Posted on October 1, 2014
2014 Great Public Space: Allen Street & College Avenue Intersection, State College Borough (Centre County)
Great Places Urban Design & Placemaking 2014
Commonly referred to as “The Corner,” this area is home to a thriving mix of residential, commercial and academic uses. It serves as a critical link between the front door to Penn State University (the “Gates of Old Main”) and downtown State College. In addition to its iconic image as the center point of town-gown connectivity, it is an important multi-modal transportation hub, a year-round popular gathering place, and focal point for many community events. Of particular note is the Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts, which attracts art exhibitors from around the world. According to the Downtown State College Master Plan, the overall concept is to establish this intersection as the “town square.” Many streetscape design enhancements and innovative practices are proposed to further enliven this public space.
