Jefferson Resquared

JEFFERSON SQUARE A VISION FOR LOUISVILLE’S PREMIER CIVIC SPACE TECHNICAL REPORT | FEBRUARY 2019

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JEFFERSON RESQUARED

Contents LOUISVILLE METRO

Executive Summary

Gretchen Miliken, AIA, Director Office of Advanced Planning

Page 4

ES

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

Michael King, Urban Planner, Project Manager Office of Advanced Planning Tommy Clark, Economic Development Officer Louisville Forward

Introduction Page 6

Sarah Lindgren, Public Art Administrator Office of Advanced Planning

Existing Conditions

LOUISVILLE DOWNTOWN PARTNERSHIP

Page 12

Rebecca Matheny, Executive Director Patrick Piuma, Planning Director

The Master Plan

CONSULTANT TEAM:

Page 16

MKSK De Leon & Primmer Architecture Workshop Kolar Design Citizen Engineering Corn Island Archaeology Robert Pass & Associates

Plan Of Action Page 38

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01 02 03 04

Executive summary THE SITE

THE VISION

Jefferson Square was created in the late 1970’s as a public open space strategically located adjacent to several civic and government buildings in downtown Louisville. The site is currently surrounded on threes sides by city streets (Jefferson Street, 6th Street, and Liberty Street) and shares the city block with 300 West Jefferson, a 31-story office tower. At .86 acres, Jefferson Square hosts a diverse range of traditional park amenities including picnic tables, benches, lighting, a water feature (no longer functioning), trees, landscaping, sidewalks, and a small stage.

Downtown Louisville has seen significant growth in residents, tourism, and employment over the last several years. The growth appeals to those desiring to live, work, and play in a thriving urban community. Great public spaces are essential for the health and prosperity of cities. Jefferson Square is centrally located as a significant cultural space in the community and is in need of a transformation. There is great potential for the space to become an active public space that integrates seamlessly with its surroundings and reinforces its significance to the community.

On the surface the operative terms framing this project are “Civic” and “Square”, however early in the process we asked the question, “What is the function of a civic space within today’s urban context?” Using feedback gathered from the community through public engagement activities, this document re-imagines Jefferson Square as Downtown Louisville’s premier urban space. Our vision for Jefferson Square embraces high-quality civic engagement desired by the community, while functioning as a flexible urban gathering space. The new Jefferson Square will do so by operating as not only an urban park, but as a stage, memorial, gallery, and as a sustainable environment within Louisville growing urban heat island.

The site also contains several uniquely significant features including memorial monuments devoted to fallen police officers and firefighters, sister cities signage and flags. The site is currently the focal point of “Light Up Louisville”, an annual celebration on the Friday after Thanksgiving that kicks off the holiday season with a dedication of the city’s Christmas tree and an illumination of downtown.

Patrons of Jefferson Square predominantly consist of a few people seated at picnic tables or along elevated planting beds, pedestrians using the cross-crossing pathways through the square to other destinations. The space is often the site of public rallies and gatherings due in part to its geographic location and visibility. Food vendors often setup on the periphery of the square during the lunch hour.

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VIEW LOOKING SOUTHEAST

VIEW LOOKING SOUTHWEST

VIEW LOOKING NORTH

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Introduction 6

DESIGN NARRATIVE JEFFERSON RESQUARED – RE-PRESENT THE PRIMARY CIVIC SPACE IN DOWNTOWN LOUISVILLE AS A BEAUTIFULLY GREEN AND PERFORMATIVE LANDSCAPE THAT SERVES THE DIVERSE SOCIAL, CULTURAL, AND HISTORICAL INFLUENCES OF THE CITY. THESE LOCAL TO GLOBAL THEMES ARE EXPRESSED IN A VARIETY OF METHODS IN THE SPACE THROUGHOUT THE SEASONS.

INTERNATIONAL UNITY: Sister Cities recognition | Cultural celebrations Emerging/Present: Mexican, Vietnamese, Indian Historic: German, Scots-Irish

INTERNATIONAL

UNITY

O

GL CONNECTION

JEFFERSON SQUARE L

CIVIC PRIDE Police/Fire memorials | Public services around the Square | Freedom of speech | Protests and rallies

LOCAL

HERITAGE

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CIVIC

PRIDE

LO

LOCAL HERITAGE: Present and past architecture | “On this place” in Louisville history | Former landowners of the Square | Sculptures surrounding the site

CA

RIVER

L BA

RIVER CONNECTION Settlement and immigration | Industrial port Flood and proximity to Square | Metaphor for connectivity

SITE HISTORY BUILT IN THE 1970’S, JEFFERSON SQUARE IS A RELATIVELY RECENT ADDITION TO DOWNTOWN, ONCE OCCUPIED BY VARIOUS Gruen & Associates Plan

BUILDINGS AND STRUCTURES.

GREEN SPACES The history of this block is one of both loss and renewal. Originally, the narrow blocks between W. Jefferson and Green streets had been planned as a row of parks, which explains the variation in block size.

PREVIOUS STRUCTURES The Center Building, shown in the image on the right, once stood at the northeast corner of Jefferson Street and Center Avenue (now Armory Place). Its demolition in the 1970’s gave way to Jefferson Square. Other historic structures through the years include the Reidhar Building, which was owned by a German banking family.

