In a recent article in Morgantown Magazine, author Holly Leleux-Thubron highlights redevelopment ideas for Morgantown’s High Street from West Virginia University students. Landscape Architecture Professor Stefania Staniscia tasked seven students to reimagine the part of High Street adjacent to Courthouse Square. Here is what she asked of them:
- Determine a way to transform the area.
- Consider closing it off to traffic.
- Or, reducing the traffic lanes.
- Or develop ideas to create a more usable urban space for locals.
Various proposals included imaginative ideas such as defining the space with strings of overhead lights, evoking outdoor dining areas, or placing trees in large planters to bring more green to the open space. Their design show that they carved out seating and eating areas, event venues, and designated foot traffic locations to round out the ideas. One overarching concept was to see “less space for cars and more space for pedestrians,” according to Staniscia.
Courtesy of Google Maps
Look for the student’s final plans to be displayed soon. You’ll find them in the windows of the Citizens Bank or Morgantown building. Since the bank is located adjacent to Courthouse Square, viewers can study the various plans while contemplating the proposed designs in the space.
Living Near High Street
The idea of live/work spaces is not new. In fact, it has been around since the beginning of cities. But when an area redevelops, urban dwellers take a fresh look at living in or near to the places they shop, dine, work, and socialize. Living in urban areas is not just for young singles and universtiy students either. There is a lot to be said for locating your family near to social and cultural venues. It is also a great place for empty nesters to congregate and spend time together. Walking to meet friends for a cup of coffee or to your gym is healthier than having to drive in from the suburbs. If you’re interested in living in the heart of Morgantown, we can help you find the perfect place. You can learn about living in Morgantown, WV on our Explore Monongalia County page.
Here are properties near High Street and the Historic Downtown area of Morgantown:
