Thus, the heights of the postsin the field vary in height, depending on the ground El.

4. Fences will be installed at the top of crib walls and along the stairs, and bridge edges for safety and for climbing plants. The crib walls only extend verticallyto meet the grade of the top elevation; thus not visually or physically intruding on the upper levels environment.

Porous Pavers

Planting Bed

Planting Bed

48'

45'

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111°

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POB

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line from POB to center mark of arc's - 434'

POB: on the outside SE Corner of the planting bed between Schuyler Ave and Cherokee Ave., a line referenceis made 81 degrees from the North lineand is directed West. The center mark81° for all the road and wall arc's is in thisdirection, 434' from the POB.

86'

133'

60'The distance from the closestand farthest West arc to the center mark is 109'. All the following arc's can bestaked from offsetting theirspecific distances from theirpreceeding arc's.

69'

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Plan reduced by 25%, Scale: 1”=80’-00”

The site’s staking and materials plan below specifies which areas will be built with which matierals, as well as their sizes and dimensions. The first POB is located at the existing interection of Boulevard Avenue and Schuyler Avenue. A reference line is drawn from this point due west to begin dimensioning areas of the site. The center mark for each arc is referenced from the second POB located at the road intersection south of the tunnel. All the large arcs and edges of terraces and the road are offset from the same center mark.

Site Design - Construction Details

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Details shown to the right and on the following page illustrate and specify the standards, sizes, and materials to be used when constructing each of the fol-lowing site components:

- porous pavements- tree plantings- planting beds and borders- pedestrian walkways- shrub plantings- crib walls- Switchgrass field

The road construction and adja-cent road plantings and walkway details should conform to those specified in the SA 03 Recommendations Report unless otherwise specified.

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Site Design - Construction

Details shown to the right and on the following page illustrate and specify the standards, sizes, and materials to be used when constructing each of the following site components and elements: porous pavements tree plantings planting bed borders pedestrian walkway shrub planting bed crib wall switchgrass field

The road construction and adja-cent road plantings and walkway details should conform to those existing in the S03 Recommen-dations Report unless otherwise specified.

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Site Design - Construction Details

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Site Design - Construction

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Site Design - Tree Planting

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Large trees were selected for their species attributes, habit, form, seasonal char-acteristics, and urban tolerance. The plant list to the right illustrates the seasonal inter-est for each tree located in the site design plan. Exfoliating bark and the overall form of both the River Birch and the Chinese Elm are particularly outstanding features provided year round. The Water Oaks are large, providing shade when needed, and a dominating, protective presence among the site. The Full-Moon Maples are excellent specimen trees because of their smaller scale, color changing foliage, and texture.

Quercus nigra, Water Oak

Each large tree species specified supports and encourages wildlife and biodiversity for the region. Careful and responsible tree selection throughout the human-dominated landscape to revitalize and provide for the plant and animal food web has been overlooked in the past; moreover, local extinction of animal species and biodiversity has dra-matically decreased throughout the nation. By planting large trees and plants which support the diet of native insects and bird populations, ecosystems will be fueled to support local and regional animal species.

Ulmus parvifolia, Chinese Elm, street trees

Biodiversity and rich ecosystems provide our planet with vital natural services. Without these services, we would not have air to breathe, clean water, natural resources, etc. Supporting biodiversity by designing beautiful landscapes should be a priority in the profession of landscape architecture, as well as an education and demonstra-tion opportunity for communities to adopt. Increasing biodiversity can benefit visitors’ site experience; more birds, insects, and life create fresh, interesting spaces for people and children to engage with nature. For example, children are more likely to play outdoors if the outdoors is interesting with bugs and the opportunity for discovery. Having children develop personal interests and connections with nature is particularly important to their mental develop-ment, as well as our planet’s future. If people no longer develop emotional, personal attachments and connections to the land, it will not be understood and respected.

Site Design - Tree Planting Plan

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Acer japonicum, Full-Moon Maple

Betula nigra, River BirchPlan reduced by 25%, Scale: 1”=40’-00”Tree List and Attributes

Qty. Botanical Name Common Name Size Spacing Fall Winter Spring Summer3 Acer japonicum Full Moon Maple 3” cal. 15’ OC red, texture form red blooms, green green txt, form7 Betula nigra River Birch 4” cal. 35’ OC bark, yellow bark, form, fruit bark, green, form bark, green, form5 Quercus nigra Water Oak 5” cal. as shown on plan yellow attracts wildlife green green7 Ulmus parvifolia Chinese Elm 4” cal. 35’ OC bark, many colors bark, form, fruit bark, fine green bark, fine green

Site Design - Understory Planting

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Virginia Creeper is a vigorous climbing vine, which has beau-tiful fall color and texture. The image to the left displays illustrative qualities of the vine in the fall. The vine will be planted in the fill dirt of the retaining crib walls on site. A grid of plantings will be laid out on site so that the vine may fill in to soften the structure. Depending on the density of vine growth, it may be desirable to cut back the vine and allow for the wall to show through in some areas or seasons when the vine is less ornamental. Also, Virginia Creeper is an extremely beneficial plan for native insects! (pollinators)Parthenocissus quinquefolia,

Virginia Creeper

Each plant selected for the understory has unique at-tributes, such as the interesting habit and structure of the Gopher Plant shown to the right. Aster forms a fine tex-tured, low bed of lavendar flowers to bring simple beauty to the groundplane. The cool colors recede into space, and en-courage visitors to sense the extension of Bouldvard Cross-ing Park beyond each multifunctional area.

