type
Programming and Public participation
Context
The area surrounding the Gare du Midi is undergoing profound transformations. Between the station and the city center, the Brussels inner ring road is being reconfigured to accommodate Metro 3 infrastructure, a process that will necessitate new surface-level landscaping once the metro construction is complete.
The neighborhood is already complex in its current state, characterized by major traffic arteries and intense real estate activity (comprising both offices and high-density housing). While there is a vast amount of public space, it is poorly designed and fails to serve the needs of its diverse users, ranging from the throngs of travelers passing through one of Belgium’s largest stations to some of the capital’s most vulnerable residents.
Mission
The project aims to design a new public realm layout for the boulevards affected by the construction of the new Toots Thielemans station. Bruxelles Mobilité is seizing this opportunity to create a surface-level design that prioritizes leisure areas, greenery, active travel modes, and landscape quality, while paying special attention to consultation with all relevant stakeholders. While the boulevards must retain their function as thoroughfares, the new design can improve safety for various modes of transport and accommodate new uses that address contemporary challenges. CityTools is contributing to the design plans and working on the programming of spaces and the facilitation of dialogue with local stakeholders.
Approach
Boulevard du Midi is being reimagined as a livable space that fosters connectivity. It helps to better leverage the neighborhood's vast amount of open space. Its design incorporates multiple layers of vegetation, supporting water management and climate change adaptation strategies while echoing its history as a tree-lined thoroughfare. Varying planting densities and types create opportunities for new urban uses.
The sidewalks are wide and generous, designed to accommodate diverse activities rather than perpetuating a space dominated by cars. The traffic layout aims to reduce the number of dangerous intersections without negatively affecting the significant local traffic flow. Various engagement activities, including site visits, an interactive exhibition, and public meetings, have been organized to accompany the project’s different stages.