Project Overview
The current Downtown Frederick streetscape was implemented in the early 1990s. In recent years, streetscape deficiencies have become apparent as downtown has experienced strong revitalization and as the current facilities have aged. Streetscape limitations have been further magnified as result of overall trends toward complete streets supporting multi-modal transportation, accessible pedestrian routes, outdoor dining and friendly parking.
In 2021, Downtown Frederick Partnership and The City of Frederick engaged Design Collective and RK&K to study the streetscapes of Market and Patrick Streets within Downtown Frederick. This study aimed to create thoughtful design solutions, set priorities and determine a framework for future streetscape improvements for the many users (pedestrians, bicyclists, motorists, etc.) and uses (shopping, dining, events, city services, etc.) of the downtown streets.
The study area includes Market Street (between South & Seventh Streets) and Patrick Street (between Bentz & East Streets). For both streets, the streetscape study area focuses on a 60-foot zone that includes sidewalks, parking spaces and travel lanes. East Street is another key corridor in Downtown Frederick that is being addressed by a separate City planning process.
A critical component throughout the planning effort was to gather public input on existing conditions and feedback on proposed concepts. After two community workshops, a public survey which received 1,932 responses and seven months of study, the City and the Partnership published a final draft report in December 2021. The report provides critical data and insight that can inform how future improvements may best address downtown’s current streetscape limitations. Next steps include completing additional studies related to parking and utilities as well as seeking funding for detailed project design documents. The project design development process will include opportunities for community input.
Streetscape Study Timeline
The process to create the final draft report included two virtual public workshops. The first workshop (view a recording of the first workshop here) held on May 5, 2021 included 65 attendees and provided the opportunity for open discussion and idea-sharing. Workshop facilitators primarily listened during this workshop, providing initial background information and then opening the remainder of the time to small group discussions.
The information gathered to date by the consultant team was discussed at the May 26 Mayor & Board Workshop. View a recording of the May 26 workshop here.
The consultants then developed a set of initial design concepts and presented them during the second virtual public workshop (view a recording of the second public workshop here) on June 22, 2021 with nearly 100 people in attendance. After a robust public engagement process and the development of design concepts that balance the often-competing needs of those who use the downtown area, the City and the Partnership brought the results from the initial streetscape study, as well as recommendations for future study to further refine the proposed designs, to the November 17, 2021 Mayor and Board of Aldermen Workshop. View a recording of the Nov 17 workshop here.
This project is made possible with support from the Ausherman Family Foundation and the City of Frederick’s Department of Economic Development and Planning Department.
