ISSUED FEBRUARY 2015

HOUSTON THEATER DISTRICT MASTER PLAN The Houston Theater District Master Plan has been sponsored by

Supported by • Alley Theatre • City of Houston • Da Camera of Houston • Hobby Center for the Performing Arts • Houston Ballet • Houston Downtown Management District • Houston Grand Opera • Houston Symphony • Society for the Performing Arts • Theatre Under The Stars (TUTS)

Consultant team lead by

With support from • Clack Condon Associates • The Principle Partnering Group •2 RPH Houston Consulting Theater Group District Master Plan • Smith & Company Architects • Tranquillity Park design by White Oak Studio CONTENTS

Executive Summary Page 4

01 - THE VISION Page 6

Vision Statement

02 - BACKGROUND AND PRINCIPLES Page 12

Site Context

Placemaking: Technology, Lighting, and Public Art

Access and Movement

Street Life and Walkability

Built Form

03 - MASTER PLAN FOR 2025 Page 24

The Illustrative Master Plan

Center Stage

Bagby Boulevard

Livable Streets

04 - TAKING ACTION NOW Page 60

Programming and Festivals

Parking and Underground

Branded Wayfinding

05 - PHASING AND COSTS Page 76

Phasing, Strategy, and Cost Estimates

3 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The Houston Theater District plays Introduction an important role as the focus of arts, The 2025 Theater District Master Plan, entertainment and cultural life and Chapter 1 describes the vision for initiated by Houston First Corporation, local identity for the City of Houston. the Theater District and outlines its establishes a vision for the future of new identity - an urban and edgy arts Houston is a city of discovery, as much the performing arts experience in district where everyone is on stage, of what makes Houston interesting downtown Houston. and people come to see and be seen. and vibrant is not readily apparent to The master plan strategy outlines the the visitor. The downtown and the Chapter 2 defines the context and path towards a revitalized Theater Theater District are no exception. study area for the plan. A set of guiding District that offers improved activation, principles describe the aspirations of At first glance, the Theater District aesthetics and increased opportunities the district and the current issues and seems empty and devoid of people for investment. opportunities in getting there. These and activities. Venture below ground, four principles include: Access and At the core of the plan are three major however, and the area is teeming movement; Street life and walkability; areas of activity: Center Stage, with a with people traveling to and from the Built form and activation; Placemaking, redesigned Jones Plaza transforming various performance venues. lighting and public art. the public realm; Bagby Boulevard, At street level, the urban fabric in which Bagby Street becomes Chapter 3 is the master plan and of the Theater District suggests a pedestrian-oriented boulevard contains a set of plans, programs and that our performance venues and flanked by new high-rise, mixed use activities that span short and long term. organizations are not actively engaged development, and; Livable Streets, The initiatives outlined work together with the city. The stakeholders of the a re-imagining of the public realm as to promote change in an integrated district, however, want to extend a place that is fun, inviting, safe and and harmonious way. What is done the vibrancy and dynamism of comfortable in all seasons and all times today sets the stage for additional their organizations, performers and of day. The redevelopment of Bayou projects and programs that will knit patrons, and express this externally Place is a key component of all three the district together creating a unique by engaging with one another to activity areas. place and set of user experiences bring street life to the community. that have a sum much larger than its 2025 Master Plan Layout commensurate parts. Both active and passive forms of The 2025 Master Plan document branding and activation will lure provides a framework that establishes Chapter 4, “Taking Action Now,” people to, and keep them on, city a branded, place-based identity for the describes projects and actions that can streets before and after performances Houston Theater District pivoting off be taken immediately to change the as well as throughout the day and its central location in the heart of the experience and the perception of the into the evening. region. The visions and the actions district, laying the foundation for future initiatives. arising from it will take the dynamic energy and creativity found within the Chapter 5 lays out a phasing and various buildings and organizations in implementation schedule to realize the district and express them externally, the plan, including an estimate of total creating a new experience for the arts annual costs that can be referenced patrons, downtown office workers, when planning future project funding. residents and visitors to the area.

4 Houston Theater District Master Plan ILLUSTRATIVE MASTER PLAN

HOUSTON THEATER DISTRICT MASTERPLAN

Theater District Boundary Focus Area: Center Stage Focus Area: Bagby Boulevard Existing Built Form AQUARIUM Proposed Built Form CONGRESS STREET Proposed Cafe HOUSTON WORTHAM Open Space FOR DANCE NEW THEATER BALLET CENTER Existing Landscape MIXED USE Proposed Landscape MIXEDNEW USE Proposed Street Grid PRESTON STREET Pedestrian Trail Festival Street

NEW Branded Crosswalk MIXED USE Existing Pedestrian Bridge

NEW ALLEY PRAIRIE STREET Proposed Pedestrian Bridge THEATREHOUSTON THEATER MIXED USE

NEW DISTRICT MASTERPLAN VENUE

HOBBY CENTER Theater District Boundary JONES HOUSTON THEATER HALLFocus Area: CenterTEXAS AVENUE Stage DISTRICT MASTERPLAN Focus Area: Bagby Boulevard

RUSK STREET Existing Built Form AQUARIUM ProposedCAPITOL STREET Built Form BAGBYSTREET LOUISIANA STREET Theater DistrictCONGRESS Boundary STREET Proposed Cafe HOUSTON

WORTHAM Focus Area:WALKER STREETCenter Stage MILAM STREETOpen Space HOUSTON THEATER FOR DANCE NEW THEATER BALLET CENTER Focus Area: Bagby Boulevard Existing Landscape DISTRICT MASTERPLAN MIXED USE Existing Built Form Proposed Landscape SMITH STREET AQUARIUM MIXEDNEW USE Proposed Built Form Proposed Street Grid PRESTON STREET CONGRESS STREET Proposed Cafe Pedestrian Trail HOUSTON Theater District Boundary WORTHAM Open Space Festival Street FOR DANCEFocusNEW Area: Center Stage NEW THEATER BALLET CENTER Existing Landscape Branded Crosswalk FocusMIXED USE Area: Bagby Boulevard MIXED USE Proposed Landscape Existing Pedestrian Bridge Existing Built Form NEW MIXEDNEW USE AQUARIUM ALLEY PRAIRIE STREETProposed Street Grid Proposed Pedestrian Bridge ProposedPRESTON Built STREETTHEATRE Form MIXED USE Pedestrian Trail CONGRESS STREET Proposed Cafe NEW HOUSTON VENUE Festival Street WORTHAM Open Space NEW FOR DANCE NEW 5 THEATER BALLET CENTER Branded Crosswalk Existing Landscape MIXED USE MIXED USE Existing Pedestrian Bridge Proposed Landscape HOBBY NEW MIXEDNEW USE CENTER ALLEY PRAIRIE STREET Proposed Pedestrian Bridge THEATRE Proposed Street Grid MIXED USE PRESTON STREET Pedestrian Trail NEW VENUE Festival Street JONES HALL TEXAS AVENUE NEW Branded Crosswalk MIXED USE Existing Pedestrian Bridge HOBBY NEW CENTER ALLEY PRAIRIE STREET Proposed Pedestrian Bridge THEATRE RUSK STREET MIXED USE

NEW VENUE JONES CAPITOL STREET BAGBYSTREET TEXAS AVENUE HALL LOUISIANA STREET

HOBBY WALKER STREET MILAM STREET CENTER RUSK STREET

CAPITOL STREET BAGBYSTREET JONES TEXASLOUISIANA AVENUE STREET HALL SMITH STREET

WALKER STREET MILAM STREET

RUSK STREET

CAPITOL STREET BAGBYSTREET LOUISIANA STREETSMITH STREET

WALKER STREET MILAM STREET

SMITH STREET The vision statement articulates our aspirations for the Theater District and a framework for action and positive change. We are building on the existing strengths of internationally recognized arts organizations supported by the thriving arts community in Houston and by city leadership. Our vision is grounded in our history but speaks to a different future - one where the Theater District is a district in fact as well as in name. The changes we are calling for will bring a wholesale transformation of our community and create a district unique to Houston and a draw for patrons of the arts from around the world.

“In Minds” public art piece, by the German artist, Tony Cragg. Cast in bronze located in front of the Hobby Center

6 Houston Theater District Master Plan 01 - THE VISION

VISION STATEMENT OBJECTIVES IDENTITY: URBAN AND EDGY

7 01 - THE VISION

Vision: The Houston Theater District will offer an immersive arts and culture environment where the vitality of the performing arts will spill into the streets, sidewalks and public spaces. Expressions of artistic activity will be complemented by interven- tions and innovations adding interactivity, connectivity, energy, and life into the district. This will create a thriving district where Houstonians from all walks of life will come to enjoy and engage in creative collaboration.

8 Houston Theater District Master Plan CHAPTER 01

OBJECTIVES Excite and Discover Transformation Objectives define the more specific Convey a feeling of excitement, Foster exposure to the arts by results the Theater District Master energy and discovery, a place transforming building exteriors, Plan aims to achieve by 2025. where Houstonians are eager to streets, and signage to create a These objectives underlie the project visit and see what is going on cohesive experience throughout recommendations (page 24 onwards) the Theater District and realize the vision of the Houston Theater District.

Placemaking Connectivity Create a sense of place through Develop a seamless experience the use of art, landscape, where patrons are always technology, and redevelopment connected to the Theater to create a new look and feel District’s events and activities and new activities in the area

Entertainment Activity Access Encourage patrons to arrive Provide outdoor public spaces Welcome visitors arriving by early and stay late by offering that engage, educate and foot, car, bicycle or transit and opportunities to dine, drink, entertain Houstonians and reduce the stress associated shop and stroll tourists alike, generating both with driving to and from the daytime and night time activities Theater District

Destination Buffalo Bayou Celebrate Create a daytime and after-work Celebrate the Buffalo Bayou Celebrate Houston’s diversity of destination for downtown and connect the Bayou to arts, culture and community visitors, employees and the Theater District visually, residents physically and experientially

9 01 - THE VISION

URBAN AND EDGY: THE PLACE TO SEE AND BE SEEN

The future of the Theater District is a place that combines the elegance and sophistication of many of its venues with energy and liveliness on the streets and in public spaces- a place that is dynamic, urban and edgy.

The desire to create a unique identity As such, a new identity is envisioned for the Theater District was a key driver for the future, a place that is urban, of this plan. While a hub for high quality edgy, and a place to see and be seen. performing arts events in Texas and the Enhancing Houston’s hub for the Southwest region, Houston’s Theater performing arts, the Theater District District has the potential to become will also offer active, vibrant places on an even more attractive and lively the streets and in public areas where destination in a similar way to its peers people come to visit at all times of day in London, New York, Chicago and just to see what is going on. The buzz Montreal. of people enjoying the cafes, shops, plazas and pedestrian-oriented spaces A diversity of performances and events during the day will spill over into the cater to a wide range of ages, tastes evening theater crowd, encouraging and preferences. Theater, opera, visitors to arrive early and stay late. symphony, ballet, contemporary dance, chamber music, and jazz represent Outdoor performances, interactive some, but by no means all, of the art, lighting displays, markets and performance art that can be found other temporary and permanent within the Theater District’s venues. events and installations will enliven the Through extensive discussion, the district beyond the boundaries of the stakeholder group agreed that the performing arts venues. These activities dynamism of their events needs to be will be supported by a backbone of expressed externally to bring vibrancy public realm improvements that will to the streets of their community. create more inviting spaces for people to linger, enjoy, and feel safe at all times of day.

10 Houston Theater District Master Plan CHAPTER 01

11 ThisAD MINTIS chapter ULLUPTA sets NONSEQUAMthe stage for QUAM, the 2025SEQUE Master LANI ODITIOR Plan. ItSI describesIPSAM DOLES the ID ET VOLO BLATIS UTATI OFFICIA PRO current site context for the Theater TE ODIC TECEATUS ACEPEDI GENDELI QUODIPISDistrict. Guiding NUS ET ULLAB principles ID ET articulateIUSA DERCITIUNTIOthe urban environment IDENIS UT OCCUPTU and public realmRESSEQUIATEM experience REM that EUMQUAE the plan ultimatelyELITIBEARUM seeks HILLABOR to achieve. AUT OMNIM FACESERRO OMMOSAE OFFICTUR RATIBUS,The major CONSERE, issues and opportunities for the district are organized into four guiding principles: - Placemaking, Lighting and Public Art - Access and Movement - Street Life and Walkability - Built Form and Activation

The Alley Theatre, designed by Ulrich Franzen to “sing from any viewpoint” was built in 1968, and stands as a brutalist sculpture in the Theater District landscape

12 Houston Theater District Master Plan 02 - BACKGROUND AND PRINCIPLES

SITE CONTEXT ACCESS AND MOVEMENT PLACEMAKING, LIGHTING, AND STREET LIFE AND WALKABILITY PUBLIC ART BUILT FORM

13 02 - BACKGROUND AND PRINCIPLES

SITE CONTEXT The 2025 Theater District Master Plan, initiated by Houston First Corporation, will establish a vision for the future of the performing arts experience in downtown Houston.

The City of Houston has a long history of supporting the performing arts, with its first professional Wortham Ballet Center Center for Dance production staged on June 11, 1838. While venues have come and gone, the Theater District has Bayou Place Alley Theatre grown continuously and is one of HISTORIC only a handful of cities in the US DISTRICT Hobby that has resident companies in Center opera, symphony, ballet and theater. Jones Chamber music, jazz, contemporary Hall dance, and other programs can also be found here.

CIVIC CENTER SKYLINE DISTRICT DISTRICT

The Theater District is bounded by is Sesquicentennial Park leading to Franklin Avenue to the north, I-45 to the Bayou. During the masterplanning the west, Louisiana Street to the east process, Tranquillity Park was added (including Jones Hall), and Capitol to the study area as an important and Walker Streets to the south. public space and access point (via Surrounding neighborhoods include: underground parking) to the district.

