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Urban Design Study     Farmer Forum        

This project was developed for the local Community and Economic Development Board -      R. Dean Randalls, Architect 

 Project Design Elements  >>>             URBAN DESIGN      PLANNING     ARCHITECTURE     ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT      CONSTRUCTION      GRAPHICS       STUDIES

      R. Dean Randalls, Architect    ARCHITETT.com

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The Forum is an ongoing urban design effort first started in 2005.  The vision speaks for itself.  

After developing the virtual renderings from concepts expressed at visioning sessions, I began to develop a 3D CAD model of the district as it would look fully renewed.  Design concepts included converting an abandoned rail line through a blighted area into a vital thriving linear park that would generate new economic development along the corridor,  from new mixed use projects in vacant historic warehouses to new high-density residential and hotel developments. At the center of the district: Farmer Forum, a small conference center.

Even though the excitement generated by the virtual renderings has since been tempered by the recent world economic correction, the vitality and sustainability of the ideas depicted remain the core vision for the area.   Several buildings depicted have since been demolished, along with their historic facades, and only one has been replaced.   A residential development along Forum Way was in full development in spring ‘08 with commitments for several units, but the project has since been put on hold as many of the commitments have since failed.  As well, property rights of the rail spur are now in dispute, and the local economy has been particularly challenged by loss of jobs in the automotive and steel industries..