When looking at the 4th Avenue and 9th Street intersection, we felt it was important to focus on the following issues. First, the speed at which cars and trucks are allowed to drive down 4th Avenue. To help with this we reduced both the 4th Avenue and 9th Avenue streets down to one lane on each side while also providing a left turn lane. The reduced lanes will slow vehicular traffic and encourage other routes. Furthermore, we felt the lack of pedestrian space in the median created a likely area for pedestrians to be hit by oncoming vehicles. We increased the middle median to provide more space for walking and sitting. The wider median allows pedestrians a safe area to stand if they are caught in between lights. We also felt that creating available space for bicycle storage for individual’s bikes as well as a bike share program would assist in encouraging less vehicles and more bike riding. It was important to us that the bike lane be separated from the vehicular lanes by trees and car parking. By doing this, bikes no longer have to worry about doors opening on them.
To make the F subway stop more easily accessible, we are proposing that stairs be built in the center of the median that would lead up to a mezzanine for entering the subway station. An elevator would be provided to assist those who could not climb stairs. To add energy to the electrical grid, clear glass photovoltaic cells are proposed around the stairs, mezzanine and on the façade of the existing train overpass. While not yet available, clear photovoltaic glass is being tested and one day soon will be available. The tree lined streets are proposed to provide shade to the sidewalks and buildings to help with energy conservation.