BSLA Fieldbook Issue 8 | Page 118

Photo | Charles Mayer

BSLA / LANDMARK AWARD

WALLACE FLOYD ASSOCIATES

Photo | Jerry Howard
Davis Square to Alewife Linear Park Cambridge / Somerville , Massachusetts
As described in Rail to Trails “ Trail link ”, Davis Square to Alewife Linear Park is a “ beautiful trail stretching 2 miles east from the Alewife T-station in Cambridge to Cedar Street in Somerville . The Park came about after the MBTA put its Red Line underground ; between the Alewife and Davis T-stations , the subway runs directly beneath the trail . The trail ’ s urban / suburban locale and its direct link to the Minuteman Bikeway make this a busy commuter and recreation corridor ….” One of the earliest urban multi-use trails in the Boston metropolitan area , the Park became the catalyst for the redevelopment of the surrounding neighborhoods and open space system . When the Park was designed , the rail ROW was lined with industrialproperties and residential neighbors who feared allowing public use of property so close to backyards .
Intended for recreation as much as commuting ; the undulating grading and trail layout was carefully designed for users to fully appreciate the lush landscape while remaining visible from street edges as safety was a key concern . The trail was clearly marked at 2 commercial streets with plazas and gateways .
The project is noteworthy for design quality and for its role in the transformation of its urban context . Following park construction , 27 acres of adjacent underutilized industrial property were redeveloped for housing and retail use . Adjacent Russell Field and connections to the Minuteman Bikeway were redesigned and / or renovated and an extension of the Linear Park was continued through the City of Somerville , allowing for thousands of residents to access the Minuteman Bikeway .
Most telling is the attitude of the Park ’ s neighbors who over the years have created their own direct access to the Park – it is an important amenity enjoyed at both a local and regional level and a precedent setting project for successful urban trails .
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