KS Engineers, P.C. (KSE) provided final design, permitting coordination, and construction administration services for a comprehensive streetscape improvement project along Market Street between 34th Street and 41st Street in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Building upon a conceptual design report previously prepared by KSE for the University City District, the firm developed complete construction documents, technical specifications, and supporting engineering plans necessary for implementation of the project. Because the corridor is part of the Pennsylvania State Highway System and falls under the jurisdiction of the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT), KSE prepared all documentation in accordance with PennDOT standards and requirements. The firm coordinated agency reviews, addressed regulatory comments, secured required approvals and permits, and facilitated project advancement through the bidding phase. During construction, KSE provided construction administration services to support interpretation of design intent, review contractor submittals, respond to field inquiries, and assist with implementation of the streetscape improvements.
The project transformed a prominent segment of Market Street within Philadelphia’s University City area, creating an attractive and functional gateway corridor leading into Center City Philadelphia. The section extending from 34th Street to 39th Street is recognized as the Science Center district and incorporated innovative, technology-oriented streetscape features funded by The Science Center. The section between 39th Street and 41st Street was designed as a more traditional streetscape while maintaining architectural and aesthetic continuity with the adjacent high-technology character of the Science Center improvements. Together, these enhancements established a cohesive identity along Market Street while improving the pedestrian environment, multimodal accessibility, and overall streetscape experience.
KSE’s final design incorporated a variety of sustainable, pedestrian-oriented, and traffic-calming elements intended to improve safety, functionality, and visual quality throughout the corridor. Proposed improvements included pedestrian-scale lighting systems, solar- and wind-powered gateway features, decorative sidewalks and crosswalks, bicycle lanes adjacent to curbs and parking lanes, and curb extensions at intersections designed to calm traffic and shorten pedestrian crossing distances. The project also integrated environmentally sensitive stormwater management facilities known as water gardens, which provided opportunities for runoff treatment, infiltration, and enhanced urban sustainability while contributing to the visual character of the streetscape.
As part of the landscape architecture component, KSE prepared a comprehensive planting plan tailored to the unique conditions present along the corridor. Street tree species were selected based on available growing space, shade conditions, urban environmental factors, and potential impacts from adjacent truck traffic. Large curbside planting areas were designed with low-maintenance ornamental grasses, shrubs, and perennial plantings capable of thriving under varying sun and shade conditions, thereby ensuring long-term sustainability, visual appeal, and ease of maintenance.
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