Client: City of Ventura & Southern California Association of Governments

31 Acres, approximately

RNT worked with the City of Ventura and Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) on the U.S. 101 Capping Project. This project studied the potential of reconnecting the City of Ventura’s urban environment to the beachfront, which are currently bisected by the 101 Freeway. RNT also lead the Outreach and Urban Design services for the Phase II conceptual plan. Our team worked extensively with Caltrans, Union Pacific Railroad, the City and the community to create a functional and economically viable solution for Downtown Ventura and the larger SCAG region.

Design study objectives included:

• Develop a realistic and meaningful urban design plan with thorough examination of the existing infrastructure (including planned improvements) and an inclusive community outreach process

• Increase Downtown’s connection to the beach to enhance the experience for tourists and locals by creating a cleaner and greener community

• Describe design guidelines and implementation strategies that utilize the existing Downtown Specific Plan, resulting Form Based Code

• Develop a plan that can be implemented through phases over time, (based on funding availability)

• Progress the dialog regarding freeway capping policy issues in the SCAG region

• Protect existing coastal views and study opportunities to create new viewshed

• Identify appropriate locations for a new regional multi-modal transit center and convenient beach access