Research Presentations at BNIM

This week, KCDC took the streetcar down to BNIM to present the past few weeks of research that we have done for the Greenline. Architects at BNIM provided great sources for us to better understand climate change in Kansas City and challenges that are specific to our area. This research will inform how we will be designing the Greenline Project, as well as concerns that need to be addressed to make the future a reality.

The total research for the project was split into five different groups: Community Connectivity, Social Equity, Environment and Ecology, Urban and Economic Impact, and Public Space and Characteristics. Community Connectivity would focus on the interactions between the larger transportation networks plus the historic parks and boulevard system. This would inform us how many people travel in Kansas City and the possibilities that we are looking forward to. Social Equity would focus on the social differences between the neighborhoods that make up Downtown KC and what their needs and wants are. Environment and Ecology focused on the current and future environmental impact that Kansas City has. Important things that they are asked to consider is the importance of water drainage and migratory species. Urban and Economic Impact would look into the gentrification that has and could occur within Kansas City. Additionally, taking on the question of reversing historic redlines. Public Space and Characteristics would study the common use of buildings and noteworthy aspects of our city.

With this information, we will be moving into the initial design phase and making use of our research. We are splitting into four teams based on segments of the Greenline, with groups focused on the North, East, South, and West segments to address the distinct alignment opportunities and challenges within each area.

Written by Brady Smith, Architecture Student