Center Building

OTHER PLANS In the 1960’s, the urban design firm of Gruen and Associates conceived a master plan for this block that would vacate the 6th Street right-of-way and create a civic space similar to the current Jefferson Square.

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NORTH 9

Sanborn Insurance Map, 1892

PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT overview THE PLANNING TEAM ENGAGED THE COMMUNITY FOR FEEDBACK AT VARIOUS STAGES IN THE DESIGN PROCESS. BOTH STAKEHOLDERS AND MEMBERS OF THE COMMUNITY WERE INVITED TO PROVIDE THEIR COMMENTS AND IDEAS, WHICH WERE USED TO SHAPE THE DESIGN FOR JEFFERSON SQUARE, AND REFINE ALTERNATIVES. STAKEHOLDERS The planning team met with representatives from Louisville Metro Staff, Fire Department and Police Department. Through these conversations, the planning team gained an understanding of how the current memorials were perceived, what improvements could be done to enhance their visibility, and how this space could be better utilized for both large and intimate events honoring public servants.

PUBLIC OPEN HOUSE An open house was held in Louisville Metro Hall on February 26 of 2018, in which members of the Louisville community were invited to share their feedback on three draft design concepts for the park. The three designs gave the community a range of options, and provided an opportunity for their ideas to be incorporated into the final design.

The meeting, attended by around 30 people, resulted in a preferred design concept with a larger gathering area and enhanced memorial wall/garden.

LIGHT UP LOUISVILLE Now in its 37th year, Light Up Louisville brings thousands of visitors to downtown from across the region. The 2017 event was held on November 24, and saw the return of the festivities to Jefferson Square. The planning team set up a table in the Vendors’ Village during the event, and talked to members of the community about the potential future of the park. Participants were asked to fill out a comment card detailing their vision for the square. There were various suggestions for the future design, such as gathering areas, additional trees, a water feature, and space for lunchtime and large crowds. These vision statements were used to guide the design through its initial stages, incorporating many of the community’s suggestions.

PUBLIC SAFETY MEMORIAL FAMILY MEETING The design team met with representatives from Louisville Metro Staff, Public Safety Officials, and families of fallen public safety officials during the initial conceptualization phase of the project.

The memorials play a significant role within the existing Jefferson Square, and are intended to be incorporated and positioned prominently within the redesign of the space. This nearly two-hour meeting resulted in great conversation about repositioning of the memorials themselves and the design of the spaces in which they will reside.

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LIGHT UP LOUISVILLE (NOVEMBER 24, 2017)

PUBLIC OPEN HOUSE (METRO HALL, FEBRUARY 26, 2018)

MAYOR’S CONCERT SERIES (OCTOBER 4, 2018)

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WHAT WE HEARD THE COMMUNITY WANTS A MORE INCLUSIVE, BETTER PROGRAMMED, AND MORE WELCOMING JEFFERSON SQUARE TO SERVE ALL LOUISVILLIANS. Through community events and an Open House, we asked members of the Louisville community to share their vision for Jefferson Square and to let us know if the potential redesign concept met their expectations.

Shown in these pages are the results from these activities, in which the community overwhelmingly supported a transformation of the square, and suggested that it becomes a central gathering space for the city through inclusive programming.

WILL A REDESIGN MOTIVATE YOU TO VISIT JEFFERSON SQUARE MORE OFTEN?

HOW OFTEN DO YOU VISIT JEFFERSON SQUARE? (11 responses)

(11 responses)

Daily Yes!

Once a Week Once a Month Only for Special Events

Maybe, depending on events/ programming

Never

No

WHAT EVENTS/ACTIVITIES WOULD YOU LIKE TO SEE HAPPEN IN JEFFERSON SQUARE? (9 responses)

ARE THERE OTHER OPPORTUNITIES WE SHOULD CONSIDER AND INCLUDE?

Christmas Market & Tree | Food trucks | Concerts | Movie Night | Skating Rink |

Street trees on Jefferson Street, 6th Street, and Liberty Street, raised intersections

Farmer’s Market | Art Displays |

More green space

Preserved Memorials

Parking under the plaza

(4 responses)

Movable chairs and tables

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MY WISH FOR JEFFERSON SQUARE IS... (30 responses)

Members of the community were asked to share their wish for a future Jefferson Square. With over 30 submissions, the answers focused on adding interactive features to the park. The most popular suggestion was a water feature, followed by a playground, trees, and a climbing wall. The word cloud below illustrates the responses collected by this exercise.

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EXISTING CONDITIONS 14

Introduction MANY DOWNTOWN RESIDENTS, VISITORS AND WORKERS DON’T REALIZE THE SIGNIFICANCE OF JEFFERSON SQUARE AS THE OUTDOOR CIVIC SPACE IN DOWNTOWN LOUISVILLE. THIS IS PARTLY DUE TO THE SQUARE’S CURRENT DISTRIBUTION OF SPACES, AND ITS ENGAGEMENT WITH ITS EDGES — THE SQUARE FEELS ISOLATED, YET NOT A REFUGE FROM THE URBAN ENVIRONMENT.