• The Skyline District (office towers); There are several major performing • The Historic District including arts organizations who produce and/or Market Square Park, and; perform in the Theater District: • The Civic Center District (City Hall, the public library). • Alley Theatre • Da Camera of Houston Two plazas form the center of the site; • Hobby Center for the Performing Arts Jones Plaza and Fish Plaza, around • Houston Grand Opera which are the major performance • Houston Ballet venues including Jones Hall, the • Houston Symphony Wortham Theater Center, and the Alley • Society for the Performing Arts Theatre. Behind the Wortham Center • Theatre Under The Stars

14 Houston Theater District Master Plan CHAPTER 02

GREATER HOUSTON

GEORGE BUSH INTERCONTINENTAL AIRPORT GREENSPOINT

45

59

90 10 90 10

THEATER DISTRICT

610 45 DOWNTOWN 610

GALLERIA/ 59 UPTOWN 45

TEXAS MEDICAL CENTER

HOBBY AIRPORT

In the context of the city, the Theater into the district along Capitol Street their primary mode of transportation. District covers 17 blocks centrally and Rusk Street. The humid, subtropical climate of located along the northwest edge the city also has a major influence of downtown Houston, adjacent to Houston itself is the largest city in on how residents and visitors move Interstate 45. It is very accessible Texas, and one of the largest cities in about, whether in the comfort of air from both I-45 and I-10. The “Inner the country, with a population of over 2 conditioned vehicles or in the extensive Loop” (Interstate 610) is one of two million encompassing an area of over underground tunnel system that concentric ring roads providing traffic 600 square miles. The Greater Houston extends throughout the downtown. movement in the city. The Theater metropolitan area has a population of District will also enjoy a new transit over 6 million across 10,000 square The following sections describe key connection with the nearly complete miles. As such, residents are spread issues and opportunities for the extension of Houston’s light rail system across a wide geographic area and rely Theater District which have guided the heavily on the private automobile as development of the plan.

15 02 - BACKGROUND AND PRINCIPLES

PLACEMAKING: TECHNOLOGY, LIGHTING AND ART

Existing Condition: Tranquillity Park with a view towards downtown

PRINCIPLE CHALLENGES Create a cohesive physical and digital identity for the Theater District using Lack of cohesive district identity creating a sense of place, both day and night technology, lighting, landscaping, public art and street treatments, and Lack of dynamic or digital displays creating excitement at night create gateways that indicate that you have arrived in the district. Weak social media presence for the Theater District

At night, the district has many dark and shadowy areas, creating a perception of lack of safety

Most buildings are not at a human scale

Restrictive signage regulations discourage branding

Lack of national brand recognition for the Theater District

The parking garages are the first point-of-entry to the Theater District and do not create a sense of arrival

Public art is interesting but is only in a few isolated locations, and is not necessarily interactive

Limited guidance on cohesive street lighting and pedestrian friendly sidewalk lighting

16 Houston Theater District Master Plan CHAPTER 02

PLACEMAKING

TheaterTheater DistrictDistrict Boundary

Built Form

Bagby Boulevard

AQUARIUMAQUARIUM Building Access

Existing HOUSTONHOUSTON Building Access WORTHAM FOR DANCE BALLETBALLETFOR CENTER CENTER DANCE THEATERTHEATER Proposed Building Access

Public Plaza

TheaterTheater DistrictDistrict Gateways

ALLEY FestivalFestival StreetStreet THEATRETHEATRE Directional View NEW Directional View VENUE Buffalo Bayou View

HOBBY CENTERCENTER STAGESTAGE CENTER Existing ArtArt Proposed ArtArt JONESJONES HALL HALL Existing Pedestrian BridgeBridge BAGBY BOULEVARD Proposed Pedestrian BridgeBridge Pedestrian RouteRoute // TrailTrail

OPPORTUNITIES

Define a unique identity and brand for the Theater District

Real-time, outdoor displays to showcase current and upcoming performances in the Theater District

Develop a digital strategy to increase online presence

Leverage large, blank facades of the Theater District Venues and parking garages for digital displays and large scale projections

Temporary, rotating, and interactive public art by local artists in public spaces or as temporary activities

Lighting, both for safety at night as well as for activation and creating an identity

Wayfinding that reflects Theater District identity and is consistent between both pedestrian and vehicle systems

Upgrade landscaping for shade and aesthetics

Allow cultural heritage to be visible in all public spaces and create a vibrant district for arts and culture, dining and bar scene

Activate underpasses, plazas, parking garage entrances and connections to the Bayou with dynamic installations

Gateway treatments at all major gateways, and pavement treatments unique to the Theater District 17 02 - BACKGROUND AND PRINCIPLES

ACCESS AND MOVEMENT

Existing Condition: Vehicles queuing to enter the parking garage during performances

PRINCIPLE CHALLENGES Access and Movement is based on a hierarchy of travel modes where While there are many parking spaces in the Theater District, it is difficult to find a parking space quickly and to navigate the garage entrances and exits. This causes backups on Smith Street and priority is given to active forms of Texas Avenue, and delays curtain times for shows transport while still accommodating the private car. Theater District visitors Most walking journeys are in the garages and tunnels, diminishing the sense of arrival and the beginning of a special event or night out could be able to quickly and easily drive or take transit to the area, park Jones Plaza creates a barrier between the Alley Theatre, Jones Hall, the Bayou and downtown once, and then explore on foot in an Houston by blocking sight lines and being impenetrable from the street environment that is safe, interesting Access to the Buffalo Bayou is limited and lacks a strong visual connection to the district and attractive. Long block sizes located west of Smith Street reduces pedestrian permeability and walking Walking Bayou Place is a physical and visual barrier between the Hobby Center and the Theater District

Cycling The perceptions that visitors will not walk outside for any distance due to the climate (heat and humidity) has lead to vehicle-oriented design Bus Streets are not pedestrian-oriented, and lack amenities for comfort and protection while walking

Taxi The new light rail extension is currently perceived as a barrier

Private Parking garages are confusing and people become easily lost Car Tranquillity Park is difficult to access from Bagby Street as it is also elevated above street level due Model for a human-centered transportation to the parking garage that sits underneath system Pedestrian and vehicular wayfinding is infrequent, inconspicuous, and does not identify all Theater District destinations or parking locations

18 Houston Theater District Master Plan CHAPTER 02

ACCESS AND PARKING

TheaterTheater DistrictDistrict Boundary

TheaterTheater DistrictDistrict Places

Vehicular AccessAccess fromfrom thethe HighwayHighway

Vehicle RouteRoute toto Parking

TheaterTheater DistrictDistrict P Parking CENTER STAGESTAGE

P Proposed TheaterTheater District PP P Parking GaragesGarages

ALLEYALLEY THEATRETHEATRE Parking GaragesGarages 966966 SPACESSPACES nearbynearby 105105 SPACES SPACES

PP PP TheaterTheater DistirctDistirct Parking EntryEntry

HOBBY CENTER 800 SPACES P P P Parking Directional Sign 900900 SPACES SPACES Pedestrian P P Access from Parking GarageGarage toto BAGBY BOULEVARD THEATER DISTRICTP 3669 SPACES JonesJones PlazaPlaza 563 SPACESSP P ACES Pedestrian Access to street 293293 SPACESSPACES

OPPORTUNITIES

District-wide, multimodal wayfinding system and parking memory devices that reinforce Theater District brand

Real-time technology to guide drivers to available parking and guide people to their desired destination

Leverage new light rail line to improve community access

Distribute flow of vehicles arriving through pre- and post-show activities to reduce parking congestion

Provide additional pedestrian paths, smaller block sizes (west of Smith Street) and active streetscapes (lighting, interactive art) to encourage walking

Transform Bagby Street into a pedestrian oriented boulevard to improve connectivity between the Civic District, Post Office site, Hobby Center, Tranquillity Park, and the Bayou

Consolidate valet parking and remove excess driveways to venues such as the Hobby Center

Create new Theater District-branded wayfinding system for pedestrians and vehicles, both above ground and within the parking and tunnel system

Urban design strategies to make streets and sidewalks more inviting for people

19 02 - BACKGROUND AND PRINCIPLES

STREET LIFE AND WALKABILITY

Existing Condition: Street life lacking at Bayou Place under-crossing along Bagby Street

PRINCIPLE CHALLENGES Streets make up the majority of public space and could be safe, active and Lack of pedestrian activity on sidewalks and in public plazas at all times inviting places to spend time or just pass Perception that residents and visitors will not be willing to spend time on streets or in plazas at any through. Wide sidewalks, shading and time of year due to Houston’s climate landscaping, wayfinding and buildings whose activities open up and spill out Infrequent programming of activities in Jones Plaza and Fish Plaza onto the sidewalks will encourage street Wide streets that prioritize vehicle traffic at the expense of pedestrian comfort, mobility, and an life and create a more walkable and environment that encourages walking. Several streets are not busy during most times of day, but memorable experience in the Theater become congested during Theater District performances and events. District. The Downtown Aquarium is a major pedestrian draw but sidewalks along Bagby Street are very narrow and feel dangerous when crossing the Bayou.

Extensive surface parking lots and inactive street frontages limit potential for street life

Underground tunnels discourage pedestrian activity at street level

Fish Plaza feels uninviting and obscures the ceremonial entrance of the Wortham Center

20 Houston Theater District Master Plan CHAPTER 02

STREET LIFE

TheaterTheater DistrictDistrict Boundary

SESQUICENTENNIALSESQUICENTENNIAL Bagby Boulevard Sidewalk PARKPARK Extension

Potential SidewalkSidewalk Extension

TheaterTheater DistrictDistrict Sidewalk Extension TheaterTheater DistrictDistrict TrafficTraffic CalmingCalming

FISH PLAZA Signalized IntersectionIntersection

BAGBY BOULEVARD Signalized Crossing Pedestrian RouteRoute Covered Pedestri-- anan RouteRoute JONESJONES CENTERCENTER STAGESTAGE PLAZA Shared StreetStreet Existing Pedestrian BridgeBridge

TRANQUILLITY Proposed Pedestrian BridgeBridge PARK Buffalo Bayou TrailTrail Pedestrian Access from Parking GarageGarage toto JonesJones PlazaPlaza Pedestrian Access to street

OPPORTUNITIES

Regular programming of public spaces such as monthly cultural markets or festivals

Temporary street closures for festivals

Encourage major events to be located in the Theater District such as Houston Fashion Week

Widen sidewalks and create pedestrian oriented streets using landscaping, street furniture, lighting and wayfinding

Upgrade crosswalks and add mid-block crossings

Set up a visitor information kiosk to orient visitors and make them aware of what is going on in the district

Use lighting and wayfinding to improve pedestrian access to parking garages and perception of safety

Create an interactive, rotating public art programming

More restaurants, cafes and bars will draw in the downtown business crowd as well as pre-show performing arts patrons

Reestablish Fish Plaza as the grand entrance to the Wortham Center - drop-off could occur along Smith Street

Create a pedestrian spine connecting Tranquillity Park to Little Tranquillity, Fish Plaza, and Sesquicentennial Park 21 02 - BACKGROUND AND PRINCIPLES

BUILT FORM AND ACTIVATION

Existing Condition: Inactive Bayou Place facade along Capitol Street

PRINCIPLE CHALLENGES Introduce pedestrian oriented buildings and public spaces that are Monumental venues create a scale inconsistent with a walkable environment open and inviting. Lack of transparency and active uses at the ground floor of most buildings

Bayou Place is seen as a barrier to connectivity, especially for the Hobby Center

Numerous parking garage entrances and valet driveways create a disjointed street wall that is uninviting for pedestrians

Surface parking lots are an inefficient use of downtown space

Jones Plaza is a public space that is elevated above street level and inward-facing, discouraging pedestrians from strolling through or stopping to sit and rest

Tranquillity Park is difficult to access from Bagby Street as it is also elevated above street level due to the parking garage that sits underneath

Need for more restaurants, shops, and other pre- and post-show attractors that encourage arts patrons to arrive early and stay late

Resident and visiting performing artists do not have access to amenities such as hotels or short term apartments, convenience stores, shopping, or gathering places to spend time before or after rehearsals and shows

Few attractions draw the downtown after-work crowd or local residents to the district

22 Houston Theater District Master Plan CHAPTER 02

BUILT FORM

TheaterTheater DistrictDistrict Boundary

New Development Opportunities

AQUARIUMAQUARIUM Waterfront Development

HOUSTONHOUSTON Bagby Boulevard WORTHAM FOR DANCE BALLETBALLETFOR CENTER CENTER DANCE THEATERTHEATER Building Access Existing Building Access Proposed Building Access FISH PLAZA Public Plaza

ALLEY THEATRETHEATRE Existing OutdoorOutdoor Activities Proposed OutdoorOutdoor Activities

HOBBY JONESJONES CENTERCENTER STAGESTAGE CENTER PLAZA Shared StreetStreet Existing JONESJONES Pedestrian BridgeBridge HALLHALL Proposed BAGBY BOULEVARD Pedestrian BridgeBridge Pedestrian RouteRoute // TrailTrail

OPPORTUNITIES

Redesign public plazas to be more interactive, with improved access where possible, landscaping and green space, flexible amenities (tables and chairs, umbrellas for heat, etc.)

Facade treatments using lighting and other temporary installations (climbing walls, art, retail, etc.)

Allow for pop-up cafes, retail shops and galleries along inactive building frontages (Hobby Center, Jones Hall, Wortham Center, Bayou Place) or in surface parking lots and public spaces

Re-use surface parking for temporary activities or art installations

Projections on blank facades including the Center for Dance, Alley Theatre parking garage, and the Wortham Center facing the Bayou

Redevelop Bayou Place to create a higher density, mixed use development in which retail and active uses line the sidewalks rather than loading docks and parking, opening up Bagby Street

Mixed-use, high- rise residential and hotel development could provide living spaces and amenities that activate the neighborhood for residents and visitors

23 The 2025 Master Plan program for the Theater District calls for action in three distinct areas: 1. Center Stage 2. Bagby Boulevard 3. Livable Streets Projects in these areas are complementary and can be layered in over time to realize the vision and identity for the district.

