KGPdesign studio

This segment of Metropolitan Branch Trail just north of Union Station is located in the heart of the NOMA district, between the Metro and Amtrak train tracks, yard, and a new development site to the west. This transitional part of the city, from industrial to a dense mixed-use urban community needs this green space to give some relief and a buffer between the development and the continued industrial train yard use. Elevation in the L/M Street segment offers the opportunity to interject a green space and train-watching chance for residents, workers, and trail users in the otherwise dense urban fabric. A 20' elevation change integrated into the topography and gentle rise of the trail, recalling the early industrial era context, weathered steel retaining walls will sculpt the bio-retention landscape, allowing landscaped terraces of grasses and shade trees. Benches will be tucked and integrated with the weirs along the trail. At the south end of the trail path, the folding topography will culminate in a series of landscaped steps for users to people-watch and rest, overlooking a small plaza adjacent to L Street.