METRO HALL

CITY HALL

Jefferson Square, a 1-acre urban park situated near City Hall surrounded by private and governmental offices, is located at the intersection of Jefferson Street and 6th Street.

Lost in overgrown plant materials, wandering circulation paths, and a collection of first responder memorials, Jefferson Square has the potential to serve as downtown’s premier civic space.

400 W. JEFFERSON

6TH STREET

HALL OF JUSTICE

JEFFERSON STREET

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METROSAFE

JEFFERSON COUNTY ATTORNEY & LAW LIBRARY

ARMORY PLACE

CORRECTIONS

LIBERTY STREET

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LOCATION & CONTEXT LOCATED IN THE HEART OF DOWNTOWN, JEFFERSON SQUARE IS WITHIN A 10-MINUTE WALK OF 47,000 EMPLOYEES AND MANY OF LOUISVILLE’S MOST PROMINENT DESTINATIONS. SURROUNDED

BY GOVERNMENT USES, INCLUDING METRO HALL AND CITY HALL, JEFFERSON SQUARE OFTEN FUNCTIONS AS DOWNTOWN’S CENTRAL GATHERING SPACE AND PLAYS AN OUTSIZE ROLE IN LOUISVILLE’S CIVIC LIFE. Though surrounded by civic buildings and uses, Jefferson Square’s location places it within a 10-minute walk of Louisville’s most famous attractions. These include 4th Street Live!, the Kentucky International Convention Center, the Kentucky Center for the Arts, the KFC Yum! Center, and the various museums/hotels along West Main Street’s Museum Row. According to the Louisville Downtown Partnership, Downtown Louisville’s activity generators, the bulk of which are within this 10-minute walkshed, attract over 11 million visitors annually. Many of these visitors are staying in one of downtown’s 7,000 hotel rooms.

The square is already used by many of the nearby workers and residents in the area. Downtown employers include Humana, Louisville Metro Government, and a wide array of over 1,510 businesses within a 10-minute walk. With a growing downtown population projected to reach 6,000 in 2019, there is a need for downtown to add green spaces and gathering areas. As such, Jefferson Square has the potential to become downtown’s center of gravity, and become a gathering spot for residents, visitors, and office workers.

4th Street Live!

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5-MINUTE WALK

10-MINUTE WALK

681

1,510

BUSINESSES

BUSINESSES

22,360

47,788

EMPLOYEES

EMPLOYEES

1,872

4,769

RESIDENTS

RESIDENTS

Humana

Kentucky Intl.

Convention Center

Clark Memorial Bridge

Ohio River 10-MINUTE WALK

Waterfront Park Waterfront Park Phase IV (Planned)

The Belvedere

KFC Yum! Center

KY Center for the Arts

Humana

Museum Row

Main Street

Humana

5-MINUTE WALK Market Street

City Hall

KY International Convention Center

Metro Hall

Jefferson Street

Baxter Square

Liberty Street

JEFFERSON SQUARE

Fourth Street Live!

Old Walnut Street Park

Muhammad Ali Boulevard

6th Street

4th Street

9th Street

Cathedral of the Assumption

Omni Hotel

Louisville Palace

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Brown Hotel

Broadway

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SHADOW STUDY DUE TO ITS DOWNTOWN LOCATION, JEFFERSON SQUARE IS SURROUNDED BY MID-RISE AND HIGHRISE BUILDINGS. DEPENDING ON THE TIME OF YEAR, THE SQUARE CAN BE UNDER ABUNDANT SUNSHINE, OR BE COVERED BY THE SHADOWS OF NEARBY BUILDINGS. TO UNDERSTAND THE IMPACT OF THESE SHADOWS, THE PLANNING TEAM PERFORMED A SHADOW STUDY. The shadow study, the results of which are shown in the following page, show the impact of nearby buildings on three times of year: Summer Solstice, Fall Equinox, and Winter Solstice. Each time of year was analyzed during three times of the day, capturing morning, afternoon, and early evening hours. The results of this study are detailed below: Summer Solstice: During the summer months, the Square sees the most amount of sunshine overall, especially around noon. Morning and evening house experience an approximate 50% shadow coverage.

Fall Equinox: In September, morning and evening hours result in Jefferson Square being almost completely covered by shadows of nearby buildings. Around noon, the Square remains under mostly sunshine.

Jefferson Square is partly covered by shadows of nearby buildings (November 27 at 11:00 AM)

Winter Equinox: Similar to the Fall Equinox, winter at Jefferson Square experiences heavy shadow coverage during the morning and early evening, and abundant sunshine during the lunchtime noon hour.

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SUMMER SOLSTICE JUNE 21

FALL EQUINOX SEPTEMBER 21

WINTER SOLSTICE DECEMBER 21

9:30 AM

9:30 AM

9:30 AM

12:00 PM

12:00 PM

12:00 PM

6:00 PM

6:00 PM

6:00 PM

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HOW IT CURRENTLY FUNCTIONS THE CURRENT STATE AND DESIGN OF JEFFERSON SQUARE DOES NOT ALLOW FOR THIS OPEN SPACE TO CAPITALIZE ON ITS PRIME LOCATION AND PROXIMITY TO MAJOR CIVIC ASSETS. AS SEEN IN THE DIAGRAMS TO THE RIGHT, THE CURRENT DESIGN MAKES THE PARK EXPERIENCING CONFUSING AND DISCONNECTED FROM ITS SURROUNDINGS. SITE FEATURES The site originally contained a water feature, which is now nonfunctional and surrounded by raised planter beds with seating areas. In the past, this water feature anchored the northern portion of the square, creating a visible gateway into the site.

