By Maryam Oyebamiji

The first board of my site analysis project displays the location of the Southside in relation to the main Volker Campus. This helps viewers to better understand the context of my project and the surrounding area. It also highlights the opportunities and challenges associated with developing the Southside, given its proximity to the main campus and the Trolley Track Trail. By presenting this information in a clear and concise manner, I aimed to provide a solid foundation for the rest of my site analysis.

In addition to the context map, the second board also includes proposed developments for the Southside. These developments were carefully selected based on the needs of the community and the potential for economic growth. They include a skatepark, renovated buildings, and the Epperson Apartments. These developments were chosen with the intention of creating a more vibrant and diverse community while maintaining the unique character of the Southside.

Context map and Proposed Developments

Connectivity

To further enhance the connectivity of the Southside area, I created a node map that highlighted the intersections between the Trolley Track Trail and the proposed new bike lanes. This map would help to improve navigation for pedestrians and cyclists in the area and promote safe and efficient travel.

In addition to improving the connectivity, I also wanted to improve the overall quality of the Trolley Track Trail. To do this, I proposed changing the pavement from gravel to recycled materials, which would create a more durable and sustainable surface for trail users.

Cost and Implementation

I broke down the cost and phasing into five phases. The first phase, demolition, involved the removal of any existing structures that were beyond repair or no longer needed. This created more space for new developments or renovations and set the stage for the rest of the project.

During the second phase of my site plan for the Southside Village, I focused on improving the pavement of the Trolley Track Trail. To do this, I evaluated the existing pavement material and decided to make a significant change from gravel to a more eco-friendly option made from recycled rubber. This change would not only improve the overall appearance of the trail, but also make it more durable and long-lasting.

Additionally, as part of this phase, I also included the installation of a new bike lane at the entrance of Southside Village. This would enhance the safety of cyclists by providing a designated space for them to ride and would encourage more people to use the trail for transportation and recreation. By prioritizing these improvements in the second phase of the project, I could create a more functional and sustainable site plan for the Southside Village that met the needs of the community. The pavement process would also include the construction of the skate park

The third phase involved landscaping, where I evaluated and improved the existing landscape of the property. This included removing dead trees or shrubs, adding new plantings, enhancing the landscape. I could improve the overall aesthetic appeal of the property and create a more welcoming environment.

In the fourth phase of my site plan for the Southside Village, I focused on the renovation of the Epperson and Education buildings. These buildings were key components of the site and required significant updates to enhance their functionality and modernize their appearance.

In addition, I focused on creating a more welcoming and collaborative environment by incorporating more open spaces and shared work areas within the buildings. This would allow for increased collaboration and communication among occupants, ultimately leading to a more productive and engaged community.

The final phase of my site plan included constructing the South Campus Dining Hall and the Wellness Ball. The dining hall provides a central location for meals and socializing with a modern and inclusive atmosphere. The Wellness Ball offers a safe and peaceful environment with comfortable seating, calming colors, and soft lighting for students to relax and recharge.

Wellness at UMKC

It’s important to note that the wellness center is more than just the wellness ball. It’s a space designed to promote physical and mental health among students, staff, and faculty. The center typically offers a range of services and resources, such as fitness classes, mental health counseling, nutritional counseling, and health education programs.