This new public space on a vibrant retail block in the Ridgewood neighborhood of Queens builds on the success of an interim plaza design that allowed the community access to public open space. The redesign maintains that access and provides pedestrian safety improvements at a broad intersection. This effort is a NYC DDC project with design participation from NYC DOT and the Myrtle Avenue Business Improvement District.
MNLA used the project as an opportunity to showcase sustainable stormwater capture in the plaza. It is designed to capture west-bound stormwater surface runoff that runs along the realigned street curb before entering the plaza’s planted bioretention area. Both the expanded and newly created planting areas have native and adaptive drought tolerant plant species with a proven record of resilience within harsh urban environments. Movable furnishings and fixed planter seating edges provide a flexible space that can be programmed for neighborhood events.