Jefferson Square Redesign Concept Development

JEFFERSON SQUARE A VISION FOR LOUISVILLE’S PREMIER CIVIC SPACE TECHNICAL REPORT | FEBRUARY 2019 Page intentionally left blank ACKNOWLEDGMENTS Robert Pass & Associates Corn IslandArchaeology Kolar Design De Leon&PrimmerArchitecture Workshop MKSK CONSULTANT TEAM: Patrick Piuma, PlanningDirector (former) Rebecca Matheny, Executive Director LOUISVILLE DOWNTOWN PARTNERSHIP Public Services Doug Hamilton, Chief Office of Advanced Planning Sarah Lindgren, PublicArtAdministrator Louisville Forward Tommy Clark, Economic Development Officer Office of Advanced Planning Michael King, UrbanPlanner, Project Manager Office of Advanced Planning Gretchen Miliken, AIA, Director Louisville Forward Mary Ellen Wiederwohl, Chief Mayor Greg Fischer LOUISVILLE METRO 3 Contents Executive Summary Existing Conditions The MasterPlan Plan OfAction JEFFERSON Introduction Page 48 Page 26 Page 14 Page 6 Page 4 RE SQUARE 04 03 02 01 ES D Executive summary

THE SITE THE VISION Jefferson Square was created in the late 1970’s Downtown Louisville has seen significant growth as a public open space strategically located in residents, tourism, and employment over the adjacent to several civic and government last several years. The growth appeals to those buildings in downtown Louisville. The site is desiring to live, work, and play in a thriving urban currently surrounded on threes sides by city community. Great public spaces are essential streets (Jefferson Street, 6th Street, and Liberty for the health and prosperity of cities. Jefferson Street) and shares the city block with 300 West Square is centrally located as a significant Jefferson, a 31-story office tower. At .86 acres, cultural space in the community and is in need Jefferson Square hosts a diverse range of of a transformation. There is great potential for traditional park amenities including picnic tables, the space to become an active public space that benches, lighting, a water feature (no longer integrates seamlessly with its surroundings and functioning), trees, landscaping, sidewalks, and a reinforces its significance to the community. small stage. On the surface the operative terms framing this The site also contains several uniquely significant project are “Civic” and “Square”, however early features including memorial monuments devoted in the process we asked the question, “What is to fallen police officers and firefighters, sister the function of a civic space within today’s urban cities signage and flags. The site is currently the context?” Using feedback gathered from the focal point of “Light Up Louisville”, an annual community through public engagement activities, celebration on the Friday after Thanksgiving that this document re-imagines Jefferson Square as kicks off the holiday season with a dedication of Downtown Louisville’s premier urban space. Our the city’s Christmas tree and an illumination of vision for Jefferson Square embraces high-quality downtown. civic engagement desired by the community, while functioning as a flexible urban gathering Patrons of Jefferson Square predominantly space. The new Jefferson Square will do so by consist of a few people seated at picnic tables or operating as not only an urban park, but as a along elevated planting beds, pedestrians using stage, memorial, gallery, and as a sustainable the cross-crossing pathways through the square environment within Louisville growing urban heat to other destinations. The space is often the site island. of public rallies and gatherings due in part to its geographic location and visibility. Food vendors often setup on the periphery of the square during the lunch hour.

4 VIEW LOOKING SOUTHEAST

VIEW LOOKING SOUTHWEST

VIEW LOOKING NORTH

5 Introduction

6 DESIGN NARRATIVE

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

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

RIVER CONNECTION Settlement and immigration | Industrial port AL B Flood and proximity to Square | Metaphor for O L connectivity G

RIVER CIVIC

JEFFERSON

CONNECTION PRIDE

SQUARE LOCAL HERITAGE: L

C Present and past architecture | “On this place” A

in Louisville history | Former landowners of the L Square | Sculptures surrounding the site

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

7 SITE HISTORY

BUILT IN THE 1970’S, JEFFERSON SQUARE IS A RELATIVELY RECENT ADDITION TO DOWNTOWN, ONCE OCCUPIED BY VARIOUS BUILDINGS AND STRUCTURES.

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

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

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

8 NORTH

9 Sanborn Insurance Map, 1892 PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT overview

THE PLANNING TEAM ENGAGED THE COMMUNITY FOR FEEDBACK AT VARIOUS STAGES IN THE DESIGN PROCESS. BOTH STAKEHOLDERS AND MEMBERS OF THE COMMUNITY WERE INVITED TO PROVIDE THEIR COMMENTS AND IDEAS, WHICH WERE USED TO SHAPE THE DESIGN FOR JEFFERSON SQUARE, AND REFINE ALTERNATIVES.

STAKEHOLDERS PUBLIC OPEN HOUSE The planning team met with representatives An open house was held in Louisville Metro Hall from Louisville Metro Staff, Fire Department and on February 26 of 2018, in which members of the Police Department. Through these conversations, Louisville community were invited to share their the planning team gained an understanding of feedback on three draft design concepts for the how the current memorials were perceived, park. The three designs gave the community a what improvements could be done to enhance range of options, and provided an opportunity for their visibility, and how this space could be their ideas to be incorporated into the final design. better utilized for both large and intimate events The meeting, attended by around 30 people, honoring public servants. resulted in a preferred design concept with a larger gathering area and enhanced memorial LIGHT UP LOUISVILLE wall/garden. Now in its 37th year, Light Up Louisville brings thousands of visitors to downtown from across PUBLIC SAFETY MEMORIAL FAMILY MEETING the region. The 2017 event was held on November The design team met with representatives from 24, and saw the return of the festivities to Louisville Metro Staff, Public Safety Officials, and Jefferson Square. The planning team set up a families of fallen public safety officials during table in the Vendors’ Village during the event, the initial conceptualization phase of the project. and talked to members of the community about The memorials play a significant role within the the potential future of the park. Participants existing Jefferson Square, and are intended to be were asked to fill out a comment card detailing incorporated and positioned prominently within their vision for the square. There were various the redesign of the space. This nearly two-hour suggestions for the future design, such as meeting resulted in great conversation about gathering areas, additional trees, a water feature, repositioning of the memorials themselves and and space for lunchtime and large crowds. These the design of the spaces in which they will reside. vision statements were used to guide the design through its initial stages, incorporating many of the community’s suggestions.

