Create a Plaza Along Payne to Serve as a Central Outdoor Gathering Space

Neighborhood Vision 2025

Upgrade Payne Ave to Anchor AsiaTown

Today, most people celebrate AsiaTown as a hub for Asians and AAPIs across the region, but there isn’t one clear, central heart of the neighborhood. Payne Avenue has the potential to be a natural neighborhood anchor, and development along Payne is critical to support the businesses already located there. As AsiaTown grows and develops, the uniqueness of local Asian cultures should be integrated into improved streetscape design and community gathering spaces along Payne, and community programming should center around this important street.

Upgrade Payne Ave to Anchor AsiaTown

Action

Create a Plaza Along Payne to Serve as a Central Outdoor Gathering Space

A unique, outdoor amenity will draw residents, workers, and visitors to AsiaTown. A prominent new plaza would improve the pedestrian experience along Payne, create a place for rest and relaxation, and a venue to host joint programming with AsiaTown partners.

Near-Term Actions

Pursue development along Payne that includes a central outdoor gathering space.

Type of Action

Planning & Design

Looking For

Developers & Designers

8D

Related Actions

Upgrade Payne Ave to Anchor AsiaTown

Tame Payne Avenue

Residents identified lack of quality public space, frequent speeding along the corridor and dangerous crossings as issues with Payne Avenue today. This cirtical commercial corridor can be redesigned to create a safer, people-oriented environment that supports local businesses and facilitates the types of outdoor events and activity desired by area residents.

Upgrade Payne Ave to Anchor AsiaTown

Cultivate Vibrant Programming for AsiaTown Centered on Payne Avenue

Foster culture of collaboration and connection between MidTown and AsiaTown as organizations and places to achieve shared goals identified in the MidTown Neighborhood Vision and Imagine AsiaTown plans.

Upgrade Payne Ave to Anchor AsiaTown

Infill Payne Avenue with the Right Mix of Businesses and Amenities

Infilling commercial spaces fronting Payne Avenue will help create a sense of place along this improtant street by creating more foot traffic and activity throughout the week. Residents indicated the desire for community-serving amenities and the need to improve access to affordable groceries in the area.