Tri-Cities Research District Visioning Plan

Richland, Washington

The master plan vision for the 292-acre Tri-Cities Research District articulates a world-class, sustainable and cohesive community where companies and institutions innovate, promote and collaborate on the advancement of science and technology. The design team utilized progressive planning and land use strategies to explore the vision and bring together diverse stakeholders made up of national energy laboratories, a port authority, the Washington State University branch campus and private developers.

Mayer/Reed’s primary tasks included overseeing the open space and transportation components, maximizing connectivity to the Columbia River, regional trail systems, work places and recreational amenities. Street classifications and streetscape standards distinguish a hierarchy of transportation options. A links-style golf course provides a green framework of public open spaces and enhanced wildlife habitat. Plazas and courtyards are located as focal points and pedestrian destinations. The firm’s work on the landscape architectural standards set forth an aesthetic that creates a sense of place that addresses the uniqueness of the region and establishes sustainability goals. The design team also updated the master plan for the adjacent Washington State University Tri-Cities campus.

Owner: Solaris LLC, Battelle/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, Washington State University & Port of Benton

The master plan vision for the 292-acre Tri-Cities Research District articulates a world-class, sustainable and cohesive community where companies and institutions innovate, promote and collaborate on the advancement of science and technology. The design team utilized progressive planning and land use strategies to explore the vision and bring together diverse stakeholders made up of national energy laboratories, a port authority, the Washington State University branch campus and private developers.

Mayer/Reed’s primary tasks included overseeing the open space and transportation components, maximizing connectivity to the Columbia River, regional trail systems, work places and recreational amenities. Street classifications and streetscape standards distinguish a hierarchy of transportation options. A links-style golf course provides a green framework of public open spaces and enhanced wildlife habitat. Plazas and courtyards are located as focal points and pedestrian destinations. The firm’s work on the landscape architectural standards set forth an aesthetic that creates a sense of place that addresses the uniqueness of the region and establishes sustainability goals. The design team also updated the master plan for the adjacent Washington State University Tri-Cities campus.

Owner

Tri-Cities Research District Visioning Plan Richland, Washington

Services

Landscape Architecture
Master Planning
Urban Design

Sustainable Features

Brownfield recovery site
Native plants & wildlife habitat
Stormwater treatment & bioswales
Transit connections/alternative transportation

Awards