“The Dancer” a public art piece by the Italian artist, Marcello Mascherini, located in front of Jones Hall

24 Houston Theater District Master Plan 0503 - MASTER PLAN FOR 2025

CENTER STAGE BAGBY BOULEVARD LIVABLE STREETS

25 03 - MASTER PLAN FOR 2025

INTRODUCTION The 2025 Master Plan lays out The 2025 Master Plan program for the Bagby Boulevard projects that could bring the vibrancy Theater District calls for action in the: Bagby Boulevard along Bagby Street and dynamism of the venues and • Short (5 years or less), and will become a pedestrian boulevard performing arts organizations to the that provides connectivity to civic, streets of the community. Active and • Long (6 - 10 years) theater and public spaces with passive forms of branding, urban These projects are complementary and impressive vistas to the Downtown design and expression will lure people can be layered over time to realize the and the Buffalo Bayou below. This will in and keep them on city streets vision and identity for the district. become a secondary activity corridor before and after performances, that complements Center Stage and throughout the day and evening. Projects are organized into three focus has the potential for office employees areas within the district. The identification of three focus areas in the Civic District to the south to venture along Bagby Street to get has helped shape the massing of Center Stage proposed development, important lunch, take an afternoon walk, or meet access routes, location of public art, Center stage will become the focal up for a drink or a meal after work and lighting, and the appearance of the point or major hub of activity. The before a show. public domain. traditional heart of the Houston Theater District is focused around Jones Plaza Livable Streets and Fish Plaza surrounded by places Livable streets are envisioned to of interest- Jones Hall, Alley Theatre, be more pedestrian-focused, and Wortham Theater and Bayou Place. designed to create a sense of While these venues attract a steady arrival and a distinct identity through patron base within their walls, the goal lighting, landscape and streetscape of the master plan will be to transfer improvements. Reestablishing the this vibrancy and density of visitors to street grid will create a more permeable the streets and public spaces of Center pedestrian network that will make Stage. walking more enjoyable.

Regeneration of Center Stage is the The redevelopment of parcels in the most critical step in creating a vibrant, area will play an important role in sustainable future for the Theater activating the Theater District. Careful District. It is envisaged that future consideration of land use, built form, development will create new areas and aesthetics will have a positive of public open space, expand the effect on the public realm. pedestrian friendly environment and focus on large opportunity sites for redevelopment.

26 Houston Theater District Master Plan CHAPTER 03

2025 MASTER PLAN

HOUSTON THEATER DISTRICT MASTERPLAN

Theater District Boundary Focus Area: Center Stage Focus Area: Bagby Boulevard Existing Built Form AQUARIUM Proposed Built Form CONGRESS STREET Proposed Cafe HOUSTON WORTHAM Open Space FOR DANCE NEW THEATER BALLET CENTER Existing Landscape MIXED USE Proposed Landscape MIXEDNEW USE Proposed Street Grid PRESTON STREET Pedestrian Trail Festival Street

NEW Branded Crosswalk MIXED USE Existing Pedestrian Bridge

NEW ALLEY PRAIRIE STREET Proposed Pedestrian Bridge THEATREHOUSTON THEATER MIXED USE

NEW DISTRICT MASTERPLAN VENUE

HOBBY CENTER Theater District Boundary JONES HOUSTON THEATER HALLFocus Area: CenterTEXAS AVENUE Stage DISTRICT MASTERPLAN Focus Area: Bagby Boulevard

RUSK STREET Existing Built Form AQUARIUM ProposedCAPITOL STREET Built Form BAGBYSTREET LOUISIANA STREET Theater DistrictCONGRESS Boundary STREET Proposed Cafe HOUSTON

HOUSTONWORTHAM THEATER Focus Area:WALKER STREETCenter Stage MILAM STREETOpen Space FOR DANCE NEW THEATER BALLET CENTER DISTRICT MASTERPLAN Focus Area: Bagby Boulevard Existing Landscape MIXED USE Existing Built Form Proposed Landscape SMITH STREET AQUARIUM MIXEDNEW USE Proposed Built Form Proposed Street Grid PRESTON STREET Theater DistrictCONGRESS Boundary STREET Proposed Cafe Pedestrian Trail HOUSTON WORTHAM Focus Area: Center Stage Open Space Festival Street FOR DANCE NEW NEW THEATER BALLET CENTER Focus Area: Bagby Boulevard Existing Landscape Branded Crosswalk MIXED USE MIXED USE Existing Built Form Proposed Landscape Existing Pedestrian Bridge AQUARIUM NEW MIXEDNEW USE Proposed BuiltALLEY Form PRAIRIE STREETProposed Street Grid Proposed Pedestrian Bridge PRESTON STREETTHEATRE MIXED USE CONGRESS STREET Proposed Cafe Pedestrian Trail HOUSTON NEW VENUE WORTHAM Open Space Festival Street FOR DANCE NEW NEW THEATER BALLET CENTER 27 Existing Landscape Branded Crosswalk MIXED USE MIXED USE Proposed Landscape Existing Pedestrian Bridge HOBBY NEW MIXEDNEW USE CENTER ALLEY PRAIRIE STREETProposed Street Grid Proposed Pedestrian Bridge PRESTON STREETTHEATRE MIXED USE Pedestrian Trail NEW VENUE Festival Street JONES TEXAS AVENUE NEW HALL Branded Crosswalk MIXED USE Existing Pedestrian Bridge HOBBY NEW CENTER ALLEY PRAIRIE STREET Proposed Pedestrian Bridge THEATRE MIXED USE RUSK STREET

NEW VENUE JONES CAPITOL STREET BAGBYSTREET TEXAS AVENUE HALL LOUISIANA STREET

HOBBY CENTER WALKER STREET MILAM STREET RUSK STREET

JONES CAPITOL STREET BAGBYSTREET TEXAS AVENUE HALL LOUISIANA STREET SMITH STREET

WALKER STREET MILAM STREET RUSK STREET

CAPITOL STREET BAGBYSTREET LOUISIANA STREET SMITH STREET

WALKER STREET MILAM STREET

SMITH STREET 03 - MASTER PLAN FOR 2025

View corridor

EXISTING CONDITION

New view corridor from Jones Plaza, the place to see and be seen. The proposed design encourages visual permeability to the surrounding iconic performance theater buildings.

28 Houston Theater District Master Plan CHAPTER 03 CENTER STAGE

29 03 - MASTER PLAN FOR 2025

OVERVIEW As shown in the rendering on the previous page, a redeveloped Jones

Plaza will serve as the central focus THEATER DISTRICT BOUNDARY of the Theater District. Several additional projects in Center Stage will complement this big move.

CONGRESS STREET

WORTHAM THEATER

PRESTON STREET A4

A3

A7 ALLEY PRAIRIE STREET A6 THEATRE A5 A8

A9

A1

A2 JONES A1 Jones Plaza Redesign HALL TEXAS AVENUE

A2 Jones Plaza Cafe

A3 Fish Plaza Redesign RUSK STREET CAPITOL STREET LOUISIANA STREET A4 Fish Plaza Cafe

MILAM STREET A5 Festival Streets WALKER STREET

A6 Shared Street

SMITH STREET A7 Alley Theatre Lighting Installation

A8 Bayou Place (3)

A9 Interactive Art Installation

Center Stage will become the focal art installations, festivals, cafes, seating point for activity within the Theater and plenty of landscaping and shade District- the place to see and be seen. to allow for year-round use. At night, At the heart of this activity will be Jones these spaces will be well lit and inviting, Plaza and Fish Plaza, well-programmed and can be transformed into outdoor spaces that anchor the district and performance spaces, encouraging open up to the streets and sidewalks, patrons to arrive early to explore before creating strong visual connections to a show, and stay late to enjoy the Jones Hall, Alley Theatre, Wortham district’s energy. As will be described Center and a redeveloped Bayou Place later (page 54), building facades will with a new performance venue. By day, be transformed by dynamic, feature these public spaces will be activated facade lighting, creating a sense of with both temporary and permanent place and identity for the district.

30 Houston Theater District Master Plan CHAPTER 03

CENTER STAGE: FISH PLAZA

Fish Plaza will reinstate the grandeur of the Wortham Center and serve as a gateway to the Buffalo Bayou

FISH PLAZA REDESIGN

To make the grand formal space in will be an active gateway between along the pedestrian paths leading front of Wortham Center more inviting the upper street level and the bayou from a new drop-off area on Smith and usable, the number of large, tightly below. The mature existing trees that Street to the front door of the Wortham spaced existing Live Oak trees along dominate the bank of the bayou will be Center. The fountain will provide an its edges will be considerably reduced. reduced allowing greater visual access enticing attraction of sight and sound This will open up views to not only the to a great natural asset. There is the to the plaza. plaza and Wortham Center but also the potential for vehicle access in the plaza banks of the Buffalo Bayou beyond. to allow for temporary festivals and Pedestrian friendly gravel paving and deliveries to the cafe. ample seating will be provided under the remaining trees. A drop-off area is recommended along Smith Street adjacent to the Wortham A cafe is located at the edge of the Center to encourage use of the plaza. plaza near the bank of the bayou and A dramatic fountain will be situated

31 03 - MASTER PLAN FOR 2025

CENTER STAGE: JONES PLAZA

Rendering of Jones Plaza during day showing the potential of the plaza to become a hub of activity, and to visually and physically reconnect the surrounding Theater District venues

JONES PLAZA REDESIGN

Jones Plaza during day will provide Shade trees, lawns and planting beds A new, glass pavilion cafe anchors the space for lawns, shaded seating, a will soften and cool the plaza for corner of the plaza and is anticipated cafe and iconic water feature. Wide pedestrian comfort. to generate the most sustained activity stairways and gradual slopes open the throughout the week. The cafe could plaza up, to be visible from the edges The large, interactive in-ground spray have a modern, transparent aesthetic as well as out from the center. water feature at the lower plaza level with an intricate light construction roof will be programmed to create a range that overhangs to provide shaded All four edges provide various means of of animated water effects that can be outdoor seating space. The distinctive moving through the plaza via at-grade adjusted down for children’s water play structure will provide a gateway walkways, stairs, ramps and sloped as well as scaled up to show dramatic moment for people arriving to Center lawns making the space physically effects at night with choreographed Stage via Louisiana Street and Capitol and visibly accessible. Several spaces lights and music. The water feature Street. This location is ideal for a local, throughout the plaza will allow for a can be shut down partially or entirely to iconic chef to create a restaurant variety of flexible, informal uses as create flexible performance space for experience that will be a major visitor well as larger programmed events. other events. draw to the district.

32 Houston Theater District Master Plan CHAPTER 03

Rendering of Jones Plaza at night, filled with light, outdoor performances, cafe patrons, food truck vendors, and visitors enjoying an evening outside

At night Jones Plaza will be well lit seating could be added to the lawns public art can be a short term project, with unique, Theater District lighting on either side. and temporary lighting-art pieces features that could be modified would encourage social interaction for for small temporary performances Pedestrian entrances to the historic, seasonal or civic events. throughout the plaza. As shown above underground parking will be well lit to performances could take place in the improve the feeling of safety at night. lawn space by bringing in temporary The cafe, open late, could support equipment supported by electrical post-performance crowds. The utility hookups for sound and light illumination of public art after dark, in systems. A secondary performance Jones Plaza and throughout the district location could be in the fountain area can enhance the art itself, can be a with the fountains turned off. Built-in form of ‘light art’ or can simply improve seating is found using the stairs leading the evening experience of those up to the center of the plaza. Additional strolling in and around the downtown district. The lighting of permanent

33 03 - MASTER PLAN FOR 2025

CENTER STAGE: BAYOU PLACE REDEVELOPMENT

3

2 1

Massing for Bayou Place Redevelopment shows the potential for district-wide transformation

BAYOU PLACE REDEVELOPMENT: BUILDING 3

The redevelopment of Bayou Place Building 3 will become a major feature for pedestrians, with vehicle access proposes breaking the site into three of Center Stage, and could serve as for deliveries allowed during off-peak city-scaled blocks that are in line with a new performance venue or other times. It could be covered and climate the scale of the rest of the downtown major visitor attraction, with visible controlled for year-round use. grid and would improve pedestrian connections and proximity to Jones permeability and connectivity Hall and the Wortham Center, as throughout the Theater District. The well as to Jones Plaza (Buildings 1 forms of the three new structures could and 2 are described in next section be designed in a way that engages as they are a part of the new Bagby with the urban realm and encourages Boulevard). In addition to the venue, street life and activity. Existing retail active retail could open up onto Smith and entertainment uses will be able to Street and Texas Avenue. be relocated into newer spaces, built with these uses in mind, and will be A new shared street between Building outward-facing to attract new visitors 3 and Building 2 will reinstate the and activate the streets and sidewalks. street grid and will allow activities from Street-level entrances will be easily both to safely spill out onto the streets accessible by transit and the new light rather than being contained indoors. Current Bayou Place massing, spanning over Bagby rail line along Capitol Street. The primary use of this street will be Street towards the Buffalo Bayou

34 Houston Theater District Master Plan CHAPTER 03

CENTER STAGE: PROJECT SUMMARY

A1 A2 A3 Whole Foods plaza in Austin, Texas, adjacent to a The Eleanor and Wilson Greatbatch Pavilion is an Fountains located in the public spaces of the cafe and using unique shade structures, seating and example of an elegant structure within a landscaped Montreal Theater District activate and add a sense water features to activate the space. setting. of playfulness

JONES PLAZA JONES PLAZA FISH PLAZA REDESIGN CAFE REDESIGN

What is it? What is it? What is it? • Iconic water feature • Glass pavilion cafe to replace • Landscaping- reduce tree canopy, • New landscaping and unique existing plaza structures, could seat new lawn space, gravel paving surface paving 55-75 patrons areas, multiple levels of space • Redeveloped edges- stairs, ramps • Indoor and outdoor seating • Street furniture and lawns for improved access accommodation • Iconic water feature • Lighting elements • Concept design includes 2,665 SF • Park lighting • Iconic media wall or interactive art cafe with 500 SF for kitchen and • Smith Street drop-off piece support spaces • Potential to close the parking tunnel • Flexible street furniture (tables, Where will it go? or create a new exit into Fish Plaza chairs, umbrellas for shade) Southeast corner of Jones Plaza, Where will it go? • Temporary performance spaces across from Jones Hall. Renovating the existing Fish Plaza in Where will it go? front of the Wortham Center. Renovating the existing Jones Plaza. Why is it important? A cafe in Jones Plaza will provide Why is it important? Why is it important? activity throughout the day and a A redesign of Fish Plaza will reinstate This is a catalyst project for the district before- and after-show destination for the grand entrance of the Wortham and will create the new heart of activity Jones Hall, the Wortham Center and Center and a new transitional gateway and interaction in Center Stage. Alley Theatre. to the Buffalo Bayou.

