Revitalizing Industrial Spaces: Transforming an IBZ into a Dynamic Urban Hub

Developing Sustainable Community-Oriented Infrastructure and Policies

Collaborators: Leah Carpenter (Cornell MRP '24) and Chu Han Tarn (Cornell M.S.AUD '24)

Instructor: Jesse LeCavalier

Introduction:

The project focuses on revitalizing an industrial business zone (IBZ) that currently lacks residential zoning, public spaces, and active stewardship. The site is characterized by abandoned infrastructure and underutilized land, making it ripe for transformation.

Project Overview: The project proposes a long-term vision to repurpose the site through a series of economic and design strategies. These strategies aim to address economic instability, enhance mobility, and create vibrant public and community spaces, integrating industrial use with urban living.

Design Features: Key design features include the adaptive reuse of existing infrastructure, the creation of affordable housing through strengthened squatter’s rights, and the transformation of waterfront parcels into floodable, accessible public parks. Over 20 years, these interventions will establish a dynamic, sustainable urban environment.