I o w a D e p a r t m e n t o f T r a n s p o r t a t i o n T r e e s F o r e v e r I S U L a n d s c a p e A r c h i t e c t u r e E x t e n s i o n I S U E x t e n s i o n C o m m u n i t y a n d E c o n o m i c D e v e l o p m e n t Summer 2014

PocahontasLandscape Architect and Intern: RDG Planning & Design - Jen Cross, PLA, ASLA and Anne HundleyIowa Highway 3 Corridor Improvements

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Highway 3 is one of the main vehicular corridors through

Pocahontas. This corridor currently lacks street presence and is only

oriented toward vehicular transportation. Focus group findings

reveal that this corridor is perceived to be barren and in need of

trees. This corridor maintains a large right-of-way and in some

locations presents an area for new multi-use trail routes, vegetation,

and storm-water management. The corridor currently has two types

of right-of-way: one with local businesses and parking lots adjacent

to the roadway, and the second with businesses set back from the

roadway with large mowed lawn frontages. To create a pedestrian-

friendly corridor, increased plantings, way-finding signage, and

pedestrian access is needed to assist in slowing down traffic. The

presence of trees would help to visually narrow the large right–of-

way, causing traffic to slow as drivers recognize they are entering

town and could encounter pedestrians.

The first scenario presents an opportunity for stormwater

management, new sidewalks, and street trees. This portion of

the corridor is currently curbed and pavement is primarily present

beyond the back of curb. The right-of-way does vary through

these blocks and working with property owners is key in creating a

successful corridor. Primary improvements would take place from

the elementary school to Main Street. Implementing storm-water

planters to catch the runoff from parking lots to help prevent flash

flooding in this area is a top priority. The current improvements do

not modify parking or the existing signage at Woods Supermarket.

Creating a generous sidewalk through this section of the corridor

will aid in safe pedestrian traffic and make the business district

more welcoming.

The second type of corridor is wide and traffic does not currently

slow to the posted speeds. Improvements to this corridor include:

introducing way-finding signage on existing light poles, increasing

the number of street banners, implementing street trees and native

plantings where applicable, and developing a 10’ multi-use trail

on the north side of Highway 3 to connect to Main Street and the

proposed trail system. These improvements provide a safe place for

pedestrians while creating a street presence for all to enjoy.

View West, Proposed Highway 3 Corridor Improvements at True Value Farm & Home Store

View East, Proposed Highway 3 Corridor Storm-water Management Improvements at Woods Supermarket & Deli Proposed typical plan in business district, narrow right-of-way

Existing Highway 3 corridor at True Value Farm & Home

Proposed typical plan at wide right-of-way

Existing storm water conditions at Wood’s Supermarket

Highway 3 Corridor Improvements