35 03 - MASTER PLAN FOR 2025

CENTER STAGE: PROJECT SUMMARY

A4 A5 A6 Bars and restaurants in Austin, Texas, spill out on to Rue Sainte Cathrine, an example of a main street Winthrop Avenue; an example of a functioning the streets and activate the public realm that converts host various festivals within the shared street located in the Harvard University Montreal Theater District campus

FISH PLAZA FESTIVAL NEW SHARED CAFE STREETS STREET

What is it? What is it? What is it? • Glass pavilion cafe, similar in style • Street narrowing (see Livable • New shared street (no curbs) with to Jones Plaza cafe but smaller, Streets) unique pavers (similar to Festival seating 30 – 45 patrons indoors. • New pavement treatment Streets) • Large bar space for pre- and • Eliminate curbs • 25-foot right of way (building-to- post-show drinks • Bollards to delineate pedestrian and building) • Remove existing brick gazebo vehicle spaces • Requires redevelopment of existing structure in the fountain to create • Signage to indicate shared street Bayou Place cafe seating area overlooking the • Infrastructure for electrical and • Lighting Buffalo Bayou water hookups for events • Shade structures • Cafe to include kitchen, dining and Where will it go? Where will it go? support spaces • Texas Avenue between Bagby Between proposed Bayou Place Where will it go? Street and Milam Street buildings 2 and 3, linking Capitol Street Western edge of Fish Plaza in front of • Smith Street between Capitol Street to Texas Avenue between Bagby Street the Wortham Theater. and Prairie Street and Smith Street. • Louisiana Street between Capitol Why is it important? Street and Prairie Street Why is it important? The cafe will serve Wortham Center Why is it important? A new shared street will improve patrons and provide seating that pedestrian permeability and movement overlooks the Bayou. Festival streets prioritize pedestrian in the district. activity and facilitate outdoor events.

36 Houston Theater District Master Plan CHAPTER 03

A7 A8 A9 Munich, Germany temporary facade lighting instal- The Busan Cinema Center, South Korea. Designed A dynamic media wall in Beijing China creates an lation creates interest as pedestrians circulate the by Coop Himmelb(l)au featuring an iconic outdoor iconic display that draws visitors and enhances the open spaces cinema public space. nighttime environment in a memorable way

ALLEY THEATRE BAYOU PLACE INTERACTIVE ART LIGHT INSTALLATION REDEVELOPMENT: BUILDING 3 / MEDIA WALL

What is it? What is it? What is it? Design competition to commission • Architect/ design competition • Schematic design of media wall interactive lighting installation along to design iconic building to structure the Smith Street facade. One concept accommodate a new venue and • Develop media wall content with uses sensors to capture people’s retail/restaurant space lighting display artist movement and project their shadows • New block size ~300 FT x 300 FT Where will it go? onto the Alley Theatre wall, which • Building height ~5 - 6 stories would be covered with a large mesh • Permeable structure with on-street Along the retaining wall within the screen to display the projects or other entrances to activate the street redeveloped Jones Plaza installations. • Wide sidewalks with shade, Why is it important? landscaping, lighting Where will it go? • Demolition of existing Bayou Place An interactive art piece in Jones Plaza will be a draw to the district. When Along the facade of the Alley Theatre Where will it go? adjacent to Smith Street. it is not programmed as public art The block adjacent to Jones Plaza by local artists, it can be used as an Why is it important? along Smith Street. information wall to showcase current and upcoming performances in the Short term activation of a large, blank Why is it important? facade to create a feeling of safety and Theater District. interest for pedestrians at night. Provides a needed new venue, a cohesive, activated Center Stage, and iconic identity piece for the Theater District. Major investment opportunity.

37 03 - MASTER PLAN FOR 2025

View corridor

EXISTING CONDITION

The grand Bagby Boulevard provides new connections throughout the district. This view taken from the proposed Bagby Boulevard; the new development where the current Bayou Place stands and the Hobby Center in the distance.

38 Houston Theater District Master Plan CHAPTER 03 BAGBY BOULEVARD

39 03 - MASTER PLAN FOR 2025

OVERVIEW The vision for Bagby Street to be a boulevard that links the Civic Center District to the Theater District has THEATER DISTRICT BOUNDARY been identified in the Downtown Plan (2004). Identifying it as a pedestrian- oriented space will also serve to B1 link the exiting Hobby Center and AQUARIUM CONGRESS STREET Houston Aquarium to the rest of the district. Bayou Place at present visually blocks this connection. The PRESTON STREET B6 vision is to reestablish the prominence B1

B5 of this important connection. B2 PRAIRIE STREET

B4

HOBBY CENTER

B1 B3

TEXAS AVENUE

B7

RUSK STREET

B1 Bagby Street CAPITOL STREET LOUISIANA STREET Hanging Oak B2 MILAM STREET Lighting Installation WALKER STREET

B3 Little Tranquillity Park

SMITH STREET B4 Little Tranquillity Cafe

B5 Bayou Place (2) Bayou Place (1) B6

B7 Tranquillity Park* *From 2012 master plan for Tranquillity Park commissioned by Houston Parks & Recreation Department

Bagby Street has the potential to the corridor, including the Aquarium serve as the pedestrian spine for the Ferris Wheel and City Hall, both of Theater District, connecting the Hobby which are brightly lit features at night. Center, Tranquillity Park, the Downtown As one of the few streets that does not Aquarium, and new cafes and shops transition into a highway access ramp, with the redevelopment of Bayou it currently accommodates very low Place and Little Tranquillity Park. It vehicle volumes and can be redesigned also serves as a key link between the to widen sidewalks for pedestrian Civic District to the south and potential safety and enjoyment without future development to the north. significant impact on vehicle traffic. Along the length of the corridor there Bagby Street, the new pedestrian are ample vistas onto the Downtown boulevard for Downtown Houston, will skyline and the Buffalo Bayou below. serve as a gateway into the Theater Several landmarks also stand out along District and become a place to stroll, linger and enjoy.

40 Houston Theater District Master Plan CHAPTER 03

BAGBY BOULEVARD: BAYOU PLACE REDEVELOPMENT

2 I

A vision for the redevelopment of Bayou Place; the proposed building envelopes creates a vista along Bagby Street with visual and physical connectivity to the Hobby Center and downtown Civic Center District.

BAYOU PLACE REDEVELOPMENT: BUILDING 1 AND BUILDING 2

This redevelopment will introduce Building 1 could be the tallest along the Bagby Street corridor. new, iconic buildings into the Theater structure, and could accommodate a However, as this new development District where people can live, work, high-rise, mixed use residential tower will be located in close proximity to and play. It removes the underpass with commercial uses and smaller the new light rail stations on Capitol created by the existing Bayou Place spaces for performing arts uses on Street and Rusk Street, there is an building, opening up the street and the first 3-5 floors, prioritizing active opportunity to limit the amount of new removing both physical and visual retail on the ground floor. Given its vehicle parking needed. barriers to connectivity. Increasing in prime location along the edge of the height towards the Bayou, the two new Buffalo Bayou, there is an opportunity Building 2 would be a mid-rise building towers on either side of Bagby Street for ground floor uses that extend that could accommodate the relocation are set back to maximize pedestrian outdoors, providing outdoor amenities of the existing Sundance Cinema, activity and comfort while creating and large transparent facades that restaurants, and offices currently a well-defined urban corridor. The overlook the Bayou. As such, this located within Bayou Place within the set back provides space for wide could be a potential alternative location first 3 floors of the building. The upper sidewalks, outdoor cafes and gathering for a new major performing arts venue. floors could accommodate either office spaces, landscaping and shade, Depending on the final mix of uses or hotel space geared towards Theater seating, lighting and other amenities. in this building, underground parking District visitors. There will be an active retail frontage may need to be provided, with access along Bagby Street, Capitol Street and from Capitol Street in order to minimize Texas Avenue. disruption to the pedestrian experience

41 03 - MASTER PLAN FOR 2025

BAGBY BOULEVARD: BAGBY STREET

A cross section of the proposed Bagby Street; featuring widened pedestrian spaces. Curb extensions, improved crossings, and a median encourages walkability

BAGBY STREET

With the addition of new development for additional sidewalk space and a Roadway Level of Service together with existing destinations, the landscaped median to accommodate Level of Service (LOS) is the qualitative pedestrian experience along the Bagby new tree plantings, lighting and street rating that captures overall operating Street corridor must be safe, attractive, furniture, and space for pedestrians conditions for automobile traffic such well-lit, and comfortable at all times. to shop, dine, and walk to their as speed, delay and traffic flow. LOS As such, there is a need to reconfigure entertainment destinations along the is used in this document to draw the street to accommodate higher corridor. New gateway features will comparisons to the existing conditions pedestrian volumes, creating a better be added, including branded Theater and proposed street projects. The balance of pedestrians and vehicles. District wayfinding signs, widened rating system has six levels ranging and branded crosswalks, and lighting from A to F, with LOS A representing Bagby Street is currently a two-way installations. The large hanging oak the best vehicle operating condition roadway with a total right-of-way width tree on the corner of Capitol Street (free-flow) and LOS F the worst. Each of about 90 feet. There are two or and Bagby Street could become a level of service represents a range of three lanes of traffic in each direction landmark feature at night with a unique operating conditions and the driver’s depending on the block and time of lighting treatment. perception of those conditions. For day, and sidewalk widths range from urban streets, LOS D or higher is less than 6 feet to over 10 feet. One considered an acceptable service or more travel lanes will be removed

42 Houston Theater District Master Plan CHAPTER 03

Walker to Rusk Rusk to Capitol Capitol to Texas Texas to Prairie Prairie to Franklin - 2 lanes in each direction - 2 lanes in each direction - 2 lanes in each direction - 1 lane in each direction - 1 lane in each direction - landscaped median - landscaped median - landscaped median plus center turning lane plus center turning lane - off-peak parking - off-peak parking - off-peak parking - landscaped median - off-peak parking - widened sidewalks - widened sidewalks - mid-block crossing - off-peak parking - widened sidewalks - widened sidewalks - widened sidewalks

Summary of street realignment at each block along Bagby Street

level, as some congestion indicates future conditions of the street would underused by vehicles and has excess demand for an area and slows vehicles need to be done to confirm traffic capacity. As such, the street can be to speeds that are more favorable to demand, initial Level of Service (LOS) redesigned to improve the pedestrian pedestrian-friendly environments. measurements as shown below experience. indicate that Bagby Street is currently While a full traffic study on the

Current Operation (Peak Hour) Proposed Operation (Peak Hour) Bagby Street Peak Hour Traffic Travel Lanes Traffic Level of Travel Lanes Traffic Per Level of North of… (vehicles/hr)* (NB + SB) Per Lane service (NB + SB) Lane service Preston 408 4 102 A / B 2 (+ turn lane) 224 A / B Prairie 609 4 152 A / B 2 (+ turn lane) 335 A / B Texas 698 6 116 A / B 2 (+ turn lane) 384 A / B Capitol 887 6 148 A / B 4 488 A / B Rusk 721 6 120 A / B 4 396 A / B Walker 917 5 183 A / B 4 504 A / B * Source: City of Houston Public Works GIS- Average Daily Traffic Counts. Peak hour traffic volumes assume 9% of daily traffic occurs during the peak hour as recommended by the 2000 Highway Capacity Manual (Transportation Research Board, Exhibit 8-9)

43 03 - MASTER PLAN FOR 2025

BAGBY BOULEVARD: LITTLE TRANQUILLITY

The new cafe pavilion will have a modern, transparent, and light construction aesthetic comprised of a glass box with an intricate light construction roof that overhangs to provide for shaded outdoor seating.

LITTLE TRANQUILLITY PARK REDESIGN

Little Tranquillity Park is located across a shade structure allowing visitors to the street from the Hobby Center enjoy the garden. It will provide a place and just south of the Bayou Place for audiences from the Hobby Center redevelopment on the east side of to gather before and after shows, Bagby Street. To activate this space, for Theater District and Civic District a new glass pavilion is proposed in employees to enjoy a morning coffee Little Tranquillity Park using a similar or after-work drink, and for residents architectural language to the new of the Bayou Center redevelopment to pavilions in Jones Plaza and Fish Plaza. enjoy outdoor space in close proximity The concept shown above includes a to their home. Surrounded by trees, 1,428 SF cafe for 25-40 patrons. with a backdrop of the downtown skyline, this park will provide an The new cafe will be integrated into urban oasis for visitors, residents and a newly designed landscape with employees alike. tiered seating, open lawn space, and

44 Houston Theater District Master Plan CHAPTER 03

BAGBY BOULEVARD: TRANQUILLITY PARK

White Oak Studio rendering from the 2012 master plan for Tranquillity Park. This view looking northeast from Walker Street shows flexible open spaces, a pavillion cafe with shaded outdoor terraces, and water features.

