Strawberry Mansion Commercial Corridor Redevelopment
This project proposes a phased redevelopment of the commercial corridor along Ridge Avenue between 29th and 30th Streets in the Strawberry Mansion neighborhood. Although zoned for commercial mixed-use and home to various small businesses such as restaurants, salons, and grocery stores, this section currently suffers from vacant lots, closed shops, and low pedestrian and vehicle activity.
To address this, the proposal is structured in three flexible phases. Phase 1 focuses on attracting foot traffic through infrastructure improvements, including sidewalk planters and integrating peers’ interventions such as landscape and transit enhancements. Phase 2 aims to generate revenue by transforming a vacant lot into a community pocket park inspired by “The Porch” near 30th Street Station, featuring amenities for all ages such as food vendors, seating, and outdoor movies. Nearby buildings would be partially rehabilitated to host shared kitchens or small cafés.
With increased activity and income from Phase 2, Phase 3 expands commercial functions by converting the entire ground floors of adjacent buildings into retail spaces connected to the park, while preserving residential use on the upper levels. The phased approach is designed to progressively activate the area, support local businesses, and strengthen the neighborhood economy.
