Initially inspired by the pandemic, Street Level Stations is a concept by industrial design consultancy Pensa. The idea is that information about mass transit, and other transportation options, could be shared at above-ground kiosks, allowing people to spend less time underground.

STREET LEVEL STATIONS

A safer, cleaner, and more seamless commute

Covid-19 has made us rethink the ways design can help make our lives safer and more enjoyable, starting with our daily commute which often places crowds into small enclosed spaces.

Our concept for street level stations would provide the first-ever seamless experience across all modes of public transit and create a (dare we say it) more enjoyable commute.

"We felt that focusing on public space could have the most benefit to the most people, and no matter what, we kept coming back to the transit system." — Mark Prommel, Pensa Partner

With plans in place to close up to 100 miles of city streets to traffic, opening up more pedestrian space, we should be considering the most impactful ways to use this space to benefit the public.

Street-level stations will connect pedestrians to subways, buses, taxis/car sharing and bike sharing into one open-air waiting area. This will provide the first-ever seamless experience across all modes of urban transportation. Information on incoming trains and buses, including their capacity, is available at a glance. If you're heading underground, go when you know there is a train approaching with capacity. Additionally, there is no need to wait in an enclosed space until the last minute.

Street Level Platforms

Busier stops and hubs require more space for open air waiting. Street-level Platforms will elevate the experience and offer WIFI connected outdoor lounges to work and wait, complete with inviting easy-to-clean furniture.

Street Level Plazas

The ultimate realization of the new open-air transit system is the Street-level Plaza. These inspiring spaces will include even more lounge seating and have multiple areas to access transportation, becoming welcomed outdoor spots to shop, eat or pickup from local restaurants — while you wait.

Check out more of Pensa's work here.