TRANQUILLITY PARK REDESIGN (BY WHITE OAK STUDIO)

A 2012 master plan for Tranquillity Park including the iconic water towers are located throughout the park, reinvents this downtown park as a re-purposed to anchor a lively central providing for comfortable, safe use by dynamic urban destination that is safe plaza. Two major open spaces flank downtown workers and park visitors. and inviting to pedestrians and transit the central plaza, accommodating New glass-enclosed stairwell pavilions riders. The plan was commissioned unstructured use on a daily basis will give safe, visible connections by Houston Parks & Recreation and a place for major festival venues. from the parking garage below. Department and prepared by a team Cross-axial promenade walks align Park reconstruction will accompany led by White Oak Studio Landscape with key pedestrian movement on the evaluation and repairs to the roof of the Architecture. As envisioned, Tranquillity surrounding streets, allowing the park basement parking garage. Park will be a civic open space that to integrate with downtown circulation engages with surrounding streets and patterns. At the corner of Rusk and spaces to encourage daily use as Smith Street, the new MetroRail station well as public events. The park will will be anchored by a pavilion café celebrate the 1968 USA moon landing and shaded outdoor dining terrace. with art and interpretive features, Smaller scale, tree-shaded spaces

45 03 - MASTER PLAN FOR 2025

BAGBY BOULEVARD: PROJECT SUMMARY

B1 B2 & In Houston’s Midtown area, Bagby Street is a recent A novel landmark, the hanging oak tree is a MarketB3 Square, nearby in downtown Houston4 is improved street scape design promoting walkability. reminder of longevity and nature in an urban setting an example of an climate controlled outdoor public space with cafe and seating

BAGBY HANGING OAK LITTLE TRANQUILLITY PARK STREET LIGHTING INSTALLATION AND CAFE

What is it? What is it? What is it? • Realign Bagby Boulevard, widening Light installation- Suspend starlighting • Redesigned landscape with tiered sidewalks from Franklin Street to in the leaves of the hanging oak tree seating and open lawn space Walker Street with unique pavers and potentially up-lighting the boughs • Shade structure on the eastern • Theater District branded high of the tree. edge of the park visibility crosswalks • New pedestrian paths and lighting • Signalized mid-block crossing Where will it go? to improve connectivity and safety • New iconic lighting The hanging oak tree is located on • Glass pavilion cafe with seating, • Landscaping along widened Bagby Street at the corner of Capitol kitchen and support space sidewalks and median Street, adjacent to the existing Bayou Where will it go? • Street furniture Place building. • Upgrade fences for pedestrian Little Tranquillity Park, bounded by safety especially at Memorial Drive Why is it important? Bagby Street to the west, Capitol Street to the north and Rusk Street to Enhances an existing iconic landmark. Where will it go? the south. Adjacent to the new light rail line and Bagby Street from Walker Street to the Bayou Place redevelopment, it Why is it important? Franklin Street. will be a prominent lighting feature Creates an urban oasis, maximizing Why is it important? within the district and will complement the existing lighting displays of the park location with views of Houston Improves pedestrian safety. Connects Downtown Aquarium Ferris Wheel skyline within a shaded, landscaped the Civic Center District, Hobby Center, and City Hall facade lighting along setting. Cafe activates the park and will Downtown Aquarium and potential new Bagby Street. be a draw for the -pre and post-show high rise development. crowd from the Hobby Center

46 Houston Theater District Master Plan CHAPTER 03

BAGBY BOULEVARD: PROJECT SUMMARY

& B5 B6 B7 B3 4 The residential towers of Time Warner Center, New The innovative facade of One Shelley Street, a Cafes surround a shady open space within the City York. It houses the Jazz at the Lincoln Center, commercial building in downtown Sydney. Centre neighborhood in Houston various performance venues and high-end retail.

BAYOU PLACE BAYOU PLACE TRANQUILLITY PARK- DESIGN REDEVELOPMENT: REDEVELOPMENT: BY WHITE OAK STUDIO BUILDING 1 BUILDING 2 What is it? What is it? What is it? • Redevelopment of Bayou Place and • Redevelopment of Bayou Place • 2012 master plan for Tranquillity relocation of existing tenants • Mid-rise building that can Park commissioned by Houston • High-rise mixed use residential accommodate Sundance Cinema, Parks & Recreation Department • Commercial uses and potential for restaurants and offices or hotel on • Redesigned park space with smaller spaces for performing arts the upper floors pavilion cafe and shaded outdoor use on the first 3 - 5 floors with • Prioritize active retail/restaurants on dining terrace residential above ground floor • Flexible, green open space • Prioritize active retail on ground floor • Landscape and streetscape • Shaded outdoor space • Landscape and streetscape amenities along Bagby Street as Where will it go? amenities along Bagby Street as well as the new shared street well as along the Buffalo Bayou Tranquillity Park, bounded by Bagby Where will it go? Street and Smith Street to the east Where will it go? East of Bagby Street between and west, and Rusk Street and Walker West of Bagby Street between Memorial Drive and Capitol Street. Street to the north and south. Memorial Drive and Capitol Street. Why is it important? Why is it important? Why is it important? The Bayou Place redevelopment is a Public space for recreation will be an Adds much-needed residential space major investment opportunity for office increasingly important amenity with in a prime location near the Bayou, and and hotel developers. Existing tenants the introduction of new development creates opportunity for new retail and in Bayou Place have the opportunity downtown, especially for residential, restaurant amenities that will activate to relocate into a modern building with office and hotel. Bagby Street and the district. new features and amenities.

47 03 - MASTER PLAN FOR 2025

View corridor

EXISTING CONDITION

The branded gateway to the Theater District; Smith Street features widened sidewalks, activated uses, landscaping, and lighting installation from the Houston Ballet Center for Dance overpass.

48 Houston Theater District Master Plan CHAPTER 03 LIVABLE STREETS

49 03 - MASTER PLAN FOR 2025

OVERVIEW Streets and plazas are what defines the public space environment, and as such will communicate an experience THEATER DISTRICT BOUNDARY of excitement and discovery that visitors will begin to associate with C2 the Theater District.

C5

C10 C5 With new development as well as CONGRESS STREET temporary and permanent activities C5

C5 proposed throughout the district, C1 C5 the streets will provide the backbone C7 PRESTON STREET C5 for activity and could prioritize C3 C8 C5 pedestrians safety and comfort C5 C4 PRAIRIE STREET while providing sufficient space for C5 vehicles. C5 C5 B3C1 Smith Street

C5 Bridge Removal B3C2 C5 C5 TEXAS AVENUE

C5 B3C3 Louisiana Street

C5 B1C4 Texas Avenue RUSK STREET C5

CAPITOL STREET C5 Branded Crossings LOUISIANA STREET

DISTRICT WIDEB4 Streetscape Plan MILAM STREET WALKER STREET

C7 Wortham Overpass B2 Lighting Installation

SMITH STREET C8B2 Light Walk

DISTRICT WIDE Lighting Plan B5 C10B1 New Pedestrian Bridge B6

Several streets are proposed to be that you have arrived in the district. redesigned and narrowed to create New lighting for streets, facades, wider sidewalks and space for plazas and at the many stairways into landscaping and streetscaping, as the underground parking and tunnels well as dedicated on-street parking will help create a safe and dynamic at all hours. The Smith Street bridge, nighttime environment. Finally, a new, currently redundant and underused iconic pedestrian crossing over the by vehicles, is proposed for removal Buffalo Bayou near the redesigned to simplify the street network, creating Fish Plaza will begin to extend the a distinct Smith Street gateway and pedestrian network and encourage the daylighting the Buffalo Bayou below. use of Fish Plaza as a gateway to the Intersection crosswalks will be branded Bayou. for high visibility and to clearly indicate

50 Houston Theater District Master Plan CHAPTER 03

LIVABLE STREETS: PEDESTRIAN PRIORITY

Curb extensions

Parking

CONGRESS STREET Widened sidewalk MEMORIAL DRIVE Traffic calming measures

PRESTON STREET

PRAIRIE STREET

TEXAS AVENUE The pedestrian network could be improved by improving access RUSK STREET to, and crossings over, the Buffalo Bayou. The Congress CAPITOL STREET Avenue bridge could become a BAGBY STREET LOUISIANA STREET pedestrian and cyclist-only bridge in the short term, creating a WALKER STREET MILAM STREET unique public space. Above: Vancouver Land Bridge

SMITH STREET PEDESTRIAN PRIORITY STREETS

Through strategic traffic calming and street furniture to foster a more Center and curb extensions along the measures, the Theater District will be walkable environment. A review of east side of the street. able to promote a walkable area for recent traffic counts* show that these 2. Texas Avenue, another major shopping, dining and entertainment. A measures would be still accommodate gateway with curb extensions on the corridor in the Theater District fueled current vehicle traffic levels, although a north side of the street (facing the Alley by pedestrian traffic enhances not only more detailed traffic analysis would be Theatre and Fish Plaza), and a widened the economic competitiveness of the needed before project implementation. sidewalk on the south side. businesses located there, but also 3. a major bus creates a vibrant, inviting space for Pedestrian Priority Streets will include: Louisiana Street, route and the front door of the Jones residents and visitors alike to enjoy. 1. Smith Street, a major gateway Hall will include curb extensions along that will include special intersection the west side of Louisiana Street. A Traffic calming measures have been treatments at Preston Street, a wider drop-off area for Jones Hall could be identified for use along three corridors, sidewalk adjacent to the Wortham in addition to landscaping, lighting considered with careful design.

* Source: City of Houston Public Works GIS- Average Daily Traffic Counts. A Level of Service analysis using a peak hour traffic volumes assumption of 9% of daily traffic was used as recommended by the 2000 Highway Capacity Manual (Transportation Research Board, Exhibit 8-9). This showed that proposed 51 traffic calming measures would still allow for a sufficient level of service on Smith Street, Texas Avenue and Louisiana Street during the peak hour. 03 - MASTER PLAN FOR 2025

LIVABLE STREETS: LANDSCAPE AND STREETSCAPE

Street Trees and plantings provide shade, color and Special Pavement using distinct colors and patterns Branded Theater District furnishings could including help with storm-water runoff permanent and flexible seating, tables and shade

THEATER DISTRICT LANDSCAPE AND STREETSCAPE

New trees and plantings, pavement Plantings the shapes and colors of the pavers. treatments and street furniture Planting will be used to define spaces The patterns will clearly designate the could create a cohesive, unique and and soften the urban environment. pedestrian zone and ensure safety. identifiable brand as well as pedestrian Floral color will be used at select comfort while enjoying the district. A locations to provide visual interest and Furnishings landscape plan could be developed, reinforce the importance of certain Clean contemporary styled furnishings leveraging the following guidelines. spaces. will have a consistent look and feel that is consistent with the overall district Trees Special Pavement brand. A variety of seating options Canopy shade trees that provide Pedestrian pavements will have distinct are encouraged to create a fun and pedestrian comfort reinforce street colors, patterns and imagery to convey creative environment. Materials will be edges and provide seasonal interest. a sense of district branding. durable and appropriate for high traffic The variety of trees could be urban use. considered as they might relate to Crosswalk paving will be demarcated particular activities of specific locations. with architectural concrete pavers. Crosswalks will be branded with distinct district patterns produced with

52 Houston Theater District Master Plan CHAPTER 03

LIVABLE STREETS: LIGHTING

Street lighting

Transit route lighting

Tree lighting Illuminates Transit stop lighting Illuminates crosswalk sidewalk Signage and traffic light Bench and handrail attachment point Park lighting lighting

Example Theater District public lighting system elements: Pedestrian light poles (left), plaza lighting (center), and staircase lighting in public spaces

LIGHTING PLAN

The Theater District is currently a trespass and reduce operating costs decorative element. The pole system nighttime district that comes alive and waste. would allow signage attachments and during performances. The approach urban furniture integration provided to nighttime design considers an District-wide Public Lighting System through a gib within the slotted pole experience where visitors start the A district wide lighting strategy includes and pre-installed additional power evening on the street, stopping for a lighting hierarchy for pedestrian, outlets. an early dinner, getting a breath of air vehicle, and open space areas that during intermission, and then strolling creates an overall set of contrasts that Pedestrian Lighting to a local restaurant or bar after emphasize different users. We envision Pole-provided illumination every the show. a newly designed Downtown Houston 50-feet throughout the district, with pole and fixture family, as well as increased brightness on pedestrian To save energy and encourage designs for street, sidewalk and area priority streets. Additional illumination to sustainability, recyclable materials in lighting fixtures. A special, “theatrical” indicate pedestrian crossings. the manufacture of luminaries can be element would be added to emphasize used, as well as techniques to improve the Theater District, for example, energy efficiency, minimize light a specific finish, beacon, or other

53 03 - MASTER PLAN FOR 2025

LIVABLE STREETS: LIGHTING

Water feature lighting in Sydney, Australia

Buchanan Street, Glasgow pedestrian street lighting Facade feature display in Beijing, China Dynamic architectural bridge lighting in Kingston, and underlighting of benches Glasgow reflects real-time traffic and tide patterns Public Spaces Parks and sidewalk spaces including Buildings and Bridges Lighting for urban furniture and trees the Buffalo Bayou riverfront could Buildings and bridges provide the will be incorporated in plazas, parks include decorative landscape lighting backdrop for the district’s public realm. and sidewalks. This lighting may take at a lower intensity than at plazas. Architecturally significant facades with the form of illuminated trees, benches Designs for a light and sound special characteristics provide a vertical and seating elements. Furniture and installation along the underpass canvas that can be transformed after landscape lighting will be cool white beneath Bayou Place along Bagby dark through architectural and feature to contrast with the surrounding warm Street is already underway as a lighting applications. Building facades white streetscape. The use of saturated temporary installation to improve the and volumes have been identified color-tones is also possible. pedestrian experience. for lighting treatments because they surround key public spaces or are Lighting systems shall allow for Plazas could be brightly accentuated within view from these spaces. and dynamic to accommodate temporary addition of event lighting on existing infrastructure such as large after-dark gathering spaces, Architectural Facade Lighting with accents marking entries to additional lighting fixing points on On major performance venue facades, underground parking and illumination poles, electric wiring for power supply the existing canopies and covered of venue facades. and programming control. drop-offs will be lit in a subtle way by reflected or grazing light to minimize unnecessary upward light

54 Houston Theater District Master Plan CHAPTER 03

LIVABLE STREETS: LIGHTING

LIGHTING PPLANL

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YSTREET SQUARE B spill. For existing architectural facade Facade Feature Displays Bridges lighting, concentrate illumination on Media walls, video, and light To create an entrance feature into the distinguished architectural elements, projections are suggested for large district we recommend illumination ensure the continuity of color blank walls to create a nighttime of the gateway bridges crossing the temperatures and conceal lighting identity and dramatic and lively public Bayou along Preston Street and Texas fi xtures from pedestrian view. Jones spaces. To attract viewers from Avenue, highlighted above. The vertical Hall is an example of successfully varied directions, and add an element columns and the underside of the integrated architectural lighting. The of surprise, these dynamic lighting bridge could be used to create rippling Alley Theatre is implementing facade features wrap around building corners refl ections which will be seen from the lighting during their current renovation. as shown above. The proximity of embankment above and alongside the The front facade of the Wortham the features in viewing distance from Buffalo Bayou. Center has an existing architectural point to point will guide people along lighting concept that can be further a self-guided walking route and attract enhanced. The glow from within Hobby potential visitors to the venues, public Center is a potential approach. spaces and the district as a whole.