CIRCULATION Circulation is primarily along pathways and sidewalks that are indirect and inflexible. There is not a recognizable hierarchy of circulation and the site is difficult to navigate.

VIEWS Views into and out of the site are scattered. The site is surrounded by a catalogue of architectural history and activity, but the site’s fragmented configuration inhibits the views that are so unique to this site. Views are also blocked into the site by dense vegetation in raised planters, creating safety and security issues.

MEMORIALS The two memorials currently in the park are poorly located, preventing them from properly showcasing the public servants they honor.

Though the square is already home to memorial events, the current design results in a lack of functional gathering space for large crowds. This results in disjointed crowds standing in spaces with obstructed views of the event and or on uneven and sometimes soggy surfaces.

TREE CANOPY / VEGETATION The existing coverage of “green” on the site provides an opportunity for an urban oasis in this civic district. However, the disconnected placement of green also inhibits programming and flexible space for community gathering.

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EVENT / PROGRAM SPACE Spaces for events and programming for the community are limited. Individual spaces are devoted to certain events, but there are no spaces for large public events, or spaces for observation of activity within the space.

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JEF FE ATT COUN RSON ORN TY LIB EY & L RAR AW Y

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1 FIREFIGHTERS’ MEMORIAL 2 POLICE MEMORIAL

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EXISTING CONDITIONS INVENTORY

Jefferson Square regularly hosts daytime events, such as the Mayor’s Lunchtime Concert Series

Various monuments ad dedications are scattered through the square.

Ramp access to 500 West Jefferson’s parking garage divides the building and its retail tenants from the square.

The Firefighters memorial honors those who have fallen in the line of duty, and is located on 6th Street.

The service area for the 500 West Jefferson Building creates a vacant facade facing the park.

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A Christmas tree anchors the square during the winter months, located over the water fountain.

Held in late November or early December, Light Up Louisville attracts a large crowd to the square.

Jefferson Street includes four travel lanes with on-street parking on both sides.

The south side of the square lacks visibility into the park from Liberty Street.

New interactive Citypost display on Jefferson Street.

The Brutalist-style Hall of Justice provides an interesting architectural vista on Jefferson Street.

Wooden picnic tables in grassy areas are scattered through the square.

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OPPORTUNITIES & CONSTRAINTS 500 W. Jefferson Building: Consider relationship with Jefferson Square, and mediate effects of service area to better integrate with square.

Parking Garage Entrance: Ramp disrupts access, explore relocation or options for intervention

Embrace views and access to surrounding buildings. The square is currently insulated from its urban context.

NORTH On-Street parking along Jefferson. Consider this city managed street for food trucks/staging for square.

Views toward Metro Hall make Jefferson Square a popular destination for protests/ gatherings. Opportunity to strengthen relationship to civic buildings.

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Busy intersection at Jefferson and 6th Street, potential trafficcalming features may create a more welcoming gateway.

Existing elevated platform connecting to ground-level retail tenants of 400. West Jefferson. Access feels disconnected by parking ramp.

Memorials buried within site and accessed through confusing circulation pattern

High visibility corners, despite obstructed views into the site due to dense vegetation

NORTH Existing fountain does not function, covered with wood. Community members expressed a desire for a working fountain.

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Jefferson Street: Lack of interesting streetscape elements and street trees. Opportunity to integrate an upgraded streetscape with square spaces.

THE MASTER PLAN 26

THE VISION FOR JEFFERSON SQUARE “GREAT CIVIC SPACES SERVE AS A STAGE FOR OUR PUBLIC LIVES. THEY ARE A SETTING WHERE SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC EXCHANGES TAKE PLACE, WHERE FRIENDS MEET AND CULTURES MIX.” - PROJECT FOR PUBLIC SPACES “Civic” spaces differentiate themselves from “Public” spaces by providing that space or a platform for individuals and groups to come together and voice their opinion or concerns about their village, town, or city. Historically these squares were mostly hardscape spaces in the heart of the city and typically associated with civic and religious architecture. They served not only as spaces for civic gathering and protesting, but also as centers for celebration, commerce, and social interaction.

TRADITIONAL PLAZA

Civic | Urban | Historic | Grand | Hard

GREEN SYSTEMS

Downtown Louisville has experienced growth and development in recent decades, often at the expense of quality green space and tree canopy.

Locked into the downtown grid of streets and pavement, Jefferson Square is one of the few downtown urban open spaces where visitors and patrons can observe and engage nature. These open spaces should not only be green in color, but also productive landscapes that not only reduce the urban heat island effect, but sustainably manage stormwater on-site, serve as pollinator landscapes, and serve as a display for native vegetation found throughout Louisville and the Ohio River corridor.

