Western Boulevard

What was the Challenge?

In order to complete the Western Boulevard Construction Project, the designers at Barton & Loguidice had to develop unique solutions to the project obstacles.  Namely, the project required a high-volume parking lot (Stateway Plaza) be transformed into a major urban arterial which could support pedestrian and bicycle traffic year-round. This project also required a substantial amount of coordination with numerous stakeholders and local businesses.  Additionally, this project was constructed within a tight seasonal window which entailed winter construction and concrete pours.

How did Barton & Loguidice provide a solution?

Barton & Loguidice provided a design which featured 36-ft. wide highway, a 10-ft wide shared-use path, and a single-lane modern roundabout.  The width of the highway supported a two-way median to accommodate the various access needed to multiple Plaza businesses.  The roundabout efficiently serves opposing vehicle movements while offering an aesthetic focal point for the project.  Bicyclists and pedestrians alike are able to safety traverse Western Boulevard via the shared-use path.  New lighting installations were placed throughout the corridor to increase visibility.  Timely coordination with the City of Watertown and NYSDOT resulted in swift execution of the project construction.

Why was the project a success?

Western Boulevard is now a public thoroughfare with improved access to existing commercial properties and increased future economic opportunities. B&L worked tirelessly to provide a multi-modal corridor which promotes active transportation. The implementation of a roundabout has been well received by commuters since being opened in 2018. With support from both state and local government agencies, this new link fosters growth within the City of Watertown. New developers and businesses now seek to move into the Stateway Plaza, recognizing the value/mobility Western Boulevard provides. B&L’s experience and Downtown office presence served to usher this project from preliminary design through to construction. The Western Boulevard project exemplifies a successful complete-street project, transforming a highway construction project into much more than just a road.