55 03 - MASTER PLAN FOR 2025

LIVABLE STREETS: PROJECT SUMMARY

C1 C2 C3 Landscaping, shading and seating, wide sidewalks Removing the Congress Avenue bridge will improve Newly installed curb extensions with landscaping and an active street wall in Downtown Greenvile, SC the recreational experience at Sesquicentennial Park and widened sidewalks on Bagby Street in Houston’s Midtown neighborhood

PEDESTRIAN PRIORITY AND BRIDGE REMOVAL PEDESTRIAN PRIORITY: VEHICLE GATEWAY: CONGRESS AVENUE LOUISIANA STREET SMITH STREET What is it? What is it? What is it? • Narrow Smith Street from 5 lanes to • Close Congress Avenue bridge • Traffic calming using curb 4 lanes (3 travel lanes, 1 parking) to vehicle traffic and realign the extensions on the west side of • Widen west-side sidewalk intersection with Franklin Avenue Louisiana Street • Curb extensions on the east side • Demolish bridge to daylight the • Realign pavement markings • Realign striping and pavement Buffalo Bayou underneath • Add landscape features along curb markings on Smith Street Where will it go? extensions (small bioswales) • Add street furniture and landscaping Where will it go? • Illuminate pedestrian Ballet Center Remove the Congress Avenue bridge overpass with internal lighting that over the Buffalo Bayou between Curb edge at each intersection along glows through the perforated wall Franklin Street and Smith Street / the west side of Louisiana Street from Congress Avenue west of the Smith Walker Street to Congress Avenue. Where will it go? Street bridge. In the short term, could Smith Street from Walker Street to close the bridge to vehicles and Why is it important? Franklin Street. allow pedestrian and cyclist access Curb extensions shorten crossing only, creating a unique public space distances for pedestrians, create a Why is it important? opportunity. dedicated parking lane for vehicles Creates a major vehicle gateway at all times of day, and increase through art and light. Traffic calming to Why is it important? pedestrian space along Jones Plaza. improve pedestrian safety. Simplifies traffic movements at a major Increases feeling of safety and is a gateway that is currently difficult to traffic calming measure on a street with navigate for pedestrians. Allows for high vehicle speeds. Future traffic study daylighting of the Bayou. needed to finalize configuration.

56 Houston Theater District Master Plan CHAPTER 03

C4 C5 C6 Streets within the City Centre development in Houston’s Museum District utilize branded Bagby Street, in Houston’s Midtown area, a Houston, provide pedestrians generous footpaths crosswalks, commissioned for the Carlos Cruz-Diez successful local revitalized street that utilizes a with shade and many amenities exhibition “Color in Space and Time” palette of high quality materials.

PEDESTRIAN PRIORITY: BRANDED THEATER DISTRICT TEXAS AVENUE CROSSINGS STREETSCAPE PLAN

What is it? What is it? What is it? • Narrow Texas Avenue from 5 lanes • Crosswalk paving demarcated Using the streetscape and landscape to 4 lanes: 3 travel lanes, 1 parking, in the short term using paint or principles described, develop a detailed widened sidewalk on north side of thermoplastics, and in the long term streetscape plan to identify crosswalk the street (final concept pending with architectural concrete pavers. treatments, landscape elements and traffic study) • Crosswalks will be branded with placement, street furniture design and • Curb extensions on the south side distinct Theater District patterns location, and implementation strategy. • Realign striping and pavement and bright colors for safety, identity markings on Texas Avenue and visibility. Where will it go? • Add street furniture, landscaping Where will it go? All streets and intersections within the Theater District. Where will it go? All intersections and mid-block Texas Avenue from Bagby Street to crossings within the Theater Why is it important? Milam Street, with the potential to District boundary. A more detailed streetscape plan will extend east into downtown. Why is it important? allow for detailed consideration of Why is it important? placement, design and implementation Branded crossings are important for of new landscaping, lighting and street Curb extensions and lane narrowing pedestrian safety as well as creating a furniture using the guidelines laid out will calm traffic and create more space strong, visual Theater District identity. in this plan. A traffic analysis will need for pedestrians. Widened sidewalks to be conducted to narrow streets to create space for seating, lighting and improve pedestrian circulation. other pedestrian amenities. Serves major Theater District venues.

57 03 - MASTER PLAN FOR 2025

LIVABLE STREETS: PROJECT SUMMARY

C7 C8 C9 Potential to use real time NASA feeds to project the Colorful lighting projections within Castle Clinton, Open space within the district will be illuminated with night sky above the Wortham Center Overpass create a playful, energized environment. feature park lighting.

WORTHAM OVERPASS THEATER DISTRICT THEATER DISTRICT FEATURE FACADE DISPLAY LIGHT WALK LIGHTING PLAN

What is it? What is it? What is it? Interactive art display on the side of A luminous, self-guided, tour that Using the lighting hierarchy created the Wortham Center vehicle overpass. covers primary walking routes and in this master plan for streets, plazas, Bringing a sense of nature and leads to the bayou during the evening parks and underground tunnels, reflecting Houston’s long standing hours. This will be a color-immersive develop a detailed lighting plan to history in space travel, this large experience for after-dark visitors. study current lighting levels throughout display could use a real-time feed from Theatrical and exciting, pedestrians will the district and identify specific NASA to project the night sky. Dynamic traverse sidewalks that are lit in color, locations for targeted improvements. display can also change throughout and arrive at destinations identified This could include engaging an the year. by luminous markers. Destinations industrial designer to develop Theater will include great views of fresh and District branded lighting fixtures. Where will it go? existing facade lighting, point out Wortham Center overpass above Houston’s grand skyline, or provide a Where will it go? Preston Street at the intersection of resting place by an illuminated view. Site-wide. Smith Street. Where will it go? Why is it important? Why is it important? See potential path on Page 50. Branded Theater District lighting will Helps to minimize the impact of the be important to transform the district large Wortham Center facade such that Why is it important? visually at night and create a feeling at night it may blend in with the night Encourages walking, creates a tourist of safety for pedestrians. It can also sky (or the daytime sky during the day). destination, allows visitors to learn provide infrastructure to encourage more about the district. outdoor performances.

58 Houston Theater District Master Plan CHAPTER 03

C10 Distinctive bridges are found along the Buffalo Bayou and promote pedestrian connectivity from both sides.

NEW PEDESTRIAN BRIDGE

What is it? • New pedestrian bridge crossing the Buffalo Bayou • Bridge lighting Where will it go? Behind the Wortham Center, connecting the east and west banks of the Buffalo Bayou.

Why is it important? New connections to the Buffalo Bayou are important and facilitated by crossings from one side of the bank to the other. The new Fish Plaza and cafe will naturally lead people to the Bayou, and a pedestrian crossing at that location will encourage visitors to walk and explore.

59 Many interventions to bring activity and people into the area may not require a wholesale redevelopment of the district but rather strategic interventions with wayfinding, art and interactive experience. This allows Houston First and downtown stakeholders time to build buy in for action, fund-raise for change, and create a network of support for the actions, plans and projects that require support from other important stakeholders in the city. The Taking Action Now chapter addresses immediate needs and compliments the longer term program of the 2025 Master Plan.

Jones Hall; with its curving marble walls and a rectangular columns. Its architectural value acknowledged in 1967 with the American Institute of Architects’ Honor Award

60 Houston Theater District Master Plan 04 - TAKING ACTION NOW

PARKING AND UNDERGROUND PEDESTRIAN AND VEHICLE WAYFINDING TEMPORARY PROGRAMMING AND FESTIVALS

61 04 - TAKING ACTION NOW

THEATER DISTRICT WAYFINDING

The 2025 Master Plan recommends leveraging the existing plans for updating the Downtown Houston wayfinding system and adding additional locations as well as a design feature unique to the Theater District.

Dynamic information kiosks, like design above by Escale Numerique and JCDecaux for the City of Paris, can also serve as informal gathering spaces in the Theater District

WAYFINDING OVERVIEW

What is it? guidance to all of the Theater District’s A wayfinding system is a collection of current and potential future assets. physical and digital interventions that It is important for sign placement to help people navigate, explore and be consistent and conspicuous along enjoy spaces and places in a built each street corridor so that signs are environment. Its features can help a easily visible by their intended users district convey a unique brand (pedestrians and drivers), and provide or identity. guidance for the complete journey until a destination is reached. Where will it go? The 2025 Master Plan recommends Why is it important? leveraging the existing plans for Through improved pedestrian and updating the wayfinding system vehicular wayfinding the Theater District through the Downtown Houston could create a more enjoyable theater Wayfinding System project, adding and visitor experience in the immediate additional locations as shown on future. A clear, easily understood and pages 63 and 65. Where possible, iconic wayfinding system could provide existing sign posts can be re-used navigation to all of the major Theater with new sign faces that provide clear District attractions.

62 Houston Theater District Master Plan w CHAPTER FRANKLIN STREET 04

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TEXAS AVENUE WAYFINDINGHOUSTON LOCATION THEATER w DISTRICT MASTERPLAN

VehicleWAYFINDING Directional LOCATION

Vehicle Directional Vehicle Gateway BAGBYSTREET CAPITOL STREET Vehicle Gateway BAGBYSTREET WALKER STREET MILAM STREET CAPITOL STREET WALKER STREET MILAM STREET

RUSK STREET RUSK STREET LOUISIANA STREET LOUISIANA STREET

SMITH STREET

SMITH STREET

VEHICLE STRATEGY

Visitors to the district typically arrive and placement of the signs needs to information. Drivers looking to park will by car, park their vehicle, and then be well thought out and implemented be able to focus on the parking options continue on foot as pedestrians throughout the system. For example, presented in each sign. Color coding is navigating to a performance venue, organization of information from top to recommended to distinguish between to the Bayou Center, or to another bottom could be - left turn first, right destination and parking options. major destination. turn next, and up ahead last. Vehicular signs are intended to be read An improved vehicular wayfinding As these signs are intended for drivers, from a roadway inside a moving car. system could help guide vehicles the best parking option for each The information needs to be the right quickly and easily to their destination, destination needs to be directed to. length and size, and placed adequately to minimize vehicle congestion on the In these diagrams the lower portion for the speed and distance it is to be streets. The organization of information of these signs is devoted to parking read from.

63 VEHICULAR WAYFINDING SYSTEM | SIGN TYPE 3.0 SECONDARY FONTS COLOR PALETTE

PREPARED FOR THE HOUSTON DOWNTOWN MANAGEMENT DISTRICT 04 - TAKING ACTION NOW MAREK-HILL DESIGN 07.14.2014

UNIVERS 67 BOLD CONDENSED (COLOR BAND)

AVENIR 65 MEDIUM (LOWER PANEL) YELLOW 116 C DARK GRAY MEDIUM GRAY RED 485 C WHITE BRUSHED STAINLESS METALLIC SILVER PAINT Downtown Houston THEATER DISTRICT WAYFINDING Typical Pylon Panel Layout - 2-Sided & 4-Sided Units Pedestrian Wayfinding System BRANDED LOGO Signs feature a Houston Theater District Side C OWNER: branded logo HEADER PANEL 1'-9" Houston Downtown Featuring a Houston Theater BAGBY & TEXAS HEADER TEXT WORTHAM THEATER HEADER TEXT Management District, Inc. Identi es intersecting streets District branded logo Identi es Parking Garage 909 Fannin St., Suite 1650 Side B Houston, Tx. 77010 VEHICULAR WAYFINDING SYSTEM | SIGN TYPE 3.0 SECONDARY FONTS COLOR PALETTE THEATER DISTRICT DISTRICT IDENTITY THEATER DISTRICT DISTRICT IDENTITY BAGBY & TEXAS HEADER TEXT Side D Side B 1'-9" 1'-9" PREPARED FOR THE HOUSTON DOWNTOWN MANAGEMENT DISTRICT Hobby Center Identi es intersecting streets DIRECTIONAL PANEL 250 DIRECTIONAL PANEL