Understory plants are layered in the curving planting beds to complement and contrast one another, as well as bring character to each space. Seasonal interest is provided through the selection of a variety of species, forms, textures, colors, and scales. Ornamen-tal grasses were selected for their fluid movement and form, while elongating spaces and highlighting specimen species.

Schizachyrlium scoparium, Little Bluestem

Muhlenbergia capillaris, Muhly Grass

Euphorbia rigida, Gopher Plant Aster laevis, Aster

Site Design - Understory Planting Plan

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Helianthus debilis, Beach Sunflower

Spiraea x vanhouttee ‘Snow White’, Vanhouette Spirea

Plan reduced by 25%, Scale: 1”=40’-00”

Acer griseum,Papaerbark Maple

Site Design A variety of mixed annuals will be planted in selected beds and rotated based on their seasonal blooms. In the plan these areas

are labeled by their mix category. The plant list and seasonal attributes in the table below can be used for referencing which annual mix shall be planted and displayed for each season. The blooming colors and size of the annuals were selected for their urban, drought and heat tolerances, as well as their general growing conditions. Pike Nurseries sells each annual mix selected and these are refer-enced by the common names listed at the bottom of the following page.

Plant Mix AThe mix of purple and blue-tinted blooms were chosen for the planting beds along the top of the crib wall so that they extend the line of site and encourage movement along the circulation paths. Within the terrace plant-ing beds the mix will complement the ornamental grasses and specimen seasonal plants and attributes illustrated in the understory planting plan.

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Site Design - Annuals and Inspiration

Plant Mix - List and Attributes

Blue Bayou Mix Pansy - Spring

Pure Colors Mix Pansy - Winter Citrus Mix Pansy Fall and Winter

Mix Angelonia - Summer

Mix Ranculus - Spring

Plant Mix BWarm colors and textural variety is provided with this seasonally changing annual rotation. In the terraces, this mix defines edges of planting beds. The mix is also displayed at the base of the crib wall west of Cherokee Avenue to complement the Beach Sunflower and Virginia Creeper and bring color and life to the dominating structures.

Nursery Mix Name Common Name Size Spacing Fall Winter Spring SummerPike Mix A Blue Bayou Mix Pansy 2’ or less 1’-2’ bluePike Mix A East Friesland Meadow Sage 2’ or less 1’-2’ purple purplePike Mix A Pure Colors Mix Pansy 2’ or less 1’ multi, orange-purpPike Mix B Citrus Mix Pansy 2’ or less 1’-2’ multicolored, orangePike Mix B Mix Ranculus 2’ or less 1’-2’ multi, orangePike Mix B Mix Angelonia 2’ or less 1’-2’ multicoloredPike Mix C Rocket Mix Snapdragon 3’-5’ 1’-2’ multicoloredPike Mix C Girlfriend Mix Pansy 2’ or less 1’ multicoloredPike Mix C Pure Colors Mix Pansy 2’ or less 1’ multi, orange-purp

East Friesland Meadow SageSummer and Fall

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Rocket Mix Snapdragon Spring

Girlfriend Mix Pansy - Fall

Pure Colors Mix Pansy - Winter

Plant Mix CThe many colors and interesting attributes this mix provides will complement the upper terrace planting bed as it is located behind plant mix B and in front of a massing of Muhly Grass. The blooms are slightly deeper in color than the preceding plant mix, and con-trast with the fine texture and blending blooms and foliage of muhly grass to create a presence and layering effect that can be viewed from the road and southern circulation paths, drawing visitors into the upper terrace.

The rooftop container garden and design illustrated in the photo below, embodies the aesthetic desired for the proposed rooftop gardens, plazas, restaurants, and amphi-theatre. Having plants border and edge the rooftops allows for them to complement the city skyline and urban back-ground setting.

Rooftop Design Inspration

Qty. Botanical Name Common Name Size Spacing Fall Winter Spring Summer12 Acer griseum Paperbark Maple 3” cal. pots, on plan bark, red bark, form bark, green open canopy431 Aster laevis Aster 12” pots 2’ OC lavendar, fine txt reliable mass planting lavendar, fine txt47 Euphorbia rigida Gopher Plant 3 gal. 4’ OC form, texture, green yellow-pink blooms form, texture, green84 Helianthus debilis Beach Sunflower 3 gal. 4’ OC yellow blooms, form102 Muhlenbergia capillaris Muhly Grass 3 gal. 4’ OC copper, purple blooms, form green fine txt, form61 Parthenocissus quinquefolia Virginia Creeper 12” pots on walls, 15’ grid red, fast growing purple fruit green, reliable, habit44 Schizachyrium scoparium Little Bluestem 3 gal. 4’ OC mahogany red, white seeds blue green foliage blue green foliage

