STREETSCAPE PROJECT

The Streetscape Project is a detailed plan for enhancing the beauty of historic downtown Decatur, Alabama, with the goal of increasing interest and attracting development. Early in 2008, work on the Streetscape plan began with the removal of several old crepe myrtles in a parking lot on Lee Street. The trees, which have been replaced by new white Natchez crepe myrtles, were instrumental to the Downtown Redevelopment Authority’s Streetscape Plan because of their location between the two main downtown districts. Streetscape projects are part of the 2010-2014 Strategic Plan.

Streetscape Plan Elements:

Extensive landscaping and street improvements along a corridor that runs through Decatur's two downtown districts
Develop and provide conceptual drawings of building facades and landscaping plans for empty lots in order to encourage interest by developers
Active promotion of downtown building facade renovation
Active promotion of decorative carved hanging signs for downtown merchants

PHASE 1: Lower Bank Street

Convert lower Bank Street from four lanes to two lanes, add a brick median, and widen the sidewalks
Convert parallel parking spaces into angled parking
Add trees and landscaping
Benches, planters, lighting, trash receptacles

PHASE 2: Second Avenue

Expand angled parking
Add trees and landscaping
Benches, planters, lighting, trash receptacles
Enhanced pavement features
Projecting traffic lights

PHASE 3: Lee Street and Lower Bank Street

Add trees and landscaping
Benches, planters, lighting, trash receptacles

Click on the images below for larger view.

Phase 1:

Phase One of Decatur Alabama Streetscape Plan

Phase 2:

Phase Two of Decatur Alabama Streetscape Plan

Phase 3:

Phase Three of Decatur Alabama Streetscape Plan

Members of the Authority, as well as other city officials, chamber members, and residents, were able to see first-hand the impact that streetscape projects can have on a downtown area. In 2007, the Decatur-Morgan County Chamber of Commerce sponsored a trip to Greenville, S.C., a city similar to Decatur. Greenville’s long-term downtown redevelopment plan also began with streetscape projects, such as planting new trees and widening the sidewalks. In the past 10 years, Greenville’s downtown area has been transformed into a bustling retail, arts and hospitality hub.