Tranquillity Park 8" MAREK-HILL DESIGN 07.14.2014 6" silver metallic Identi es destinations THEATER DISTRICTIdenti es number DISTRICT IDENTITY Civic District SPACES AVAILABLE of parking spaces acrylic-polyurethane Side A Side A available 2'-0" paint over aluminum Hobby Center 4 min 2'-0" 6" UNIVERS 67 BOLD CONDENSEDdome (COLOR BAND) PARKING ICONS DIRECTIONAL PANEL Bayou Center Tranquillity Park 3 min PLAN VIEW PLAN VIEW Alley Theatre Parking Directs to Parking StationIdenti es destinations Wortham Theater Hobby Center Parking Alley Theatre Bayou Center 1 min Jones Hall Houston, Texas AVENIR 65 MEDIUM (LOWER PANEL) YELLOW 116 C DARK GRAY MEDIUM GRAY RED 485 C WHITE BRUSHED STAINLESS METALLIC SILVER Sundance Cinema tel: 713.665.1804 | fax: 713.660.8144 Bayou Music Center www.marek-hill.com 6'-0" 6'-0" 6'-0" PARKINGPAIN ITCONS 1'-9" 1'-9" Alley Theatre Parking Directs to Parking Station Wortham Theater 2 min Fish Plaza Hobby Center Parking Sign Cabinet: Alley Theatre 4 min replace cabinet faces & returns; Jones Hall 5 min BRANDED LOGO MAIN & PRESTON MAIN & PRESTON SIGN FAMILY 1/8” thick aluminum face panels; Signs feature a Houston Jones Plaza 4'-0" acrylic-polyurethane paint; 4'-0"Theater District HISTORIC DISTRICT HISTORIC DISTRICT 19'-6" vinyl text & graphics both sides TYPICAL PANEL LAYOUT branded logo UH Downtown UH Downtown Allenís Landing Allenís Landing Bu alo Bayou Bu alo Bayou HEADER TEXT TYPICAL PYLON 9'-3" 9'-3" 5'-4" BAGBY & TEXAS WORTHAM THEATER HEADER TEXT 5'-4" Harris County Courts Harris County Courts Identi es intersecting streets Identi es Parking Garage Minute Maid Park Minute Maid Park PANEL LAYOUT Medium Gray Metallic Market Square Park Market Square Park (existing posts to be sandblasted, Theater District Theater District THEATER DISTRICT DISTRICT IDENTITY THEATER DISTRICT DISTRICT IDENTITY MAP PANEL Sesquicentennial Park Sesquicentennial Park coated with zinc-rich primer under Downtown Aquarium Downtown Aquarium 11'-0" acrylic-polyurethane paint) Identi es Pedestrian routes; Hobby Center destinations, transit pathways etc. Tranquillity Park DIRECTIONAL PANEL 250 DIRECTIONAL PANEL silver metallic Identi es destinations Identi es number Issue Date: Civic District SPACES AVAILABLE acrylic-polyurethane of parking spaces available 2'-0" paint over aluminum Brushed Stainless Steel Column Cover 2'-0" 6" 01: 01-15-13 dome New Stainless Steel base plate PARKING ICONS Bayou Center 4'-0" Alley Theatre Parking Directs to Parking Station TRANSIT ICONS 02: 03-25-14 Wortham Theater Hobby Center Parking Directs to METRORail 03: 04-22-14 Alley Theatre 1'-8" 1'-8" Jones Hall

6'-0" 6'-0" FRONT ELEVATION 6'-0" SIDE ELEVATIONS BACK ELEVATION PARKING ICONS Scale 1/2” = 1’ Scale 1/2” = 1’ Alley TheatreScale Parking 1/2” = 1’ Directs to Parking Station Hobby Center Parking Sign Cabinet: replace cabinet faces & returns; 1/8” thick aluminum face panels; SIGN TYPES Sheet No. acrylic-polyurethane paint; 4'-0" 4'-0" ST-B 19'-6" vinyl text & graphics both sides TYPICAL PANEL LAYOUT ST-A The signs shown above leverage Parking entrances could be branded Information centers, such as4-SIDED UNIT 2-SIDED UNIT the Downtown Houston Wayfinding for each of the major venues, with real maps, electronic “kiosks” or Sothercale 1/2î = 1í Scale 1/2î = 1í Medium Gray Metallic 03 (existing posts to be sandblasted, System project, but are slightly time information to show the number of devices which communicate more coated with zinc-rich primer under 11'-0" acrylic-polyurethane paint) modified to show additional information parking spaces available. In the short than direction are useful to create and a potential Theater District logo. term, the existing parking identification a complete system. These digital structures can be reused, with new, versions of signs can provide Brushed Stainless Steel Column Cover Vehicle signs direct drivers to multiple New Stainless Steel base plate branded sign panels inserted. up-to-the-minute information relating 4'-0" destinations such as performance to Theater District events or details on venues, shopping/dining areas, and Pedestrian information can be seen a specific venue. These units could be parking. These signs typically are pole at a shorter distance, and contain placed in public spaces throughout the FRONT ELEVATION SIDE ELEVATIONS BACK ELEVATION mounted from the side of the road or considerably more information Scale 1/2” = 1’ Scale 1/2” = 1’ Scale 1/2” = 1’ district and linked to personal digital on medians. The height must be higher presented to the viewer, such as walk devices such as smart phones. than a typical tall vehicle or short truck. times and location maps.

64 Houston Theater District Master Plan w CHAPTER FRANKLIN STREET 04

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TEXAS AVENUE w w WAYFINDINGHOUSTON LOCATION THEATER w DISTRICT MASTERPLAN

w PedestrianWAYFINDING Diretional LOCATION w Pedestrianw Pedestrian Diretional Information BAGBYSTREET Pedestrian CAPITOL STREET Center Information BAGBYSTREET WALKER STREET MILAM STREET CAPITOL STREET Center WALKER STREET MILAM STREET

RUSK STREET RUSK STREET LOUISIANA STREET LOUISIANA STREET

SMITH STREET

SMITH STREET

PEDESTRIAN STRATEGY

Pedestrian signs have more leeway be identified. Walking time or distance as to their size and level of detail can also be incorporated into the signs shown. However agreement on the when appropriate. destinations to be included is still essential in order to limit the amount Pedestrian entrances to the and over-all size of these signs. underground parking could be clearly identified, as well as LRT stations and Destinations are organized by venue, major tourist destination including and internal destinations, such as hotels in the future. Sundance Cinema within the Bayou Center, are identified. Public spaces such as parks and plazas could also

65 04 - TAKING ACTION NOW

PARKING AND UNDERGROUND

In the short term, significant OVERVIEW stress associated with arriving and departing the Theater District parking garages can be alleviated with a new parking management system that is dynamic and intuitive for visitors.

Color-coded zones, clear identification of stairs and elevators, and signs showing real-time parking availability can help reduce the stress associated with arriving to the Theater District PARKING MANAGEMENT STRATEGY

What is it? the zones, with dynamic information A new color coded organization showing how many parking spaces are system will be introduced to direct available on each floor of that zone. visitors quickly to the appropriate In this way, visitors who are short on garage entrance, circulate to quickly time will able to quickly get to the floor find an open parking space, remember and zone with the greatest number of where they parked, and find the parking spaces currently available. best stairway to exit to get to their destination. In this scheme the parking Each staircase will be labeled with the garage is divided into four color-coded street intersection, helping to orient areas, with a clear indication of the visitors and tying their understanding of destinations most closely available the garage to the street grid above. from that location. Wayfinding and Where will it go? identification signage at street level will Throughout the garage and at key also be color coded to match decision points as shown on page 67. the underground. Why is it important? Navigation throughout the underground Alleviates the confusion and stress parking will be improved with new currently associated with visiting the signs that will direct drivers to each of Theater District. 66 Houston Theater District Master Plan HOUSTON THEATER DISTRICT MASTERPLAN CHAPTER 04 ACCESS AND PARKING

Theater District Boundary Theater District Places Vehicular Access from the Highway Vehicle Route to Parking Theater District Parking HOUSTON THEATER Proposed Theater District Parking Garages DISTRICT MASTERPLAN Parking Garages nearby PARKING AND UNDERGROUND: PARKING MANAGEMENT STRATEGY ACCESS AND PARKING P Theater Distirct Parking Sign

VIP Theater Distirct VIP Parking Sign Theater District Boundary Theater District Places Parking Directional Sign Vehicular Access from the Pedestrian Access from Parking Highway Garage to Jones Plaza Vehicle Route to Parking Pedestrian Access to street Theater District Parking Proposed Theater District P Parking Garages Parking Garages nearby P P Theater Distirct Parking Sign VIP Theater Distirct VIP Parking Sign P P Parking Directional Sign 966 SPACES Pedestrian Access from Parking ALLEY Garage to Jones Plaza ACES PURPLE Pedestrian Access to street 966 SPACES - Bayou Place P ACES Mercury - Wortham Center 105 SP

HOBBY P P 800 SP ACES Appolo P GREEN P 966 SPACES 800 SP Little ORANGE P ALLEY P - Jones Hall PURPLE ACES ACES Tranquillity 966 SPACES - Jones Plaza - Bayou Place ACES Mercury - Wortham Center 105 SP 900 SP HOBBY ACES P P 800 SP Appolo GREEN P 800 SP P Little ORANGE P Tranquillity P - Jones Hall ACES MAROON - Jones Plaza 563 SP P - Tranquillity 900HOUSTON SP THEATER ACES ACES - City Hall P DISTRICT MASTERPLAN P P UNDERGROUND PARKING 293 SP PARKING WAYFINDING 3669 SPACES MAROON 563 SP P - Tranquillity HOUSTON THEATER ACES - City Hall ACES Parking Directional DISTRICT MASTERPLAN

UNDERGROUND PARKING 293 SP P Theater District PARKING WAYFINDING 3669 SPACES Parking Garage Entrance Parking Directional Color-coded P P Theater District Underground Parking Parking Garage Entrance Entrance

P Color-coded Underground Parking Entrance

67 04 - TAKING ACTION NOW

PARKING AND UNDERGROUND: PARKING MANAGEMENT STRATEGY

OVERHEAD GARAGE DIRECTIONAL

STAIR / ELEVATOR DIRECTORY DYNAMIC PARKING INFORMATION RESERVED / VIP SPACE

SIGNAGE

Signage will be an important element garages for the Alley Theatre and indicate which parking zone can be to help visitors understand how the Hobby Center will be included in the accessed at that location, as well as parking system is organized and to sign system. the destinations served by that zone. navigate quickly into and through it in a Within the garage, signs will direct way that minimizes stress. Wayfinding and dynamic signage visitors to the appropriate zone and will help reduce excessive vehicle floor. Parking signage will start at street queuing at the Jones Plaza level, at major vehicle gateways to entrances by directing drivers to less For guests who reserve spaces in the Theater District where new signs congested entrances that might be advance, express access to the garage will direct visitors to the appropriate more conveniently located to their could be provided, and guests will be parking entrance for each venue. destination. The dynamic signs at able to locate their reserved parking Both the underground parking garage parking entrances will indicate which space with a dynamic sign that will as well as the above-ground parking garage zones have available parking. show their name on the wall in front of Entrance signs will be color coded to their parking space.

68 Houston Theater District Master Plan CHAPTER 04

PARKING AND UNDERGROUND: PARKING MANAGEMENT STRATEGY

Consistent color and bright lighting on each floor, stairway, and elevator entrance within a parking garage zone.

LIGHTING AND COLOR

For legibility, unique accent lighting for increased recognition of access to the As an additional visual wayfinding easy identification of above-ground tunnel system above-ground. assist we envision vertically installed pedestrian access points to tunnels lighting elements at the car exits for and the underground parking system Through study of peak parking garage long-distance recognition. Pedestrian is advised. Several forms can be usage, lighting levels and be controlled exits could be highlighted on both considered, for example a beacon or to augment the perception of safety horizontal and vertical surfaces to globe sited at access-stair structures, when needed. It is recommended to create pools and gates of luminance. color coded and/or patterned wall provide a minimum of 1 foot-candle The wall treatments at these locations treatments, improved illumination (fc) and a maximum of 2 fc throughout shall match the interior parking garage of existing glass-block features and the day as user needs fluctuate. All wall treatment to help the visitor with illumination of the interior stair walls. lighting fixtures could match in color recognition upon exiting. These treatments are envisioned as temperature and lumen output to guidance throughout the district for create a consistent layer of light.

69 04 - TAKING ACTION NOW

PROGRAMMING AND FESTIVALS

Programming, festivals and OVERVIEW temporary installations will require active management and planning but can also be an immediate solution to activating Theater District streets and public spaces.

Pop-up farmer’s market in downtown Austin, Texas

OVERVIEW

To activate the Theater District in the to draw crowds beyond regular near term, there are two types of performance hours such that it does relatively low cost interventions that become a place where residents, can be developed and implemented employees and other visitors come just almost immediately, within the next two to see what is going on. years. These include: Festivals could be featured prominently 1. Temporary artistic or activity on a re-branded Theater District installations throughout the district, website. For events that may bring specifically in front of Bayou Place and large crowds to the district, the website adjacent to the Houston Ballet Center could direct visitors to the overflow for Dance. surface parking lots owned by Houston First. Small shuttles can bring visitors 2. Yearly, quarterly and even daily from these lots into the Theater District festivals and outdoor events to draw for the event. visitors during the day, after work, and on evenings and weekends

By initiating these activities now, it sets the stage for the Theater District

70 Houston Theater District Master Plan CHAPTER 04

PROGRAMMING AND FESTIVALS: TEMPORARY INSTALLATIONS

Temporary structures on the existing plaza of Bayou Place

FRONT ROW AT BAYOU PLACE

What is it? Where will it go? Why is it important?

A temporary marketplace using Kiosks and associated street furniture Front Row will be able to immediately flexible kiosks, tables and chairs, will line the plaza in front of Bayou start activating the Theater District and umbrellas for shade. Front Row Place along Smith Street, across streets without requiring major becomes an active space for local the street from Jones Plaza. Existing redevelopment or cost, bringing people retail and food vendors and can be parking spaces for business owners out from the shops underground and set up for daily use. Kiosks could have can be relocated to the Bayou Place the insides of office buildings. It will access to utility hookups, and all plaza garage, or another location within the be a first step in creating building elements could be designed using a Theater District underground parking frontages that prioritize people and similar language to convey the unique garage, depending on what is agreed activities over vehicles and parking. identity of the Theater District. on between the business owners and Houston First. The new market place creates a space The design shown includes six 10-ft for people to gather and linger in a by 20-ft kiosks, each with a slightly currently underused parking area. different design but a similar language for a light, modern and flexible look.

71 04 - TAKING ACTION NOW

PROGRAMMING AND FESTIVALS: TEMPORARY INSTALLATIONS

Dynamic media walls can also serve as an informal gathering space and temporary activity nodes in the Theater District

MEDIA WALL AT THE HOUSTON BALLET CENTER FOR DANCE

What is it? Where will it go? Why is it important?

