A charrette is a collaborative process that involves the development of a clear, concise, and specific vision for the area of focus. In a charrette, members of the architecture and planning profession interact and exchange ideas with policy makers, developers, and members of the community, in order to create a vision which incorporates solutions and address concerns from each of the groups. This involves the examination of the existing condition of an area, and the analysis of the area through photographs, maps, charts, demographics, and existing plans or proposals. The purpose of a charrette is to not only envision an area, but the create the method for that vision to be realized. Thus it is necessary to set realistic limitations and work with those who create the policies that shape our built environment.
The goal of our first charrette was to address urgent specific issues, while also to create a framework that can bring about future charrettes to create a long-term vision of University City.
While UDI intends to promote better growth and infrastructure in the University City area, it was essential that we focus on specific issues and accomplish at a scale that can leave a reasonable and lasting impact. The issues we dealt with at our first charrette include:
Design guidelines for University City Boulevard
Design of a new front entrance to campus
Design of a future student union building
Implementation of a bus system: probable routes and service points
Pedestrian and bicycle improvements along University City Boulevard
Streetscape and signage improvements along University City Boulevard
