How do you want to see the Bangor Waterfront grow? The area along the Penobscot River has been transformed over many years, but work continues. Recently, a design and engineering studio released a study of what could be possible for the city’s valuable outdoor space.
You may have heard the study includes a proposal for a permanent covered performance facility, plus multi-use green space, all with seating for thousands of concertgoers. But did you know it also proposes something called a woonerf?
Here are a few details from the report that could one day become reality:
Woonerf
“Woonerf” means “living streets” in Dutch. It might consist of new paving along Railroad Street, allowing mixed pedestrian and vehicular space. The model is a common one in urban areas in Europe where pedestrians, cars and bicycles can mingle (slowly).
Hardscape
Workers could add “surface treatment,” such as concrete or pavement, to green areas, to allow cars, trucks and emergency vehicles to pass when needed.
Wayfinding
“Wayfinding” is a fancy word for signage. In multiple languages or graphics, the signs would help tourists navigate the area, especially when they come for concerts.
Winter city
In the winter, paths could be used for skiing, ice skating and snowcross.
Underpass
The Dutton Street underpass can get dark at night. Why not add lighting?
Pedestrian bridge
It could pass over the railroad tracks, from Main Street, to deliver people directly to concerts.
Container kiosks
They look like shipping containers, but they’re green, sustainable and temporary, and you can serve food out of them.
Artful benches
As the study says, “Benches can be more than just utilitarian. They can be fun, challenging and interactive, designed by local artists.”
Water
Water features such as fountains could “act as accents to the park,” according to the study.
Shade
Small fabric shades could be placed in key areas to give people a place to escape the sun.
What would you like to see for the waterfront? If you haven’t checked out the full master plan, you can read it in its entirety by clicking here.
