Passenger Rail

“The environmental crisis can be seen not only as a crisis of the physical and technological environments; it is also a crisis of the cultural environment — of the modes of representation through which society relates to the complexity of environmental systems.”(p.11)

— Design Earth, GeoStories  

PROPOSAL

THE SEAM

WEIGHT

While weight is traditionally understood in terms of physical mass, this proposal also explores the concept of intangible weight, the weight of presence. It considers how the presence of people, activities, and environmental context contributes to the perception of space. By addressing the current condition of passenger stations, the project reinterprets “weight” as both a material and experiential phenomenon, seeking to transform these spaces from isolated instructress into vibrant, integrated expansions of their surroundings 

EFC DESIGNATION

This proposal systematically identifies areas within Los Angeles where the presence of transportation infrastructure is more critically lacking. By layering spatial data sets including demographic, land use pattern, existing transit lines, and pedestrian connectivity the mapping process reveals zones of high need and latent potential. These insights not only guide the setting of future interventions but also reinforce a data driven approach to urban design, ensuring that proposed development responds directly to measurable gaps in accessibility. In doing so, the project positions transportation infrastructure as a catalyst for equitable urban growth. Targeting areas where improved connectivity can generate the greatest social, economic, and environmental benefits  

VACANT LOTS

The urban area of Los Angeles is punctuated by numerous vacant lots, many of which are positioned adjacent to train stations. Rather than allowing these spaces to remain dormant, this proposal advocates for their strategic incorporation as an extension of the transit environment. By integrating programmatic elements these zones can serve as transitional threshold between the station and city. This approach not only amplifies the spatial and experiential presence of the station but also fosters a more porous dynamic relationship between the infrastructure and community life. In doing so, the proposal reimagines train stations not as isolated nodes, but as catalysts for urban revitalization and social engagement.  

IMPLEMENTATION

THE FUTURE

YEAR 5: COMMUNITY IMPLEMENTATION 

In the early phases of the project, community driven programming can be introduced, ranging from local markets to curated bicycle infrastructure initiatives. These implementations would foster early engagement, promote sustainable mobility, and help embed the project within the daily rhythms of the surrounding community. 

YEAR 25: PROGRAM IMPLEMENTATION 

The next phase of the project focuses on the strategic implementation of commercial programs to expand the spatial grandeur of the site and reinforce its role as a vibrant urban anchor. By integrating curated programs like cafes, and flexible community-oriented vendors, the intervention aims to generate continuous activity, attract diverse users and blur the boundaries between transit and public life. These commercial activations not only enhance the functional capacity of the station environment but also elevate its experiential quality, positioning it as both a mobility hub and civic destination