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The
width and landscape of Western Avenue varies markedly. For example,
just east of I-640 there are seven lanes with the only natural landscape
being that of the cemetery. That section funnels down to the two lanes
that continue to Keith Avenue and is to be improved in the next few
years. The most recent road improvements included a landscaped median
at Mechanicsville Commons, an example of the type of planting space
that can improve the appearance of urban streets.
Recommendations:
- Future
road improvements east of I-640 should include landscaped medians
with separated sidewalks. Such a boulevard design should include street
trees that are included with project design and development. Trees
in planting wells are a potential landscape solution in some areas
(for example, near Mechanicsville where old commercial buildings were
constructed next to the sidewalk).
- Although
a 5-lane improvement has been proposed west of I-640, other designs
that would provide more opportunities for landscape improvements should
be studied, including a Parkside Drive-type design whereby access
points can be more clearly defined and trees can planted.
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