A Human-Scale Redesign of University Boulevard in Tucson, Arizona

Abstract

Cities across the United States and the world have adopted Complete Streets principles in the design of streetscapes and roadways. Cities have also supported road closure to vehicle traffic at varying scales. These two strategies for sustainable development enhance the public benefit provided by streets. These benefits can include stronger social communities, safer roads across modes of transportation, and improved health of people and environments. This study proposes that Complete Streets principles be applied to University Boulevard in Tucson, Arizona to address current issues with sustainability on this road. This includes a lack of shade, seating, and infrastructure that results in an uncomfortable user experience for pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers. University Boulevard is adjacent to the University of Arizona campus in Tucson, Arizona and is a popular destination for dining and nightlife among students and long-time Tucson residents. Additionally, University Boulevard serves as a gateway to the University that many commuters rely on to get to school and work. By implementing the design proposed in this research, the City of Tucson can address current issues on this road.

This article proposes that the City of Tucson adopt both Complete Streets and car-free principles to complete a sustainable redesign of University Boulevard and increase the public benefit for users of this two-block stretch of road from Park Avenue to Euclid Avenue. This research was designed to engage the public in the visioning process for a future redesign of this road and measure levels of support for the closure of University Boulevard to vehicle traffic, as well as the perceived need for human-scale, sustainable design elements in any future redevelopment proposals.