Students:
Mariam ElSheikh [Mech Eng II]
Jumana AlHaideri [Civil Eng III]
Javaria Asif [Civil Eng and Mgmt III]
Problem:
City cores are structured to accommodate car mobility with significantly less focus on pedestrians and cyclists as seen by the amount of land space that is dedicated solelyto parkinginfrastructure. The parking spaces are often underutilized which results in wasted revenue and land space. This project addresses the issue of land sustainability in parking infrastructure design. The location of the pilot is the Yorkdale parking structure at MacNabSt. and York Blvd.
Process:
Case studies: Alaska The Rooftop, Molson Canadian rooftop ice rink 120 Adelaide St. W, Toronto
Consulted:
- Jason Thorne (Planning and Economic Development, City of Hamilton (COH)) on the Rebecca parking lot transformation and Yorkdale structure technical specifications
- Suzi Ozer (Operational Manager Downtown BIA) on budgeting and event planning
- Ken Coit (Public Arts & Projects, COH) on the Jackson Square rooftop park pitfalls
Brainstormed with Peter Topalovic (Sustainable Mobility, COH) and Emily Walsh (Community Engagement, Downtown BIA) about potential space usage, aesthetics and recreational activities
Site visits: multiple parking lots at different times on weekends and weekdays
Solution:
We propose a pilot project for a transformation of the Yorkdale parking structure rooftop since it’s an underutilized parking space. The pilot aims to develop a public space that is easily accessible that offers recreational activities (concerts, food, skating) that will revitalize the area and provide a more close-knit community. This project could encourage people to use public transit when travelling to downtown. In addition, this project can serve as a revenue stream for the city to encapsulate the value of property and provide economic and social sustainable means.
Next Steps:
- Conduct surveys for public opinion
- Explore future partnerships for project implementation and sponsorships
- Metrics to evaluate pilot success
- Legalities (Permits, Safety Procures, etc.)