We proposed and developed a redesign for Kelley Square in Worcester MA that integrated research-backed solutions to improve pedestrian safety and encourage positive neighborhood activity.
Leading up to 2018, Kelley Square was statistically the deadliest intersection in Massachusetts. The need for pedestrian safety improvements prompted the Massachusetts Department of Transportation to announce a redesign of the intersection in 2018.
Our redesign incorporated key features such as rotaries, bollards, raised and reflective crosswalks, and greenspace. To ensure the design reflected community needs, we attended town hall meetings in the Canal District to gather input from local residents, addressing their concerns and priorities. We applied research-backed evidence and statistical data to validate our design choices.Â
Our project significantly influenced the Kelley Square redesign, with MassDOT adopting key proposed safety and aesthetic features. These included bollards, raised crosswalks, and reflective paint, all validated by our evidence-based studies. The effectiveness of our research and design process earned us the "Judge's Winner" award at WPI. Since the redesign's construction, Kelley Square has seen a measurable reduction in pedestrian accidents, highlighting the success of our proposed solutions in improving pedestrian safety.