Renovation brings back commercial street
A renovation project in Garden City, N.Y., has revitalized Franklin Avenue, a deteriorated street that was once known as the Fifth Avenue of Long Island. In 2000, the city completed a $3 million streetscaping and beautification project that was designed to re-attract business to the area and return it to its status as a haven for pedestrians.
Franklin Avenue was once lined with prominent retailers, but, by the 1990s, many retail anchors had moved to shopping malls, and smaller businesses fell victim to decreased customer traffic. At the same time, vehicle traffic increased, further eroding the area’s appeal to pedestrians.
To study ways to revitalize the area, the city’s board of trustees formed a business planning coalition, comprising building owners, senior management of the corporate tenants and department stores, representatives of the Chamber of Commerce, civic associations and city staff. The committee addressed issues such as creating parking, improving lighting, slowing traffic, encouraging pedestrian activity, and evaluating needs of existing and future businesses.
Designed by New York-based William B. Kuhl and landscaped by Dix Hills, N.Y.-based Steven Dubner Landscaping, the project was completed two blocks at a time to minimize interference with pedestrian traffic. Pedestrian crosswalks with concrete paving stones were created to define the crosswalks and to slow traffic. Sitting areas, trash receptacles, bike racks, bus shelters, informational kiosks, arbors and decorative lighting systems were installed.
Extensive landscaping included plants that offer a range of seasonal blooms, fruits and colors. Additionally, a fountain, pavilion, village clock and rose garden provide gathering spots.
The project was funded through a $2.8 million bond issue and $100,000 in state funds; general funds provided the rest. Since the project was complete in June, new businesses, including a gourmet grocery store and restaurants, have moved into the area. Additionally, New York-based Smith Barney and the New York Sports Club have leased parts of one historical building, and other developers are looking into rehabilitating two old bank buildings.
