1.
Improve Connections
There
are many connections along and across the Avenue that
need to be improved. Specifically, the intersection
of Furman and Columbia Streets, Boerum Place and Fourth
and Flatbush Avenues.
2.
Create Development Opportunities
The
neighborhoods surrounding Atlantic Avenue are undeserved
by retail. The current vacancy rate is about 5%, or
roughly 37,000 square feet, comprised of several small
spaces. With the surrounding neighborhoods having
tremendous spending power, the challenge for new development
is not market, but rather availability of space. The
master plan focuses on identifying prime development
sites that with appropriate incentives serve as catalysts
for change.
3.
Create Gateways to the Avenue
Most
people first experience Atlantic Avenue through one
of the major gateways; the Brooklyn Queens Expressway
(BQE) and future Brooklyn Bridge Park on the East
River, Boerum PLace from the Brooklyn Bridge, and
the Fourth Avenue/Flatbush Avenue intersection at
Times Plaza. Each of these locations has the opportunity
to provide a unique arrival experience to Atlantic
Avenue.
4.
Organize the Public Realm/Streetscape
There
are many areas of the Avenue that have beautifully
developed streetscape elements. However, the Avenue
suffers from gaps in the streetscape amenities. Specifically,
gaps between street trees and street/pedestrian lighting.
Improvements to the overall streetscape character
and image can be accomplished by infilling these gaps.
5.
Improve Parking
A
major issue for the merchants on the Avenue is the
lack of parking and the negative impacts of the peak
hour parking regulations. A primary focus on the master
plan is identifying areas for improvement with the
parking regulations.
6.
Implement Priorities
The
consultant team, with guidance from the
Leadership Conference, established seven Implementation
Priorities as a result of this master plan.
