Q: The concourse level is currently (-19'-0''). Can this be altered?

As this is an ideas competition, ANY proposed modifications to the existing conditions are permitted. We suggest that your modifications be reasonable and that they reinforce the conceptual clarity of your project.

Please note that we have included in the competition documents a rail configuration scheme. Use this scheme for the arrangement of rail infrastructure.

Q: If group entries are accepted, is the entry fee $5O for the whole group or for each student ?

The fee is for one entry -- it does not matter how many team members participate. Please note that you must submit proof of student enrollment for all team members in order to qualify for the student registration rate.

Q: Can people with qualifications other than architecture such as urban planning and design be part of the group?

Yes.

Q: Can we enter the competition as a group (four students )?

Yes.

Q: The elevations show a difference of about 10' between Clinton and Canal. Is this correct? This contradicts section A-A'.

You may notice a slight inconsistency between the new elevations and the one of the section drawings.

The elevations are correct.

Please note that the section should be revised per the above.

NEW DRAWINGS AVAILABLE: Elevations

Please take a look at the "Download Materials" section of the competition website. We've added elevation drawings of the existing Union Station.

Q: What are the zoning restrictions applicable, if any?

As this is an ideas competition, zoning restrictions do not apply. Your zoning decisions should reinforce the intent of your scheme.

Q: How far below street level can we locate program?

As this is an ideas competition, the only restriction is that you build to a reasonable depth, and that your decision reinforce the intent of your scheme.

Q: Should farmers deliver their goods with their vehicles directly to the market?

Yes. You may assume that farmers transport their goods to market in small vehicles.

Q: Is the total square footage for the Midwest Regional Market 95.000sf? Are the first 30.000sf the total trading area?

Yes, the total square footage for this program is 95,000sf. There is an error in the program document. Please note that in the program lists a total of 30,000sf dedicated to the actual sales posts. This should read "35,000sf". Note also that the brief calls for an additional 50,000sf dedicated to general circulation for shoppers, etc. One might thus consider that the actual "Trading Hall" might be a total of 85,000sf.

Q: Can a parking structure be located on an adjacent empty lot ?

No. Parking requirements should be satisfied within the given site.

Q: Can the program requirement for 1500 parking spaces be changed in any way?

No. The program requirement for 1500 cars is based on comparable facilities elsewhere, and should be accommodated.

Q: What are the upper levels of Union Station between Clinton and Canal currently being used for and is this available for use in the new program?

The upper levels of the current Union Station are currently used for offices. You may use or alter this space in whatever way you see fit.

We are working to locate drawings of this area and will upload them to the competition website as soon as we can.

Q: Is the competition open to non-licensed professionals (Intern Architects)?

Yes.

Q: Will the commuter and high speed trains use the same tracks & platforms?

No. Assume that 5 tracks are dedicated to High Speed Rail and 3 to Commuter Rail. Competitors may decide which tracks and platforms are to be used for which use. This scenario assumes that some of the current commuter rail capacity is moved to one of the other downtown stations.

Q: If I remove the existing office tower, will that space need to be accounted for elsewhere on the site?

If the tower is removed, the program remains as stated in the brief. There is no need to replace the square footage of the tower elsewhere on the site.

Q: What is the level underneath the concourse used for currently? Can this be altered?

The level below the concourse is currently unused. It may be altered.