Repositioning a historic downtown for a dynamic future.
Dig Studio collaborated on a new vision for Downtown Idaho Springs. During 2020-2021, this small former mining town closed three blocks of their main street to vehicle traffic to allow businesses to expand outdoors. This temporary adjustment was so successful and well-loved that it became and integral part of an overall strategy for improving the resident and visitor experience. A future parking structure and transit hub immediately off of I-70 also spurred plan recommendations for smoother traffic and parking operations, allowing for a flexible but permanent redesign of Miner Street.
Important components of the final plan include: Flexible, seasonal closure of Miner Street to vehicle traffic. Alley improvements that provide additional enhanced public spaces while still accommodating service and delivery functions. Improvements to Citizens Park to accommodate community gatherings year-round. New and enhanced parks and trails, including improved wayfinding for visitors, and a recreational and interpretative walking loop through the City. Streamlined parking access and vehicular circulation through the historic district.
An enhanced public realm aligned with streamlined parking and circulation that capitalizes upon historic assets and investing for a dynamic downtown
An implementation plan identified rough costs and short, medium and long-term prioritization of projects
