Revitalizing Downtown

The revitalization of downtown Fairfield has been a City priority for several years.  For the last couple of years, the City has been working to enhance the downtown pedestrian experience.

The first step the City took was to slow down car traffic downtown by replacing stop lights with stop signs. This has resulted in less cut-through traffic, less car noise, and a safer environment for pedestrians crossing the street. (More info here)

Streetscape Project Objective

The maturing aesthetics and street furnishings along Texas St. were first installed in 1990. The objective of the Streetscape Project is to create an economically vibrant and safe downtown for all users by enhancing the area between Pennsylvania Avenue and Jefferson Street.

Construction of the project will be phased to minimize impact to all users of downtown as well as City-sponsored events. Key streetscape improvements include:

· Removal of pergola structures

· Removal of concrete benches

· Removal of potted plants

· Replacement of brick pavers with integral color concrete

·  Plant new trees along Texas Street

· Installation of Glashoff Art Sculptures

Project Timeline

Phase 1: March - April 2024

Phase one will be refreshing the amenity zone along Texas St between Jefferson and Pennyslvania. The City has contracted Rx Lodge Inc. to complete Phase One Demolition which includes removal of concrete benches, pergolas, bike racks, and potted plants. This will create a cleaner walking environment and leave more room for restaurants to have outdoor dining.

Projected Timeline/Area (dependent on weather)

Demolition will occur in the green section as noted on the map below:

Construction will begin at the end of March and should be completed at the end of April, weather permitting. We do not anticipate impacts to either traffic or business access, however available parking on Texas Street will be reduced due to construction.

This video explains Phase One.

Phase 1B: Fall 2024

Phase one b will occur this fall and will involve the removal and replacement of the trees on Texas Street (with money from development fees). This is being done for a number of reasons:

• A good percentage of the trees on Texas Street are not healthy due to their environment
• Existing trees are not growing to full height
• Tree canopies are blocking business signage

After consulting with an arborist, the City has identified the Chinese Pistache as a tree that is better suited for a downtown environment. This tree will provide a shade canopy for pedestrians and clear business signage.

Renderings

Downtown Revitalization Exhibit

Placement Map

Farmers Market Boards

Option 1 Baseline

Option 2 Corner Plaza

Option 3 Ultimate