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Accessibility and <br />Sustainability <br />Access <br />The Highline in New York City, for example, <br />incorporates integrated elevator systems to <br />accommodate ADA access. Alternatively, the <br />606/ Bloomingdale Trail in Chicago provides <br />ADA access through long paths graded at a <br />gentle 5% slope. Allegheny Riverfront Park in <br />Pittsburg traverses 30’ of grade change, from <br />elevated highway to river level through elegant <br />ramping systems that integrate public art, <br />tree planting, and overlook prospects. While <br />there may not be the area needed for ramp <br />systems for this project, lessons learned from <br />such projects may provide valuable insight for <br />consideration. <br />For example, at Allegheny Riverfront Park, the <br />attenuated ADA access ramps are strategically <br />positioned to create a “sound shadow” that <br />mitigates noise from the adjacent highway. <br />Additionally, the gentle and inviting slope <br />welcomes senior citizens, families with <br />strollers, and mobility-challenged citizens. <br />They also provide access for bicycles, police <br />patrol, and emergency vehicles. Elevators <br />require significantly less space and are used <br />very successfully at the Highline in New <br />York City, and Promenade Plantee in Paris. <br />However, elevators are expensive, heavy, <br />slightly less inviting, and may present unique <br />challenges in the heat of a tropical climate. <br />Both strategies, along with others, present <br />their own opportunities related to ADA <br />accessibility and will likely be a critical part of <br />the project’s success. <br />Sustainability <br />Where possible, we are interested in making <br />the Sunny Isles 174th Street Elevated Bridge as <br />sustainable and resilient as possible. <br />For example, the incorporation of native <br />plant material into the project can reduce <br />maintenance, water, energy, and chemicals as <br />well as provide natural habitat and contribute <br />to the authentic character of south Florida. <br />Harvesting of rainwater for irrigation, the use <br />of locally sourced materials, use of non-toxic <br />materials, and sensitivity to light pollution <br />and energy consumption can help make this <br />project a shining example of green building <br />technology. Additionally, careful consideration <br />relative to storm surge issues and the effects of <br />increased storm intensity and frequency, and <br />other resiliency imperatives should drive all <br />aspects of the design. <br />Project Approach <br />17 <br />City of Sunny Isles | Request for Qualifications No. 19-11-01