BETTER BLOCK RAPID URBAN REVITALIZATION PROJECTS

an implementation project of: A living charrette where communities can actively engage in the “complete streets” build out process to show the potential for revitalized economic activity in an area. WHAT IS A BETTER BLOCK? August 20122

an implementation project of: before after SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS San Antonio’s first Better Block Project, held in coordination with the City of San Antonio’s Complete Streets Initiative and Metro Health’s SiClovia, transformed a vacant building, overly wide streets, and empty park into a thriving, active neighborhood destination. WHAT IS A BETTER BLOCK? August 20123

an implementation project of: WHAT IS A BETTER BLOCK? before after FORT WORTH, TEXAS Over time, formerly pedestrian-oriented South Main was widened into a huge, barren four-lane road with fast traffic and very little people space. Better Block reoriented the street and demonstrated to other urban areas of the city how to make a “complete street.” August 20124

an implementation project of: WHAT IS A BETTER BLOCK? before FORT WORTH, TEXAS With a budget of under $500 to perform the guerilla complete streets makeover, bike lanes, cafe seating, landscaping, and pedestrian crossings were installed to spotlight the potential of an existing block that was built with little accommodations for people. August after

an implementation project of: WHAT IS A BETTER BLOCK? FORT LAUDERDALE, FLORIDA A bleak warehouse-lined block in the FAT Arts District of downtown Fort Lauderdale was transformed into a walkable destination during Build A Better Block.The up and coming artist community, normally lined with barbed wire and industrial warehouses, was converted into a lively community hub complete with art, music, and vendors. before after August 20126

an implementation project of: WHY BETTER BLOCK? PRODUCES CONCRETE RESULTS instead of showing an abstract sketch MAKES CITY/STATE STAFF/LEADERS’ JOBS EASIER with the temporary testing of ideas CREATES OWNERSHIP (and champions) in residents and business owners SHOWS DOCUMENTATION that disarms naysayers PROMOTES INNOVATION by testing the most innovative best practices on the ground PUSHES BOUNDARIES without the financial commitment August 20127

an implementation project of: AN EXPANDING MOVEMENT Gulf Coast Better Block Projects August USA Better Block Projects

an implementation project of: BETTER BLOCK OUTCOMES DALLAS, TEXAS The city dedicated $1 million to improve bicycle infrastructure, create a pedestrian plaza and incorporate traffic calming elements. The second Better Block resulted in a $500,000 investment from the city. FORT WORTH, TEXAS The city installed permanent bike lanes. Now called South Main Urban Village, this stretch of road is home to many new businesses. MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE Business in the area tripled, restaurants extended their hours to keep up with new demand, and real estate in the area has noticeably increased. People are returning more regularly and a museum is looking to relocate to the area. KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI A pop-up retail shop opened as a permanent retail establishment in downtown Kansas City. August 20129

an implementation project of: HOW TO BUILD A BETTER BLOCK August Pick your spot 2. Assemble a team 3. Work with local resources 4. Connect with something larger 5. Use empty storefronts 6. Give people a reason to stay 7. Pop up! 8. Invite artists 9. Obtain a permit 10. Invite local VIP’s 1. Pick your spot 2. Assemble a team 3. Work with local resources 4. Connect with something larger 5. Use empty storefronts 6. Give people a reason to stay 7. Pop up! 8. Invite artists 9. Obtain a permit 10. Invite local VIP’s

an implementation project of: BETTER BLOCK BATON ROUGE August

an implementation project of: BETTER BLOCK BATON ROUGE GOALS: -To find a unified vision among Baton Rouge’s stakeholders and potential investors for Government Street -To demonstrate the impact of an innovative traffic solution and improved public and retail spaces on economic and community development PARTNERS: POTENTIAL PARTNERS: All public and private schools, local neighborhood associations, area residents, businesses, artists… and YOU! August

an implementation project of: BETTER BLOCK BATON ROUGE Proposed Project Extents August

an implementation project of: BETTER BLOCK BATON ROUGE Existing Site Conditions August

an implementation project of: BETTER BLOCK BATON ROUGE Site Improvement Plan August

an implementation project of: BETTER BLOCK BATON ROUGE Proposed Infrastructure Improvements August

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an implementation project of: 1 BETTER BLOCK BATON ROUGE Proposed Human Element Improvements August

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an implementation project of: BETTER BLOCK BATON ROUGE Process Public/Private Space Survey Kickoff meeting PPS survey Preliminary list of stakeholders Site selection Gather existing plans Engage Community Build Team Stakeholder presentation CBT walk-through Volunteer assignments Facilitate CBT meetings Street/Traffic Control Build Plan Street sections Street survey and design Draft traffic control plan Materials and vendor list Presentation of temporary facilities Implementation Requirements Revised street design Revised traffic control plan Finalize materials to purchase or get from partners Gather materials Identity Package Social media Marketing print material Event program Video Community Outreach Community outreach plan Conduct outreach Better Block Weekend Checklist Coordinate agencies Coordinate volunteers Mobilization and installation Supplies On-site management Wrap-Up Metrics list Interview summary Summary memo Next steps report Photo log

an implementation project of: MARK YOUR CALENDARS! August STAY UPDATED Follow Better Block Baton Rouge online for updates and a calendar of volunteer events leading up to the launch! CONTACT Camille Manning-Broome Tara Titone Better Block Baton Rouge – March/April 2013