A few years ago, engineers from the Virginia-based AES Consulting Engineers (AES) were facing a challenge. They had to design a large scale mixed-use community on a site with significant topographical difficulties, while addressing concerns of the local “no growth” movement that was opposing the project. Today, the multi-year development is starting to take shape, thanks to innovative engineering solutions and low impact development techniques.
Located in the Greater Williamsburg, Va. area, the New Town project consists of 375 acres of residential, retails, office, and multiple public open spaces, including an archaeological preservation park. In fact, the site is primarily designed as a pedestrian friendly community that encourages shared parking with a series of interconnected sidewalks and trails. “This promotes pedestrian movement and convinces the driving public that it is acceptable to park in one place and walk to the desired restaurant, store, or home,” says Bob Cosby, AES project manager.
The mixed-use and traditional neighborhood design concepts employed by AES at New Town set this project apart from others in the area. New Town is the first project in the Greater Williamsburg Area to utilize the best elements of town planning exemplified by the nearby Restoration at Colonial Williamsburg.
Special attention and planning have been directed to providing ADA accessibility throughout the community and to reducing runoff pollution in the downstream waterways. Bob explains that the topographical issues have been solved such that all buildings are ADA accessible, while providing positive drainage away from the buildings. Bioretention cells, dry swales, and rain gardens provide stormwater runoff control throughout the site.
Upon completion of construction in 2015, New Town will combine traditional features of the colonial style with exciting contemporary urban living.
