Subway Architecture

I've been working on two transit related projects, lately. (Thanks to the hope of Stimulus money). One of the biggest questions facing the cities that transit resides in, is whether to go underground or above ground. The forces of the economy seem to suggest that above ground options are more feasible. However, underground means that the experience of the city, at-ground-level, is more continuous and human scaled.

The options, so often program is allocated in plan, are often to put the tracks side by side with the other uses intended to benefit or support the station. If we think vertically, there is the possibility of more connection within a smaller footprint.

Designboom is a website that looks at many aspects of design from industrial to interior to civic. There are some wonderful images of underground stations throughout the world that can serve as inspiration for thinking bigger.

Under the Transbay Terminal

Under the Transbay Terminal
Originally uploaded by gojanelin

This would be a pretty dismal space, it is underneath the Transbay Terminal. But with these lights, a public art installation, it becomes a more inviting place. The whole facility will be redone (timeline may stretch, a little) with a design determined by competition. This underpass is a major gateway to the city, with many vehicles traveling from the first exit off the Bay Bridge (Fremont Street exit). This is a major casual commute drop-off, and many pedestrians pass under it every morning. It's a surprise and a delight, and it gives the impression that it may not smell like pee anymore...

Walnut Creek Shuttle Route 4

Walnut Creek Shuttle Route 4
Originally uploaded by gojanelin

Here it is! Free public transportation. Will you still drive? Yes! Why? How successful is the route? How is it supported? Why don't you use it?

Route 4 connects the Walnut Creek BART Station to the extensive downtown and all the major parking structures. And, it looks like a trolley not a bus, which should make it even more inviting.

Bus Rapid Transit on Telegraph

Bus Rapid Transit on Telegraph
Originally uploaded by gojanelin

Line 1R is the Rapid Bus line that runs north south in the East Bay. There is a display in this bus stop showing the time until the next express service bus. AC Transit explains Bus Rapid Transit. There is also the possibility of dedicated, priority bus lanes.