Watertown Streetscape Design Improvements

What was the problem?

The City of Watertown sought to revitalize its downtown core areas, including Court Street, Coffeen Street, Lachenauer Plaza, Washington Square, and Franklin Street, addressing safety, connectivity, aesthetics, and the creation of vibrant public spaces.

How did Barton & Loguidice provide a solution?

B&L completed the planning and design for this state-funded project, achieving the City’s goals by implementing:

• Court Street: Reconstruction with ADA-compliant pedestrian infrastructure, new pavement, new drainage infrastructure, signage and striping improvements, traffic calming measures (e.g. bumpouts to reduce pedestrian crossing distances), and aesthetic enhancements such as street trees, colored flexi-pave, thermoplastic crosswalks, and ornamental lighting.
• Coffeen Street:  Pavement rehabilitation, new ADA-compliant pedestrian infrastructure, drainage/utility improvements, and removal of latent contaminated materials.
• Lachenauer Plaza: Transformation into an attractive public space with brick veneer seating walls, landscaped plantings, colored concrete accents, and a new fountain with accent lighting.
• Washington Square: Improved access to the historic monument, new pedestrian amenities, raised planter boxes, accent lighting, colored/stamped asphalt, and streetscape treatments.
• Franklin Street: Enhanced pavement, sidewalks, driveway reductions, and raised planter beds for local businesses.

What was the result?

The project revitalized the downtown area, creating safer, more connected, and aesthetically pleasing spaces for pedestrians and businesses. Highlights include:

• Effective traffic calming with curb extensions and high-visibility crosswalks.
• Upgraded aging utility infrastructure throughout the project corridors.
• Enhanced public spaces with fountains, ornamental street lighting, ornamental walls, and complementary streetscape elements.
• Improved pedestrian safety/infrastructure and accessibility while preserving the City’s historic character.