Downtown Brooklyn is the ultimate mixed-use district – and this action plan offers a design framework for its shared streets, parks and public spaces today and tomorrow.
– Claire Weisz

Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG) and WXY Architects have unveiled a vision for Downtown Brooklyn aimed at reanimating the 370ac (150ha) district with public spaces, recreation amenities and pedestrian-friendly streetscapes.

The two practices spent last year working on the Downtown Brooklyn Public Realm Action Plan – a study of the area's streets, sidewalks, plazas, parks, alleyways, intersections, underutilised spaces and other public spaces.

Carried out on behalf of the Downtown Brooklyn Partnership, which has been leading public realm initiatives in the district since 2004, the study characterised the area as a mix of "local and national retail and businesses; educational, cultural and government institutions; and a booming residential sector".

It also found that public spaces were used and animated by a "diverse mix of residents, visitors and workers".

The proposal seeks to capitalise on the existing character of the neighbourhood by introducing a cohesive streetscape with improved walkability, a safer environment for pedestrians and cyclists and new public furniture collections.

The amount of greenery in the area will be doubled and new art beacons will be installed, while a distinct colour palette will tie the area together.

It is hoped that plan will create an area where residents, workers and visitors can enjoy gathering outdoors, play sports and enjoy its diverse culture.

Claire Weisz, principal-in-charge at WXY, said: "Downtown Brooklyn is the ultimate mixed-use district – and this action plan offers a design framework for its shared streets, parks and public spaces today and tomorrow."

The plan and design will now be refined through stakeholder meetings during 2020.