Downtown Bangor has seen a resurgence of economic activity, investment in historic restorations, and public infrastructure enhancements projects in recent years. Several localized projects have addressed portions of the downtown – including a new transportation center and waterfront park development. This project entailed a comprehensive study to improve circulation, character, safety, and the overall function of the downtown area.

This study was funded through MaineDOT as part of the Planning Partnership Initiative (PPI). The work was led by Sewall in collaboration with Tandem and Viewshed. At Tandem, Jessica led the landscape architectural components of the study, managed the public engagement, and worked with engineers to develop recommendations.

The study explored bold design concepts, including the potential for introduce two-way vehicular circulation in the downtown through the use of urban roundabouts; the development of a shared plaza space designed for both pedestrians and vehicles; and the activation of a new riverfront parkway connecting the Kenduskeag Stream Trails to the Penobscot Waterfront Park. The recommendations integrate proposed bike lines throughout the study area and strategic traffic calming measures to improve the overall function of downtown Bangor.

Through the continued support of MaineDOT and the Bangor community, the concepts and recommendations put forth in this study will lead to built improvements in downtown streetscapes.