JTA's JRTC Design Showcase

[Steve]

I would agree that while I liked the Pond proposal the best, the cost numbers are sketchy to me.

Regarding KBJ (assuming you work there), if I can ask a question: I'd agree that the KBJ proposal was lacking a little in pedestrian connectivity. To me, that seems like a trend in KBJ's designs over the years-a few examples are One/Two Prudential Plaza, Independent Square, and the Southern Bell Florida HQ. All of these are pretty iconic from a distance, but not amazing at pedestrian scale. Granted many of these were years ago, but I have to say, there was a part of me that said, "Typical KBJ" when I saw it.

As someone who (I'm assuming) wasn't part of any of the projects I mentioned, what do you think.

BTW, I'm asking in relation to the JRTC, and not trying to hijack the thread.

[GradedWash]

That is quite a loaded question. I don't know I can answer here without diverting too much off topic. But first, I'm new to KBJ I joined the firm about 6 months ago. Secondly, KBJ was founded the year my father was born... So because of those reasons there, I can't say I was collaboratively working on the projects you suggested. 

I think KBJ has had the unique opportunity of being around so long that they have created most of the skyline of Jacksonville. Which will of course give you a lot of positive and negative feedback just because the span of architecture style and time.

I think you can look back at a lot of skyscrapers built around the times of Modis and the like and say the same thing. I am newer to the designation of Registered Architect, and this may be only my opinion, but I feel Architects are starting to pay more attention to pedestrian scale in cities.

That may be all I can say on here about the topic which could be discussed at a huge length getting into the history of architecture, planning, and landscape design. 

[Non-RedNeck Westsider]

That may be all I can say on here about the topic which could be discussed at a huge length getting into the history of architecture, planning, and landscape design.

As you'll find from hanging out here a bit more, moderators have a penchant for separating topics when they diverge a tad to far from the original.  That said, you'll probably be less than thrilled with the spin-off title... it's a skill that seems to evade even the most gifted writers on this site. 

Or, feel free to open your own thread on whatever subject you would like to discuss.  That's one of the benefits to having an open forum such as this.  You might actually be amazed at some of the more intelligent sarcastic opinions discussions that tend to dwell here.

[KenFSU]

Here's the video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DXz9hqd0AS4

[Todd_Parker]

I like the Pond design, however, I was hoping a pedestrian walkway between the Skyway and Prime Osborn/JT would not be a "future consideration". It reminds me of the street level retail on the Parador parking garage that should have been included during the initial build and not some aspect to revisit when certain benchmarks are met (translation: You won't be getting street retail).

Perhaps a Skyway station can be incorporated into the new convention center when it is built along the river.

[Jaxson]

I am hoping that a new Amtrak station will be part of the JRTC. 

[thelakelander]

It won't be a part of what was approved. It's something that could be added at a later date.

[UNFurbanist]

Eventual Amtrak and Brightline integration could really do A LOT for the area and downtown overall!

[SightseerLounge]

Eventual Amtrak and Brightline integration could really do A LOT for the area and downtown overall!
[/quote

Brightline???

[thelakelander]

^Brightline is All Aboard Florida



http://www.allaboardflorida.com/

[SightseerLounge]

Okay! Just making sure!

[SightseerLounge]

I still think that some sort elevated loop should be constructed for Amtrak so that it doesn't have to make that back up move.

This should be done while there is still a little room down there in that area.

It can be done.