Transforming an Underused Public Lot into a Vibrant Community Plaza

The Dixon Downtown Plaza site had been a vacant gravel lot for many years and served as a downtown parking lot. The City of Dixon selected the Helix/BEN|EN team to transform the former Pardi Neighborhood Market site into a vibrant community plaza. The project site is highly visible in the community and with innovative design and concept development, the Helix/BEN|EN team was able to create a new community social hub and parking area at this key downtown core location.

The project was completed in two phases. The first phase featured permeable pavers to allow onsite stormwater to percolate into the ground, new lighting, landscaping, ADA-accessible facilities, and parking. The second phase included the construction of a raised concrete stage with a band shell over the stage, shade shelters, drinking fountains, site furnishings (such as tables, seating, and walls), and plantings. These facilities are capable of hosting community events and/or providing a functional space for everyday use.

BEN|EN assisted the City with the facilitation of public workshops, conceptual design and planning,  preliminary engineering design, and Plans, Specifications, and Estimates (PS&E).

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