Nature | Ecology | Sustainable | Soft

NEW PLAZA

Urban | Civic | Sustainable | Hybrid 27

In addition to existing as a space for civic engagement, Jefferson Square is also a destination for refuge within the busy downtown hustle. Louisville has a rich history with this relationship dating back to the Olmsted design parks systems, and more recently the recapturing of the riverfront for Waterfront Park, phases I-IV. The juxtaposition between urban and nature has evolved throughout the decades into a story that is transitioning into a more symbiotic relationship‌one where urban is now beginning to integrate the environment into its operational cycle and its footprint on larger ecological systems. This square will be an expression of history and education regarding this relationship, unapologetic and responsible. If we need paved areas, this is how we respond to stormwater management. If we provide activities and playful elements, this is how we integrate these elements into the landscapes that have succeeded over time.

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PROJECT GOALS | Re-Introduce the Square THERE ARE MANY DOWNTOWN LOUISVILLE RESIDENTS AND PASSERS-BY THAT DON’T REALIZE THE SIGNIFICANCE OF JEFFERSON SQUARE AS THE OUTDOOR CIVIC SPACE IN DOWNTOWN LOUISVILLE. THIS PROJECT PROMOTES AN INCLUSIVE PROCESS AND TRANSFORMATIVE DESIGN THAT NOT ONLY HONORS THE LEGACY OF THE SPACE BUT FREES IT FROM ITS CURRENT CONSTRAINTS AND EMBRACES THE DYNAMIC AMBITIONS THAT ARE BEING DESIRED OF THIS PUBLIC SQUARE. THIS PROJECT WILL ALSO PROMOTE THE IDENTITY, VISIBILITY, AND AWARENESS OF JEFFERSON SQUARE AND ACCESS TO NATURE AND PROGRAMS IN THE DOWNTOWN CONTEXT. BE BOLD! Proclaim Jefferson Square as Sustainably Beautiful – Sustainability and Beauty are symbiotic in nature when planning and designing an urban space with a diverse catalogue of users, events, and neighbors. Priorities need to be established to “re-present” Jefferson Square by improving connectivity along the perimeter, removing barriers in favor of better circulation, and improving the visual and physical quality of open space that is currently underutilized in its current state. This project will elevate the significance of this space as civic, a memorial, and one of Louisville’s premier downtown urban green spaces!

BE INCLUSIVE Immediately embedded in the civic heart of downtown Louisville, Jefferson Square has the unique potential to embrace not only the adjacent civic structures, but also be an integral destination for all individuals within the community…an address for public concerns and to promote the quality of the community.

PROMOTE A SENSE OF PLACE & AUTHENTICITY The square should not be a copy and paste of best practices from across the globe. There is a wealth of inspiration and provocation in the heritage and future of Louisville. Let’s celebrate what is uniquely Louisville and raise the bar for expectations of what an urban open space can be in downtown Louisville.

EXPAND THE HOURS OF OPERATION The project explores options for integral lighting that not only provides a safe space in the evenings and nights, but also transforms the space into a dynamic and beautiful contribution to the downtown night scene. This project provides options for lighting both within the square as well as lighting of building facades that surround the space, expanding the volume of space and expressing the surrounding architecture.

INSIDE-OUT / OUTSIDE-IN Develop a visionary plan that is captivating from the outside as well as performs as an aperture to the unique surroundings. The architectural catalogue that surrounds the site is incredible and should be celebrated from within.

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DESIGN INTENT THE TRANSFORMATIVE DESIGN FOR JEFFERSON SQUARE HONORS THE LEGACY OF THE SPACE AND RESOLVES ITS CURRENT CONSTRAINTS. THIS VISION EMBRACES NEEDS AND WANTS EXPRESSED BY STAKEHOLDERS AND THE COMMUNITY, AND CREATES A GATHERING SPACE DESIGNED TO MEET LOUISVILLE’S NEEDS. SITE FEATURES The most distinctive feature in the new square is a large flexible canopy structure. Using reflective materials, the canopy will become an iconic downtown feature that both transforms and blends with its surroundings. Located in the center of the new square is an interactive water feature that will appeal to visitors of all ages, and can be turned on and off for various events.

CIRCULATION Rather than being relegated to perimeter sidewalks, circulation now happens through the square itself. The new circulation pattern is clear and intuitive for the square’s users. Paths transverse through the site and lead to inviting gathering areas, while creating new ways to move through downtown.

VIEWS & CANOPY The central gathering area and canopy are designed to maximize views of two of downtown’s most iconic civic buildings: Metro Hall and City Hall.

MEMORIALS The proposed Memorial Garden will be a space for reflection and contemplation, in honor of Louisville’s fallen heroes. The garden may include a memorial wall honoring the names and backgrounds of fallen officers and firefighters.

This space can also accommodate the two memorials currently on the square, creating a more inviting setting for these sculptures.

TREE CANOPY / VEGETATION Maintaining a robust tree canopy is of utmost importance to Louisville’s health. As such, this design places trees in locations where they can thrive, while creating inviting shaded areas that do not obstruct views into the park.

EVENT / PROGRAM SPACE Jefferson Square has the potential to become downtown’s premier event destination. The new design includes a large central gathering area that has the flexibility to host events of all types and sizes, from small concerts to large festivals.

