NP Avenue & 1st Avenue North Corridor Development Plan
Project Overview
In the 1950s and 60s, one-way pairs were implemented in many cities across the U.S. (including Fargo) in an attempt to rid downtowns of traffic congestion. The relative efficiency of one-way streets in moving traffic and reducing congestion without street widening or the construction of new facilities was a common response to the shopping mall phenomenon and suburban migration.
During the 1990s, a trend around the U.S. began to convert some one-way streets back to two-way operations. It was not that the one-way street strategy failed, or that traffic volumes decreased. However, the prevailing wisdom was that two-way streets could enhance a neighborhood’s environment; reduce speeds to levels more compatible with pedestrian traffic; and that a "busy" street could be an indicator of a healthy business environment. Some cities have reported improved business climate, higher retail sales, better neighborhoods, and increased property values following conversions. There are pros and cons for one-way streets and two-way streets, however conditions change with time and differ from one city or street to another. Read More (pdf)
Objective
The objective of this study is to analyze the current traffic operations and conditions germane to the NP Ave/1st Ave corridors; determine future downtown infrastructure needs, identify alternatives for the two corridors, analyze the impacts of each alternative with respect to cost, traffic operations, transit, safety, emergency vehicle movement, parking, loading zones, economic vitality, aesthetics, bicycling, and pedestrian movement. In addition to the operational issues, the consultant must devote significant resources to analyze the potential economic, social, environmental, and development issues associated with the alternatives.
Mission Statement
This study will recommend a plan that accommodates all travelers; pedestrians, bicyclists, transit users and drivers. The plan's design and safety features will improve the physical health of individuals, the environmental quality of the community and further increase opportunities for development.
Comments & Suggestions
If you have comments, suggestions or questions regarding the NP and 1st Avenue North Corridor Development Plan. Please send an email to: feng@cityoffargo.com