University Ave. Streetscape

The University Avenue Streetscape project represented a multiyear, multicity effort to transform an important regional thoroughfare into a complete street. Current planning efforts could eventually extend the complete street from 73^rd Street in Windsor Heights to East 14^th Street in Des Moines. Complete streets benefit a neighborhood because they improve walkability, enhance pedestrian and bike safety, and encourage the use of public transportation. They also confer a number of economic benefits, bolstering local businesses and significantly revitalizing areas.

This initiative transformed the stretch of University Avenue between 25^th and 31^st Streets in the Drake neighborhood. From five lanes of travel to three, with dedicated parking on the south curb, east and west bound bike lanes, and new, art enhanced DART bus stops, University Avenue transformed into an urban transit corridor serving neighbors, commuters, and students alike. 

At its core, the University Avenue Streetscape project is about placemaking. It has strengthened the identity of the Drake neighborhood and helped build community among its residents and the Drake campus. To this end, Drake University has encouraged new development along University Avenue and made a commitment to lead efforts to beautify the street to promote walkability, public transit, and greater engagement with local businesses.