Historic Four Corners of Penfield

These are some sketches of the Historic Four Corners of Penfield, which is where I live near the intersection of Penfield Rd and Five Mile Line Rd.  It's a place rich in history (which there is more detail about at: http://www.penfield.org/index.php?pr=dpt-historian-past) and a great place to walk with lots of small businesses and access to parks and trails.

An interesting blog about the Historic Four Corners of Penfield is: http://blogs.democratandchronicle.com/penfield/?p=2437.

One of my favorite buildings in the area is the iconic Wakan-Hubbard Masonic Temple (http://www.wakanhubbard.org/).  It's such a stately building.  

Thanks for letting me share my neighborhood and sketches.

UPDATE:
3/21/2013 - Board approves new Italian cafe, Rosey's expansion in Penfield from Penfield Post
http://www.penfieldpost.com/latestnews/x898152403/Board-approves-new-Italian-cafe-Roseys-expansion-in-Penfield

3/21/2013 - Landscaping office, cafe (5 Mile Cafe) proposals for Four Corners from Penfield Post

http://www.penfieldpost.com/latestnews/x898152430/Landscaping-office-cafe-proposals-for-Four-Corners

3/19/2013 - New Traffic Signals Planned For Four Corners Intersection from Penfield Post: http://www.penfieldpost.com/features/x766882924/Update-New-traffic-signals-planned-for-Four-Corners-intersection

Panorama Valley: Part II

Continued from Panorama Valley: Part I

The Panorama Valley redevelopment creates a traditional Upstate New York neighborhood while preserving and enhancing current green space.

Today, there is abundant open space between the strip mall and Irondequoit Creek that is underutilized.  This area is ignored and neglected as no windows view this space and it is lined with dumpsters, used tires, and other refuse.  New and refurbished buildings will be designed to face both the street and the new Panorama Park.

Current view of open space behind strip malls

New buildings will be designed to face both the street and the park.  Along the park is a promenade to encourage foot traffic and restaurants.  The lawn area provides ample space for personal recreation and community activities with the stage for theater, concerts, etc.

This aeriel view of the Irondequoit Creek area shows its underuse.  The side facing the creek of all the buildings are windowless and used for loading docks and dumpsters.  

Current view of Irondequoit Creek between Panorama Plaza and Panorama Creek Drive

With a few changes, this area could be a great asset.  Rebuilding the dilapidated structures to the north to face the park and street would be valuable spaces for restaurants, boutiques, and a hotel.   A tree-lined promenade would link businesses to the creek and parking.  Existing trails along the creek should be preserved and connected to a community garden in the western portion and a lawn with a stage in the eastern portion.  Inviting gateways along Panorama Trail and an improved connection to the trails that follow the creek toward Linear/Channing Park.

Example of an entrance to Panorama Valley Park from Panorama Trail.

Irondequoit Creek

To see more about the Panorama Valley redevelopment, please visit:
Panorama Valley: Part I

Panorama Valley

The Panorama Valley redevelopment is designed to restore a worn out strip mall into a vibrant mixed-use neighborhood.  This regional destination will have housing, offices, shops, entertainment, parks, and civic centers within easy walking distance.  A traditional Upstate community with contemporary amenities.

The town center (Panorama Trail and Penfield Road) will be a gathering spot for friends and families to enjoy a meal, relax, and participate in retail activities.  From there, you can go in any direction to visit one of the many fine cafes, restaurants, or boutiques.  Perhaps catch a movie at the theater or find a gift before you leave the hotel. 

Current satellite view of Panorama Plaza and surrounding development

Structure redevelopment for Panorama Valley with green space preserves surrounding the area
to protect Irondequoit and Allens Creeks watershed leading into the Irondequoit Bay.

Panorama Valley will be an inviting place by using quality design, renewable materials, and environmentally sensitive to the nearby creek watersheds.  Pedestrian and bike use will be encouraged to improve the quality of life for residents and business owners.  

Current situation of Panorama Trail

Redevelopment of Panorama Trail

Green space and historic preservation are vital to this area.  Irondequoit Creek and Allens Creek are home to rainbow trout and spawning salmon along with various kinds of amphibians and reptiles.  The old growth forests contain a variety of songbirds, owls, deer, and other woodland creatures.  Wildflowers and several protected classes of flora make this area unique.  This land is of historic significance to the Iroquois Native Americans and site of early industrial development of European settlers.

One of the many unique water features found nearby

Panorama Valley continues the Upstate New York tradition of village living and an entrepreneurial business climate.   Plenty of activities and parks for families to enjoy.  And ways to celebrate the natural and cultural heritage that defines the region.

To see more about the Panorama Valley redevelopment, please visit:
Panorama Valley: Part II