This Transportation and Land Use Study for the City of Troy combines the efforts of the Synthesis, project leader River Street Planning & Development, and Transportation Concepts to develop a schematic design for a viable mixed-use area, civic green space, trails, and reconfiguration of traffic patterns. Synthesis developed a comprehensive land use plan for an area comprising more than 9,000 linear feet of frontage on the Hudson River and extending several blocks east into the city. The challenge of this project is that it includes some heavy industry and the county jail, in addition to a historic site, homes, schools, churches, and some commercial activity. Synthesis’ proposal includes a riverwalk with promenade, a new riverfront park with amphitheater, a green spine along the banks of the Poestenkill Creek which empties into the river, and planning for commercial and retail space.

Transportation planning is an integral part of the land use plan. Transportation Concepts’ analysis resulted in a proposal to reconfigure traffic patterns to better separate heavy commercial traffic from residential areas and to lighten traffic flow along the green spine by the Poestenkill Creek.

This commission involved a great deal of interaction with the community. Synthesis conducted design charettes which drew approximately 150 neighborhood residents. Throughout the project, the consultants continued to communicate with the community by making presentations of design proposals.