The Santa Fe Railyard has been in use since 1880 as a terminus for both passenger and freight trains. In 1995, the city of Santa Fe bought the 50-acre railyard in conjunction with the Trust for Public Land, and began creating a plan to develop a vibrant, multi-use urban area. A multi-year process resulted in a master plan for the railyard that was completed in 2002.
The plan will create a cultural, commercial and residential center for citizens of Santa Fe to enjoy. Among the attractions provided will be a 13-acre park, farmer.s market, a pedestrian plaza, a museum of local culture, various housing units including artists. lofts, and commercial spaces for local businesses and craftsmen. The development will retain the historic character of the railyard, using materials and designs that connect with the site.s past.
A heavy focus will be placed on alternative transportation options; the entire site was designed to be a pedestrian area. There will be a network of pathways, some of them along historic canals, which will connect with corridors for pedestrians and bikes only. These avenues will have easy access to external trails and neighboring streets. Surrounding streets will be modified to calm traffic. There will also be easy transit connections, with increased bus services; in the future, it is hoped that the railyard will serve as the local station for a commuter rail line, as well as for a light rail network serving Santa Fe.
Groundbreaking took place in September 2004, and the project is expected to be completed in 2008.
Goal
Develop a Multi-Use Urban Center