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POLICE MEMORIAL

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SITE PLAN A

B

C

PAVING MATERIALS There are three primary pavement types found within the square redesign. The central gathering space in the center of the square will be paved with a granite stone paver that will be durable, beautiful, and timeless. The perimeter of the square is intended to be a concrete sidewalk poured with the historic mix that is found throughout downtown Louisville. The entrances or gateways to the central square will be granite cobbles for texture.

LANDSCAPE PLANTINGS The lush landscape that surrounds the central gathering space and provides a buffer from the surrounding streets is intended to be composed of native trees, shrubs, grasses and perennials that will provide color and seasonal interested throughout the year. The removal of turf lawn from the square will reduce overall landscape maintenance.

D

STORMWATER MANAGEMENT In an effort to minimize stormwater runoff into the already overcrowded downtown combined sewer system, the renovation of Jefferson Square will install several drainage channels around the perimeter of the square. Integrated into the proposed planting beds, these rock lined drainage features will provide an opportunity to slow the runoff rate and provide water for plant material.

E

MEMORIAL WALL AND GARDEN This area of the square is designed as a special moment, honoring those that have fallen in the line of duty. The Memorial Wall is intended as a place for names, photos, and possibly stories of the lives of those fallen. The Garden will serve as the new location for the existing memorial statues surrounded by seasonal plant color.

F

REFLECTION CANOPY Designed as a multipurpose structure, the Reflection Canopy not only will provide shade and shelter from the elements, but it will also participate as an evening movie screen, market pavilion, art gallery, lighting feature, wayfinding and signage element, and much more. The polished stainless-steel material will also reflect the people, the vegetation, and the surrounding architecture.

WATER FEATURE This element was requested the most during engagement with the community. The design places the water feature in the middle of the central gathering space to promote visibility and participation. The series of pop-up jets flush with the pavement will not only animate the space throughout the day but has the flexibility to be shut off during events where additional paved area is needed for circulation and gathering.

Lighting will also be integrated into the water feature for evening appeal.

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METRO HALL

Jefferson Street

B

A

6th Street

C

D

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E 500 WEST JEFFERSON TOWER

Liberty Street

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CANOPY The horizontal members of the canopy roof are designed in a “V” shape to add strength to the structure, and to provide a distinctive reflective quality to the surface. This “V” profile also provides the opportunity to catch stormwater and channel it to the stormwater features found throughout the square.

The placement and arching gesture of the Reflective Canopy provides more than shade for the users of the square. It also operates as an aperture by framing views of the surrounding architecture. The polished stainless-steel material provides a highly reflective surface that will reflect the surrounding colorful vegetation, the architecture, and the people that enjoy the space. Placement of the support columns mimic a random placement of trees found throughout the Ohio River corridor.

Lighting and AV equipment will be integrated into the overall design of the Reflective Canopy. As Jefferson Square evolves from day to night, the canopy will serve as a unique feature that will not only illuminate the space, but also provide entertainment and programming throughout the year.

CONCEPT DEVELOPMENT

REFLECTIVE MATERIALITY

CONCEPT DEVELOPMENT

EVOKE HISTORIC REFERENCES

LOUISVILLE JEFFERSON SQUARE REDESIGN

LOUISVILLE JEFFERSON SQUARE REDESIGN

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LANDSCAPE

FOLD UP

The transformation of Jefferson Square recommends large planting gestures around the perimeter of the space while allowing for the center to be flexible and open for circulation, gathering, and programming. Emerging from the surface, the planting beds are bordered by precast walls for seating with views of the central space, and wood footbridges over stone-lined stormwater channels

providing more access from the street to the square. The redesign will place emphasis on a lush landscape with a variety of native plant material for interest throughout the seasons. The updated planting plan will incorporate several species of shade trees to reduce the urban heat island effect. It will also incorporate layers of evergreen trees and shrubs, flowering shrubs, ornamental grasses, and seasonal perennials.

LANDSCAPE BEDS WITH SEATING AREAS

RAISED GATHERING AREAS

SCULPTURAL LOUNGE SEATING

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WATER FEATURE Placed in the center of the square for visibility and access, the interactive pop-up jet water feature will be a destination for families during the spring, summer, and fall months. The dancing and splashing columns of water will activate Jefferson Square throughout the day, provide white noise within the busy urban setting, and offer a cool destination for

families during the hot summer months. The popup jet design allows for the water feature to be shut off during large gathering events to extend the square’s usable space. Integrated lighting will animate the water feature during the evening and night hours.

INTERACTIVE WATER FEATURES FLEXIBLE OPERATION

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STORMWATER

FOLD DOWN

The redesigned Jefferson Square will incorporate a sustainable stormwater strategy intended to reduce and minimize the impact on the downtown combined sewer system. The master plan recommends introducing a series of connected planting beds around the perimeter of the square.

This network of planting beds will collect surface runoff from the surrounding pavement and the runoff from the Reflective Canopy. The planting beds will also serve as storage basins connected through stone channels that line the bottom of each bed.

PERMEABLE PAVERS & TREE GRATES STORMWATER BIO-SWALES

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MEMORIAL WALL & GARDEN The redesign of Jefferson Square will relocate the existing memorial statues to a prominent and dedicated location within the overall square experience. The redesign also introduces a Memorial Wall designed to honor past and future fallen officers. This area of the square is designed as a special moment, honoring those that have

fallen in the line of duty. The Memorial Wall is intended as a place for names, photos, and stories of the lives of those fallen. The Garden will serve as the new location for the existing memorial statues surrounded by seasonal plant color.

