Division Corridor Strategy Final Report Division-Corridor-Strategy-Final-Report | Page 38

(Please note the following informaƟ on is not a
detailed structural assessment and only includes
documentaƟ on of aestheƟ c condiƟ ons.)
The study area contains a variety of building
structures ranging from single family homes to
commercial structures with most being industrial or
commercial buildings. Construc on dates include
many decades spanning from the 1910s to present
day with no real con nuity in styles or character.
However, as previously noted, several structures are
iden fi ed as high priority historical resources (see
Map 2.4). Although no real con nuity exists among
building styles, new infi ll development near Center
Street and Mesquite Street has used forms and
materials from the Vandergriff Building and future
development should consider similar appearances.
Many of the past structures have been removed and
the Corridor has limited common design themes.
However, there are several eclec c or nostalgic signs
and buildings, from the 1940s or 1950s, that may
off er future branding poten al. In either case, the
recent development eff orts near Center Street and
Mesquite Street should be a major considera on for
future development styles.
Building materials diff er throughout the study area,
with facade materials including siding, brick, stone,
concrete block, metal siding, and glass store fronts.
Most structures are one story but several two and
three story structures exist and would be compa ble
with future mul story buildings. Based on current
appearances and construc on dates, it is assumed
that general building condi ons would require
signifi cant remodeling investment to bring structures
up to current codes. Also, accessibility issues exist
when considering reuse for exis ng commercial
buildings.
Design condi ons within the study area are best
described as industrial-looking with limited similari-
es in forms and materials. Future infi ll or new
construc on should consider design elements that
visually link structures to create a sense of place,
both within the Corridor and to Downtown. Divi-
sion Street and most adjacent local streets have no
place-making elements such as trees, landscaping,
interes ng materials, art, or other design features.
As documented in previous studies, Division Street
itself has nega ve visual qu ali es due to clu ered
u lity poles, overhead u lity lines, lack of green
space, street and curb condi ons, and amount of
pavement associated with parking lots. While the
Corridor is limited in quality design elements, recent
improvements at Center Street have included wide
sidewalks, use of ground textures and materials,
trees, district markers, poles and banners, and
landscaping. Future design improvements should
mimic Center Street’s streetscape.
Buildings and Design Condi ons
The area’s landscape is dominated by overhead lines
and vertical elements including street lights and util-
ity poles.
Example of current reuse of older structures within
study area.
Division Street Corridor Strategy
City of Arlington
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