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Benches, bike lanes, and bus stops — help shape the future of the Diamond District

Give your feedback on the public elements of the Diamond District development, which will help shape the look and feel of the new neighborhood

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The city hosted an in-person feedback session in May.

Photo by RICtoday

Want to help determine the look of the Diamond District? You can — the city is looking for feedback on its public realm design guidelines.

Now through Monday, May 27, check out the online presentation and leave your comments.

What is the public realm?

The public realm covers spaces that fall within the right of way and any publicly owned open spaces. Think street signs, benches, streetlights, and parks.

At the Office of Sustainability’s in-person feedback meeting on May 9, participants were shown a series of images and renderings of elements that could be included in the future neighborhood.

The general design includes a linear park running down the neighborhood as well as a central “Festival Street” between Arthur Ashe and Hermitage. According to city leaders, the street will be able to be easily closed to traffic in order to host outdoor community events.

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The future neighborhood will include a linear park and street optimized for community events.

Images via city documents

How do I participate?

The presentation offers examples of what the Diamond District could include, although nothing is set in stone.

Check out the images and add your thoughts directly on the page — it could be as simple as a thumbs up for the bike rack design you like, or a question about new bike lanes on Arthur Ashe Boulevard.

Pro tip: You can see what other people have said and engage with them by replying or liking their comment.

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The first phase of the development will take shape over the next 8-10 years.

Image via city documents

What’s next for the Diamond District?

City Council unanimously approved a new funding structure for the development in early May and expects a June groundbreaking. Sitework should begin in July.

If you’re walking by the Diamond District, you should be able to see the new stadium rising in the fall. The Squirrels will have their new home for the 2026 season.

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