As part of their Senior Design Capstone course, Civil & Environmental Engineering students will create designs for streetscape improvements in downtown Granger, Iowa.

The City of Granger seeks to revitalize its downtown with streetscape improvements along Main Street and Broadway Street. As the community continues to grow, the City aims to create a downtown that is safe, accessible, attractive, and supportive of local businesses while improving the overall experience for residents and visitors.

Students will evaluate existing roadway, sidewalk, and streetscape conditions to develop a comprehensive design that enhances walkability, ADA accessibility, pedestrian safety, and traffic circulation while balancing the parking needs of downtown businesses. The project will also identify opportunities to integrate stormwater management and flood mitigation strategies into the streetscape, improving the corridor's long-term resilience while enhancing its visual appeal.

In addition, students will assess the existing downtown lighting system and develop recommendations for a cohesive streetlight design that improves nighttime visibility, pedestrian safety, and the overall character of the downtown. Concepts may include energy-efficient lighting technologies, smart lighting solutions, and streetscape amenities that create a more welcoming and vibrant public environment.

The design team will:

• Evaluate existing roadway, sidewalk, lighting, and streetscape conditions.
• Develop conceptual streetscape designs that improve accessibility, safety, and pedestrian connectivity.
• Balance vehicle circulation, on-street parking, and pedestrian needs within the downtown corridor.
• Develop conceptual lighting improvements that enhance safety, energy efficiency, and downtown identity.
• Prepare engineering recommendations that support long-term economic vitality and community development.

Project deliverables may include:

• Existing conditions assessment.
• Conceptual roadway and sidewalk redesign.
• ADA accessibility improvements.
• Streetscape enhancement concepts, including landscaping, street furnishings, streetlight design, and pedestrian amenities.
• Preliminary engineering recommendations for traffic circulation and parking.
• Planning-level cost considerations and implementation priorities.
• Final report with conceptual plans, renderings, and recommendations.