MEMORIAL GARDEN

FALLEN HEROES WALL PLAQUES

RELOCATED MEMORIALS

CONTEMPLATIVE & REFLECTIVE SPACE

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MEMORIAL WALL & GARDEN

RELOCATED MEMORIAL

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SIGNAGE & WAYFINDING There are many stories to be shared in Jefferson Square including International Unity, River Connections, Civic Pride, and Local Heritage.

Jefferson Square will share these stories in a variety of applications including environmental graphics, engraved pavement, story panels, and interpretive placemaking. Below are examples

of signage and graphic types that have served as best practice and will be referenced to explore final recommendations later in the project. The adjacent page illustrates a conceptual layout of signage, artwork, memorials, and story panels.

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METRO HALL

6th Street

Jefferson Street

500 WEST JEFFERSON TOWER

LEGEND Identification Sign Memorial Interpretive Placemaking Interpretive Story Panel Regulatory Sign Liberty Street

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Potential location for Commissioned Artwork

NORTH

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PLAN OF ACTION 48

How we will get there THE FUTURE JEFFERSON SQUARE WILL BE DOWNTOWN’S URBAN LIVING ROOM - A PLACE DESIGNED FOR THE LOUISVILLE COMMUNITY TO COME TOGETHER AND ENJOY DOWNTOWN. THE REALIZATION OF THIS VISION WILL BE A COLLABORATIVE PROCESS BETWEEN LOUISVILLE METRO GOVERNMENT, DOWNTOWN BUSINESSES AND USERS, AND PROJECT STAKEHOLDERS. This vision for Jefferson Square outlines a transformation from a fragmented and underutilized green, to a dynamic and engaging downtown living room. This vision and the improvements it includes have resulted from an intensive year-long master planning process that identified near and long-term issues, reviewed and considered design alternatives, an established a community-driven design.

SCHEDULE FOR NEXT STEPS: Stakeholder organization: Louisville Metro, Louisville Downtown Partnership, others as needed 3 months Design Development X months

Implementation of this vision can be achievable through a structured yet flexible design process.

Community needs may change, priorities will be altered, and not all aspects of the design will be implemented as planned. It is important that this plan provides flexibility in the manner that the design for Jefferson Square is implemented. The sale of the former PNC Plaza tower, known as 500 West Jefferson, may affect implementation depending on improvements to the building’s exterior spaces. As such, it is recommended to coordinate with this stakeholder to ensure the square redesign aligns with planned enhancements to the downtown tower.

Construction Documents X - X months Includes: 4-8 week contingency for departmental reviews Bidding/procurement X months Construction X - X months

The following pages outline an implementation strategy for a full build-out of the proposed design, followed by a maintenance strategy, a programming strategy, and order of magnitude costs to support planning and funding efforts.

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IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGY DEPENDING ON FUNDING AVAILABILITY, A FULL BUILD-OUT OF THE JEFFERSON SQUARE REDESIGN MAY REQUIRE A PHASED APPROACH. THE PROPOSED DESIGN AND ITS RECOMMENDED IMPROVEMENTS ALLOW FOR A PHASED IMPLEMENTATION, OUTLINED IN THIS PAGE. INTERIM IMPROVEMENTS To build momentum and excitement of the park re-design, the following interim projects are recommended to be implemented immediately following this planning process:

PHASE II IMPROVEMENTS Following streetscape enhancements, and depending on funding availability, the second phase of improvements should include: • Demolition and site preparation for Jefferson Square Site.

• Continue to activate Jefferson Square with on-going programming, including lunchtime concerts, food trucks, and special events.

• Construction of park design, including courtyard with water feature, landscaped areas, memorial wall/garden, and stormwater drainage features.

• Replace wooden picnic tables with movable furnishings, including tables, chairs, and lounge seating.

• Ensure in the initial design that a future canopy can be accommodated within the site.

• Work with new owner of 500 West Jefferson for potential programming opportunities, and to coordinate improvements to the building, its parking structure, and retail spaces.

PHASE III IMPROVEMENTS Building upon the success of the initial park design, the following improvements may be undertaken to finalize the full build-out of the vision for Jefferson Square:

PHASE I IMPROVEMENTS Following the development of design documents, the following improvements to the Jefferson Square block may be accomplished:

• Develop a fundraising strategy for the canopy structure, including naming rights.

• Improve the Jefferson Street, 6th Street and Liberty Street streetscapes with fixed sidewalks, new street trees, and landscaped areas.

• Upon securing funding, construct canopy structure.

• Add bump-outs with improved crossings at following intersections: Jefferson Street and 6th Street; Liberty Street and 6th Street; Liberty Street and Armory Place.

