This past Saturday a set of architecture and landscape architecture students from the University of Virginia returned to the Bronx to present their visions for the future of the Sheridan Expressway footprint.

A community-based plan for the removal of the under-utilized highway is currently being studied by the NYS DOT as a result of advocacy by The South Bronx River Watershed Alliance, a coalition of which Tri-State is a member. The UVA architecture studios have worked semester-long to craft plans for parkland, affordable housing, mixed-use construction and access to the Bronx River; all possible should the Sheridan be removed.

The studio work was split between two groups of students. One set worked on a mixed-use plan for the entire footprint and on integrating the new land with the surrounding neighborhoods and the riverfront. The designers put a premium on livability and sustainability in their concepts, including on-site sewage treatment, maximum open space and a focus on pedestrian and common space.

Another group of students focused on the market plaza site at the southern tip of the project area.Their goal is to create a public space that will act as a destination and community center for the Longwood and Hunts Point neighborhoods.The concepts included dog parks, naturally landscaped amphitheaters and community athletic and artspaces.

The final projects will be presented at UVA in May. Thanks to all of the students and faculty that worked so hard on these projects. Their imagination and vision will help make this campaign a reality.