APA NY Upstate Chapter recognizes two Bergmann-led projects with 2021 Professional Awards

The American Planning Association (APA) NY Upstate Chapter has awarded two Bergmann-led projects with 2021 Professional Awards, which will be recognized at the organization’s 2022 Chapter Conference.

The Lark Street Improvement Study for the City of Albany Department of Planning and Development and LivCo (Livingston County) Wayfinding Strategy for the Genesee Transportation Council each were honored with “Best Practice” awards. This award is given to a planning tool, practice, program, project, or process that is a significant advancement to specific elements of planning, with emphasis placed on results and how the best practice helps promote efforts to foster greater participation in planning.

“As a team, we are incredibly proud to have played a role in these projects, each of which will have a great impact on these communities for years to come,” stated Kimberly Baptiste, AICP, Vice President at Bergmann. “The most successful community planning and enhancement projects are built on a foundation of collaboration, innovation and open dialogue among all project and community stakeholders. These awards are a direct reflection of this. Congratulations to our clients at the City of Albany, Livingston County and Genesee Transportation Council and to all of the team members involved!”

The Lark Street Improvement Study examines the feasibility of a variety of different streetscape improvements along Lark Street in downtown Albany to enhance the public realm, improve walkability and safety, create a unique sense of place, and catalyze economic development. Informed by extensive public outreach, existing plans, data collection and analysis, and a temporary demonstration project, this Study identified feasible and transformative streetscape improvements and provided the City with an implementation strategy, including cost estimates and phasing, programmatic, and policy recommendations. Funding has already been secured for design and construction of the first phase of proposed improvements.

Livingston County identified the need to undertake a County-wide wayfinding study to improve vehicular and pedestrian navigation, support economic development and visually connect the nine villages and destinations throughout the County with uniform and consistent signage. Incorporating feedback from a robust public engagement strategy and building off of numerous County and Regional initiatives, this study lays the groundwork for an informative, functional and identifiable wayfinding system. Detailed cost estimates and implementation strategies were identified for each of the nine Villages to plan for future capital improvement programming and grant opportunities. In addition to wayfinding, this study provides recommendations and general streetscape design guidelines to help create inviting, comfortable and navigable environments in each of the nine Villages.

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For over 40 years, Bergmann architects, engineers and planners have delivered results to clients across the United States and Canada. In late 2021, we joined Colliers Engineering & Design, forming a collective team of 1,800+ talented professionals in over 60 locations nationwide, who connect with partners and communities to create dynamic, creative solutions that stand the test of time, while promoting environmental and functional sustainability. Our projects range from signature buildings and commercial developments to critical transportation infrastructure and community planning. For more information, visit www.bergmannpc.com.