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METRO HALL

PHASE I STREETSCAPE IMPROVEMENTS

Jefferson Street

PHASE II SQUARE REDESIGN

6th Street

PHASE III CANOPY STRUCTURE

500 WEST JEFFERSON TOWER

Liberty Street

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NORTH

MAINTENANCE & programming STRATEGY THE GOAL OF A MAINTENANCE & PROGRAMMING STRATEGY IS TO PROVIDE AN AESTHETICALLY PLEASING AND DYNAMIC ENVIRONMENT SQUARE. THE REDESIGN OF JEFFERSON SQUARE IS ONLY A FIRST STEP IN THE TRANSFORMATION OF THIS DOWNTOWN SPACE - ENSURING THE SQUARE IS WELL-MAINTAINED AND PROGRAMMED IS PARAMOUNT TO ITS LONG TERM SUCCESS.

MAINTENANCE STRATEGY

PROGRAMMING STRATEGY

Regularly scheduled service and monitoring of the grounds and facilities are essential to meet the goals and needs of visitors, to support programs and events, and to reduce liability risks.

Although no formal agreement exists between Louisville Metro and community organizations for the on-going operations of Jefferson Square, such an agreement should be developed to successfully transform the square into a downtown destination. Community Partners (Trees Louisville, Fund for the Arts, Louisville Tourism, Louisville Food Truck Association) may provide assistance for maintenance and programming outside of Louisville Metro’s typical operations. These items include:

The following Maintenance Strategy is intended to provide a framework for developing, defining, and implementing standards for maintenance, management, and operations for Jefferson Square.

• Louisville Metro is responsible for maintenance and capital improvements.

• Ornamental/seasonal plantings.

• Louisville Downtown Partnership is responsible for programming and special events coordination.

• Playscape structures (swings, hammocks, movable seating and tables, outdoor lounge areas)

• The Louisville Downtown Management District (LDMD) is responsible for minor day-to-day maintenance and additional site beautification (landscaping of planting areas and planters).

• Special park programming (movie nights, small nighttime events, lunchtime gatherings, food truck festival, yoga on the square, farmer’s market) • Trees Louisville should be utilized as a steward and advocate for trees in the square.

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PROGRAMMING examples Jefferson Square’s location surrounds it by civic uses that add to the square’s prominence and viability. However, this results in a lack of active ground-level uses around the square that would attract downtown visitors and non-governmental workers. Consequently, programming for the square will be crucial to attract crowds outside

LUNCHTIME CONCERT 50 - 100 Attendants

FARMER’S MARKET 30 - 40 Vendors 100 - 200 Attendants

of the 9-5 workday time frame. The proposed design is able to host events of all types and sizes during various times of year. This programming will require coordination among downtown stakeholders and agencies. The following are examples of potential programming for Jefferson Square.

Small concerts featuring local artists can act as a backdrop to a lively lunchtime scene, without requiring a formal stage.

A farmer’s market could provide downtown workers, residents and visitors with access to fresh and local food.

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Jefferson Square already hosts memorial events, though these often lack appropriate seating areas. The new square can accommodate large seated crowds in rows of movable chairs.

Due to its location and nearby civic buildings, the square is a popular location for rallies and demonstrations of all sizes. The design’s large open space will continue to be home to these.

Jefferson Square’s proposed central space is a perfect fit for large events that attract thousands, such as Light Up Louisville

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Memorial EVENT 300 - 400 Attendants

Public rally 800 - 1,000 Attendants

LIGHT UP LOUISVILLE 1000+ Attendants

ORDER OF MAGNITUDE COSTS The following probable costs are based on general planning and design parameters and represent order-ofmagnitude costs, in 2018 dollars, that are suitable for general planning purposes. These are not intended to represent total project costs and should not be referenced as such. Actual project costs must be based on a build-up of more detailed design information.

IMPROVEMENT

COST

A

Streetscape: Includes sidewalks, granite curbs, bump-outs, lighting fixtures, and landscaped areas.

$440,000

B

Courtyard: Includes paving, site furnishings, site lighting, landscaping (trees and tree grates), and utilities.

$1,700,000

C

Landscaped Beds: Includes lighting, concrete seat walls, and landscaping (topsoil, turf and trees).

D

Water Feature: Includes feature walls, basin, pumps, piping, electrical connections, and lighting.

E

Drainage Features: Includes lighting, concrete seat walls, bridges, swales, and landscaping (topsoil, trees and seeding).

$850,000

F

Memorial Wall, Garden and Deck: Includes lighting, memorial wall, wood deck, and landscaping (trees and tree grates).

$420,000

G

Shade Canopy: Includes concrete footings, uplighting, and canopy structure.

$2,900,000

Total

$7,680,000

I

Additional Opportunity 500 West Jefferson Ramp/Plaza: Includes extending concrete bridge, replacing railing, new concrete planter on bridge, landscaped areas, and bollard lighting.

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$290,000 $1,080,000

$375,700

METRO HALL

Jefferson Street

STREETSCAPE

A

LANDSCAPED BEDS SHADE CANOPY

C LANDSCAPED BEDS

G

6th Street

STREETSCAPE

RAMP TO GARAGE

C

WATER FEATURE

I

D

A COURTYARD

B 500 WEST JEFFERSON TOWER

E F DRAINAGE FEATURES

MEMORIAL

E A DRAINAGE FEATURES

Liberty Street

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STREETSCAPE

NORTH

The future

Jefferson square 58

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LOUISVILLE METRO GOVERNMENT

FEBRUARY 2019