Bull’s Head Brownfield Opportunity Area

Project Story

Through the New York State Department of State’s (NYS DOS) Brownfield Opportunity Area (BOA) Program, Fisher has been working with the City of Rochester to prepare and execute a Revitalization Plan for the Bull’s Head neighborhood. The BOA study covers approximately 188 acres and is characterized by a disproportionately high percentage of vacant buildings and lots, environmental concerns for over 150 sites, low property values, and overall disinvestment. Fisher analyzed brownfield sites, prioritized parcels, forwarded land use strategies, developed transportation recommendations, made zoning recommendations, developed design concepts, conceptualized neighborhood revitalization programming, performed outreach, identified strategic sites, and insured environmental review (SEQRA) compliance.

Project highlights include:

• Public Engagement: Through thorough on-the-ground outreach, the community was actively engaged in the planning process. Both the Project Advisory Committee and members of the public provided valuable insight to guide the future of their neighborhood that shaped the Revitalization Plan.
• Inventory and Analysis: Working with several City departments, Monroe County, and regional agencies, an in-depth and thorough analysis of existing conditions, opportunities, and property reuse potential was developed. This included a detailed brownfield site inventory and identification and prioritization of strategic sites and areas.
• Concept Plan Development: A key outcome of the study was concept development plans for the core of the neighborhood. Conceptual design was prepared for multi-modal infrastructure, dedicated and protected bike lanes, enhanced crosswalks, reconfigured intersections, the introduction of a new roundabout, public plazas, and new mixed-use development.
• Urban Renewal Plan: An Urban Renewal Plan for the core of the BOA study area was prepared and adopted by the City Council.  The Urban Renewal Plan would effectuate land assembly, select demolition, and environmental due diligence activities.  The second phase of the plan will include zoning amendments and the adoption of an Urban Renewal District.   
• Estimate of Probable Costs: Fisher provided detailed estimates of probable costs for proposed infrastructure improvements to assist the City with funding dedication and grant requests.
• Traffic Impact Study: To support the recommended infrastructure improvements and to increase pedestrian, bicycle, and vehicular safety in the study area, Fisher completed a Traffic Impact Study.  The Study included turning movement counts, an accident analysis, trip generation analysis, and recommendations.
• Grant Application Assistance: To assist the City with implementation activities and continue the momentum of planning for the neighborhood, Fisher is providing grant application assistance through New York’s Consolidated Funding Application (CFA) process.