A large mesh video wall installed on The mesh wall can be mounted on Until the surface lot is redeveloped with the concrete side of the Houston Ballet the side of the Houston Ballet Center residential, as proposed in the Houston Center for Dance. It would comprise for Dance adjacent to Louisiana Street Downtown Framework, it remains a one large image that could show between Preston Street and Congress large blank wall that does not serve video, art, or a live camera. The total Street. The surface parking lot below to activate the public realm. Dynamic size of the screen will be approximately the wall could be used for temporary lighting can provide a temporary way to 100’ wide x 56’ high. A metal fabric events such as movie screenings activate this space and bring liveliness type design with 6 LED’s per pixel or interactive art installations, where to the street. mesh system will be installed and will visitors could drive in and park, or be full-color and capable for use during be provided with temporary outdoor the daytime as well as at night, with a seating. Food trucks could be allowed pixel resolution of 50 mm vertical x 50 to park in the surface lot during mm horizontal. screening events.

72 Houston Theater District Master Plan CHAPTER 04

PROGRAMMING AND FESTIVALS: ANNUAL FESTIVALS

HOUSTON FASHION WEEK JAZZ FESTIVAL RADIANT NIGHT FESTIVAL

What is it? What is it? What is it? A one-week fashion industry event in A one- to two-week long event where The Radiant Night Festival would be which designers display their latest local, national and international jazz coordinated by Houston First’s special runway collections to the media and musicians perform shows across events group in partnership with art public, showcasing the latest trends. venues throughout the week. consultants and lighting experts. This group would develop a Requests for Where will it go? Where will it go? Proposal and review submissions Jones Plaza and Fish Plaza could hold Performances can occur within any of for pilot lighting projects that could outdoor shows and fashion pavilions the performing arts venues as well as become permanent installations- linking for the various events, as well as on temporary outdoor stages in the the festival to future implementation of temporary restaurants and buyers Theater District plazas and parks, and longer term lighting concepts. markets. These could also be held in along the Buffalo Bayou. periphery sites inducing Tranquillity Where will it go? Park. Temporary street closures along Why is it important? Lighting installations could be placed Texas Avenue could support runways Jazz festivals extend the reach of the throughout the district on bridges, for opening and closing shows. traditional theater district patron and building facades, parks and streets create a feeling of inclusiveness. Events (see map on page 55). Why is it important? can occur throughout the day and local Fashion Week has the potential businesses can participate to provide Why is it important? to attract regional, national and food and other services during the Festivals attract new visitors, and international visitors to the district. festival event. this event will enliven the nighttime experience.

73 04 - TAKING ACTION NOW

PROGRAMMING AND FESTIVALS: QUARTERLY EVENTS

ARTISAN MARKET FOOD TRUCK FESTIVAL OUTDOOR MOVIE NIGHT

What is it? What is it? What is it? An opportunity for local artisans, such A quarterly (or monthly) festival that Movies can be projected on building as the Contemporary Handwavers of showcases food from restaurants facades or on temporary inflatable Houston to have a lively and central across Houston. Live music, tables, screens. Visitors can bring chairs or space to sell their work. chairs, shade, will create an event blankets to sit on the lawn and enjoy where people linger. Each food truck an outdoor movie after the sun sets. Where will it go? event could have a theme that speaks Temporary stalls would be set up in to the diversity of Houston’s residents. Where will it go? Jones Plaza or Little Tranquillity Park. Sesquicentennial Park, Tranquillity Where will it go? Park, Jones Plaza. Why is it important? Potential locations include Fish Plaza, Markets create a space for artists Jones Plaza, in front of the Hobby Why is it important? to showcase and sell their work. A Center along Bagby Street, and along Create nighttime activities in the recurring market in the Theater District the edges of Bayou Place. district. Plazas become a space for will create a daytime draw that will socializing and enjoying the outdoors encourage more frequent visits and Why is it important? when it is cooler in the evening. establish the district as a place where Houston has a strong foodie culture something is always going on. and residents enjoy eating out. This has the potential to attract famous and up and coming chefs, enhancing the urban and edgy feel of the district.

74 Houston Theater District Master Plan CHAPTER 04

PROGRAMMING AND FESTIVALS: DAILY ACTIVITIES

KIOSKS STREET PERFORMERS CLIMBING WALL

What is it? What is it? What is it? Theater-district branded, flexible kiosks Houston First can designate specific A tall, temporary wall constructed with that can be used for small restaurants plazas and spaces where street grips built in and places to attach belay or cafes, retail spaces, art installations performances are allowed and create a ropes, where visitors can learn how to and more. permitting process by which artists can rock climb. This would be monitored apply and audition for specific locations and maintained by a certified vendor. Where will it go? and times to perform their show. Along the edges of Bayou Place and Where will it go? in any of the Theater District Plazas. Where will it go? A climbing wall can be installed in front There is also the potential to set up Performances could happen in any of any facade that currently lacks an kiosks along the side of the Houston of the Theater District public spaces, active ground floor use, such as the Ballet Center for Dance. especially Jones Plaza, Fish Plaza, edges of the existing Bayou Place Little Tranquillity, Sesquicentennial Park, along Capitol Street. Why is it important? and even on the steps in front of the Kiosks can create pockets of activity Alley Theatre. Why is it important? throughout the district and are Creates new family-friendly activity to temporary and easy to install. It is also Why is it important? complement the Downtown Aquarium, a way to allow new businesses to rent Street performers add life and and can activate an otherwise blank or out smaller spaces at a lower cost to excitement to public spaces at all unattractive facade. grow and expand their business. times of day.

75 The vision of the 2025 Theater District Master Plan is layered into short and long term initiatives. This allows for immediate transformation as the foundations for a stronger future are laid. Short term actions are focused on low cost, easy to implement “quick hits” as well as a few catalyst projects. The short term allows for immediate action to start building the new Theater District brand – an urban and edgy downtown district where people come from all over to partake in activities. For larger and more complex interventions – due to cost, agency approvals, stakeholder buy in – a long term program is proposed. This roadmap will take us to 2025 and outlines the steps along the way for a revitalized and rebranded Theater District that plays to today’s strengths while positioning for an even better tomorrow.

“7 Wonders” public art piece, by local Houstonian artist Mel Chin features the art work of many hundreds of Houston school children. Located next to Wortham Theater.

76 Houston Theater District Master Plan 05 - PHASING AND COSTS

PROJECT PHASING LONG TERM PROJECTS SHORT TERM PROJECTS MASTER PLAN TOTAL COST

77 05 -PHASING AND COST

PHASING AND COSTS

PROJECT PHASING

Project Short Term Phase Long Term Phase KEY: Year ‘15 ‘16 ‘17 ‘18 ‘19 ‘20 ‘21 ‘22 ‘23 ‘24 Taking Action Now A - Center Stage Projects Taking Action Now B - Bagby Boulevard Projects Parking Strategy C - Livable Streets Projects Wayfinding Planning/ Implementation Programming

Master Plan Projects Jones Plaza Jones Plaza Cafe Alley Theatre Lighting Installation Interactive Art / Media Wall Bayou Place Redevelopment- Building 3 Hanging Oak Lighting Installation Bayou Place Redevelopment- Building 1 & 2 Tranquillity Park Redesign Texas Avenue Branded Crossings Streetscape Plan Wortham Overpass Facade Lighting Lighting Plan Fish Plaza Fish Plaza Cafe New Shared Street Festival Streets Bagby Street Little Tranquillity Redesign Little Tranquillity Cafe Smith Street Louisiana Street Curb Extensions Theater District Light Walk Smith Street Bridge Removal New Pedestrian Bridge

78 Houston Theater District Master Plan CHAPTER 05

SHORT TERM PROJECTS (YEARS 1 - 5)

Project Total Project Short Term: Costs per year Cost 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 Taking Action Now Parking Strategy $5,800,000 290,000 580,000 1,643,000 1,643,000 1,644,000 Wayfinding $230,000 11,500 23,000 97,750 97,750 Programming $2,500,000 250,000 1,125,000 1,125,000

Master Plan Projects A1-Jones Plaza $4,600,000 460,000 1,380,000 1,380,000 1,380,000 A2-Jones Plaza Cafe $400,000 40,000 200,000 160,000 A3-Fish Plaza $2,300,000 230,000 A7-Alley Theater Light Installation $120,000 120,000 A8-Bayou Place Redevelopment, Building 3) $400,000 40,000 80,000 80,000 80,000 A9-Interactive Art/Media Wall $250,000 250,000 B2-Hanging Oak Lighting $60,000 60,000 B5 & B6 Bayou Redevelopment, Building 1 & 2 $1,000,000 100,000 200,000 200,000 200,000 B7-Tranquillity Park $26,000,000 1,300,000 1,300,000 7,800,000 7,800,000 C4-Texas Avenue $1,100,000 110,000 990,000 C5-Branded Crossings $140,000 14,000 126,000 C6-Steetscape Plan $4,000,000 800,000 1,200,000 1,000,000 1,000,000 C7-Wortham Center Overpass Facade $250,000 25,000 225,000 C9-Lighting Plan $250,000 125,000 125,000 Short Term Cost $38,490,000 1,776,500 5,698,000 7,231,083 12,553,083 11,231,333 2% annual growth factor $40,590,000 1,777,000 5,812,000 7,523,000 13,321,000 12,157,000

Updating the wayfinding system, redevelopment of Jones Plaza and improving the parking experience, and Bayou Place in Center Stage, the heart increasing event programming are all of the district. “quick hits” that can start to occur immediately to begin to activate the Some projects, such as the district. Lighting and art installations redevelopment of Fish Plaza, will start are also low cost, short term strategies their planning phases in the short that can begin to establish a Theater term, but implementation will continue District brand and identity. well into the long term. As such, Total Project Costs for each project in the At the same time, planning and table above may include annual costs implementation can begin for shown in the Long Term Projects table some of the longer term catalytic on the following page. transformations, particularly the

79 05 -PHASING AND COST

LONG TERM PROJECTS (YEARS 6 -10)

Project Total Project Long Term: Costs per year Cost 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 Master Plan Projects A3-Fish Plaza $2,300,000 690,000 690,000 690,000 A4-Fish Plaza Cafe $400,000 40,000 200,000 160,000 A5-Festival Streets $12,000,000 1,200,000 6,000,000 4,800,000 A6-New Shared Street $400,000 240,000 160,000 A8-Bayou Redevelopment- Building 3 $400,000 80,000 40,000 B1-Bagby Street $9,700,000 970,000 4,850,000 2,910,000 970,000 B3-Little Tranquillity Redesign $2,000,000 200,000 1,000,000 800,000 B4-Little Tranquillity Cafe $400,000 40,000 120,000 240,000 B5 & B6 Bayou Redevelopment- Building 1 & 2 $1,000,000 200,000 100,000 B7-Tranquillity Park $26,000,000 7,800,000 C1-Smith Street $2,250,000 225,000 2,025,000 C2-Congress Avenue Bridge Removal $350,000 35,000 140,000 175,000

C3-Louisiana Street $1,800,000 180,000 1,620,000

C8-Theater District Light Walk $400,000 200,000 200,000 C10-New Pedestrian Bridge $700,000 70,000 280,000 350,000 Long Term Yearly Totals $40,690,000 10,125,000 6,660,000 6,330,000 9,335,000 8,240,000 2% annual growth factor $46,735,000 11,179,000 7,500,000 7,271,000 10,937,000 9,848,000

The long term phases include the Reconstruction of Theater District of the Congress Street bridge for larger and more complex interventions streets to prioritize the new pedestrian daylighting the river, and adding a new due to cost, agency approvals and activity that will be generated will also pedestrian bridge. Little Tranquillity stakeholder buy-in. Along with further occur in the 6 - 10 year timeframe. Park will also be the final cafe and developing Center Stage, projects plaza redevelopment to complete the along the new Bagby Boulevard start The final phases of plan execution full transformation of the district. to take shape, and development of the will start to reconnect the district to Bayou Center could be well underway. the Buffalo Bayou, with the removal

80 Houston Theater District Master Plan CHAPTER 05

MASTER PLAN TOTAL COST

Project Total Project The projected total cost of the 2025 Cost Master Plan will be about Taking Action Now $87 million over the span of 10 years Parking Strategy $5,800,000 (2015 - 2025). Wayfinding $230,000 Note that several projects will also Programming $2,500,000 be revenue generating for the Master Plan Projects district, including the three new A1-Jones Plaza $4,600,000 cafes in Jones Plaza, Fish Plaza and A2-Jones Plaza Cafe $400,000 Little Tranquillity Park, temporary A3-Fish Plaza $2,300,000 kiosks that can be leased to local A4-Fish Plaza Cafe $400,000 businesses, and the commercial, A5-Festival Streets $12,000,000 residential and retail spaces of the Buffalo Bayou redevelopment. A6-New Shared Street $400,000 A7-Alley Theater Light Installation $120,000 A8-Bayou Redevelopment- Building 3 $400,000 A9-Interactive Art/Media Wall $250,000 B1-Bagby Street $9,700,000 B2-Hanging Oak Lighting $60,000 B3-Little Tranquillity Redesign $2,000,000 B4-Little Tranquillity Cafe $400,000 B5 & B6 Bayou Redevelopment- Building 1 & 2 $1,000,000 B7-Tranquillity Park* $26,000,000 C1-Smith Street $2,250,000 C2-Congress Avenue Bridge Removal $350,000 C3-Louisiana Street $1,800,000

C4-Texas Avenue $1,070,000 C5-Branded Crossings $350,000 C6-Steetscape Plan $3,200,000 C7-Wortham Center Overpass Facade $250,000 C8-Theater District Light Walk $400,000 C9-Lighting Plan $250,000 C10-New Pedestrian Bridge $700,000

Grand Total $79,180,000 Total with 2% annual growth factor $87,325,000

*From 2012 Tranquillity Park Master Plan

81 The Houston Theater District Master Plan has been sponsored by

Supported by • Alley Theatre • City of Houston • Da Camera of Houston • Hobby Center for the Performing Arts • Houston Ballet • Houston Downtown Management District • Houston Grand Opera • Houston Symphony • Society for the Performing Arts • Theatre Under The Stars

Consultant team lead by

With support from • Clack Condon Associates • The Principle Partnering Group • RPH Consulting Group • Smith & Company Architects • Tranquillity Park Design by White Oak Studio