Understory Plant List and Attributes - plant images on previous spread

Rooftop Gardens

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ConclusionSubarea 3 lies southeast of downtown Atlanta. Grant Park, Choosewood Park, and the proposed Boulevard Crossing Park , as well as seven Boulevard Crossing neighborhoods will be unitied and connected with the master plan and site design illustrated with this project. The Boulevard Crossing District may be revitalized to not only serve its community and habitat with a refreshing, sustainable design, but also will develop an iconic character for holding exhibitions and special events. The park elements and overall design will fulfill the demand of the interested, ac-tive people of Atlanta in demand of a site for holding races, sustainable practices events and demonstrations, as well as art displays and exhibitions. The exisiting voids within the urban fabric of Atlanta will be re-generated and accessible through designing of the many parks and developments along the proposed beltline holisti-cally. The Subarea 3 proposed master plan and site design demonstrated in this project illustrate the process of developing one of the beltline areas with regard for Atlanta, visitors, the subarea district, and both the built and natural environment.

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References - Information Sources- Atlanta Beltline Inc. Atlanta Beltline. 2012. 2012 йил January - May <http://www.beltline.org/>.- Brown, Nicholas Dines and Kyle. “Landscape Architect’s Portable Handbook.” Brown, Nicholas Dines and Kyle. Earth Retaining Structures. Ed. Jeffrey D. Blanken-ship. New York City: McGraw-Hill, 2001. 237-255.- Ecos Environmental Design, Grice & Associates, Smith Dalia Architects, Dovetail Consulting. Atlanta Beltline Master Plan. Executive Summary & Plan Recommenda-tions Report. Atlanta: Atlanta City Council, 2009.Enviromental Protection Agency. Green Power Equivalency Calculator Methodolo-gies. Climate Change: Clean Energy. Washington DC: EPA Green Power Partnership, 2011.- McLaughlin, S., J. Bouton, D. Bransby, B. Conger, W. Ocumpaugh, D. Parrish, C. Talia-ferro, K. Vogel, and S. Wullschleger. Developing switchgarss bioenergy crop. Alexaia: ASHS Press, 1999.- Neil G. Odenwald, James R. Turner. Identification, Selection, and Use of Southern Plants. Fourth Edition. Baton Rouge: Claitor’s Publishing Division, 2006.- Pike Nurseries. Garden Center. 2012 йил 18-April. 2012 йил 18-April <http://www.pikenursery.com/catalogsearch/result/?q=meadow+mix>.- ProWood. “ProLam UltraCrib.” 2012. ProWood Sustainable Solutions. 2012 йил 1-April <http://www.prolamnz.com/prolam.php?pg=crib>.- Tallamy, Doug. About Native Gardening. 2012 йил 31-March. 2012 йил 18-April <http://bringingnaturehome.net/native-gardening>.

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References - Images- acer japonicum. about-garden.com. (Acer japonicum, pg. 33)- Atlanta Beltline Inc. Atlanta Beltline. 2012. 2012 йил January - May <http://www.beltline.org/>. (Cover, pg. 1 - original image was then altered in Photoshop)- Doucek, Paul. Rooftop Gardening Blog. (Rooftop Design Inspiration, pg. 37)- Drabot, Dustin. Could the Atlanta Beltline Connect to East Point and College Park? Atlanta, 2011. (final image, pg. 38 - original image was then altered in Photoshop)- Ecos Environmental Design, Grice & Associates, Smith Dalia Architects, Dovetail Consulting. Atlanta Beltline Master Plan. Executive Summary & Plan Recommenda-tions Report. Atlanta: Atlanta City Council, 2009. (inventory and master plan con-cept images, pgs. 6, 12, 14, 15)- Gardens, Wayside. Muhlenbergia cappilaris - Pink Muhly Grass. (Muhlenbergia capillaris, pg. 34)- Kress, Henriette. Photo: Acer griseum. Henriette’s Herbal Homepage. (Acer gri-seum, pg. 35)- Lacebark Elm. iVillage Garden Web. (Ulmus parvifolia, pg. 32)- Landscape, Randy Stewart. Plants for a New Generation Backup. (Spiraea x van-houttee, pg. 35)- Misseeuw, Bruno. Atlanta Skyline from Turner Stadium. 26 February 2007. 25 April 2012 <http://www.flickriver.com/photos/bruno_misseeuw/403660413/>. (introductory photo, pg. 2)- Nurseries, North Creek. Aster laevis ‘Bluebird’. (Aster laevis, pg. 34)- Pike Nurseries. Garden Center. 2012 йил 18-April. 2012 йил 18-April <http://www.pikenursery.com/catalogsearch/result/?q=meadow+mix>. (meadow mix pho-tos, pgs 36-37)- Plants, Alabama. Helianthus debilis. (Helianthus debilis, pg. 35)- Prairie, New Hampton. Little Bluestem. (Schizachyrlium scoparium, pg. 34)- StockphotoPro, Inc. Virginia creeper Parthenocissus quinquefolia in autumn. (Par-thenocissus quinquefolia, pg. 34)

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