Abstract:
Described are the challenges faced and solutions used in the design and construction of a multipurpose transit center serving both commuter rail and the end-of-line stop for the light rail transit (LRT) extension of the Valley Transit Authority (VTA) system to downtown Mountain View, California. The transit center will provide accommodation for bicycle, pedestrian, park-and-ride, drop-off, bus, and shuttle van access. The proximity of the project to Castro Street, the revitalized main street of Mountain View, required that care be taken in the selection of urban design elements. The project incorporates the latest Americans with Disabilities Act considerations by VTA for design as well as construction. A significant piece of public art work consisting of a sculpture by a local artist was integrated into a prominent area of the site. The design and construction was complicated by the presence of multiple concurrent improvement projects under way during both the design and construction time frame. Through careful and intensive interjurisdictional coordination, the project was completed in time for the grand opening of the new LRT line in December 1999.
Supplemental Notes:
This paper is available on the CD-ROM, Light Rail: Investment for the Future, 8th Joint Conference on Light Rail Transit.