10 LIGHT UP LOUISVILLE (NOVEMBER 24, 2017)

PUBLIC OPEN HOUSE (METRO HALL, FEBRUARY 26, 2018) MAYOR’S CONCERT SERIES (OCTOBER 4, 2018)

11 WHAT WE HEARD

THE COMMUNITY WANTS A MORE INCLUSIVE, BETTER PROGRAMMED, AND MORE WELCOMING JEFFERSON SQUARE TO SERVE ALL LOUISVILLIANS.

Through community events and an Open House, we asked members of the Louisville community to share their vision for Jefferson Square and to let us know if the potential redesign concept met their expectations. Shown in these pages are the results from these activities, in which the community overwhelmingly supported a transformation of the square, and suggested that it becomes a central gathering space for the city through inclusive programming.

HOW OFTEN DO YOU VISIT WILL A REDESIGN MOTIVATE YOU TO VISIT JEFFERSON SQUARE? (11 responses) JEFFERSON SQUARE MORE OFTEN? (11 responses) Daily

Once a Week Yes!

Once a Month Maybe, depending Only for Special on events/ Events programming

Never No

WHAT EVENTS/ACTIVITIES WOULD YOU ARE THERE OTHER OPPORTUNITIES WE LIKE TO SEE HAPPEN IN JEFFERSON SHOULD CONSIDER AND INCLUDE? SQUARE? (9 responses) (4 responses)

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

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

13 EXISTING CONDITIONS

14 Introduction

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

Jefferson Square, a 1-acre urban park situated near City Hall surrounded by private and governmental offices, is located at the METRO HALL intersection of Jefferson Street and 6th Street. CITY CITY Lost in overgrown plant materials, wandering HALL circulation paths, and a collection of first responder memorials, Jefferson Square has the potential to serve as downtown’s premier civic space. JEFFERSON STREET

400 W. 400 W. 6TH STREET JUSTICE HALL OF JEFFERSON

LIBERTY STREET

JEFFERSON COUNTY ATTORNEY & LAW ARMORY PLACE ARMORY

LIBRARY METROSAFE CORRECTIONS

NORTH 15 LOCATION & CONTEXT

LOCATED IN THE HEART OF DOWNTOWN, JEFFERSON SQUARE IS WITHIN A 10-MINUTE WALK OF 47,000 EMPLOYEES AND MANY OF LOUISVILLE’S MOST PROMINENT DESTINATIONS. SURROUNDED BY GOVERNMENT USES, INCLUDING METRO HALL AND CITY HALL, JEFFERSON SQUARE OFTEN FUNCTIONS AS DOWNTOWN’S CENTRAL GATHERING SPACE AND PLAYS AN OUTSIZE ROLE IN LOUISVILLE’S CIVIC LIFE.

Though surrounded by civic buildings and uses, Jefferson Square’s location places it within a 5-MINUTE 10-MINUTE 10-minute walk of Louisville’s most famous WALK WALK attractions. These include 4th Street Live!, the Kentucky International Convention Center, the Kentucky Center for the Arts, the KFC Yum! 681 1,510 Center, and the various museums/hotels along BUSINESSES BUSINESSES West Main Street’s Museum Row. According to the Louisville Downtown Partnership, Downtown Louisville’s activity generators, the bulk of which are within this 10-minute walkshed, attract over 22,360 47,788 11 million visitors annually. Many of these visitors EMPLOYEES EMPLOYEES are staying in one of downtown’s 7,000 hotel rooms.

The square is already used by many of the nearby workers and residents in the area. Downtown 1,872 4,769 employers include Humana, Louisville Metro RESIDENTS RESIDENTS Government, and a wide array of over 1,510 businesses within a 10-minute walk. With a growing downtown population projected to reach 6,000 in 2019, there is a need for downtown to add green spaces and gathering areas. As such, Jefferson Square has the potential to become downtown’s center of gravity, and become a gathering spot for residents, visitors, and office workers.

4th Street Live! Humana Kentucky Intl. Convention Center 16 Ohio River

10-MINUTE WALK Clark Memorial Bridge Waterfront Park Waterfront Park Phase IV (Planned) The KFC Yum! Belvedere Center KY Center for the Arts Humana Museum Row Main Street Humana 5-MINUTE WALK

Market Street KY International Metro City Convention Center Hall Hall Jefferson Street Baxter Square Liberty Street

JEFFERSON SQUARE Fourth Omni Street Live! Old Walnut Hotel Street Park Cathedral of the Assumption Muhammad Ali Boulevard 9th Street 4th Street

6th Street Louisville Palace

Brown 17 NORTH Hotel Broadway SHADOW STUDY

DUE TO ITS DOWNTOWN LOCATION, JEFFERSON SQUARE IS SURROUNDED BY MID-RISE AND HIGH- RISE BUILDINGS. DEPENDING ON THE TIME OF YEAR, THE SQUARE CAN BE UNDER ABUNDANT SUNSHINE, OR BE COVERED BY THE SHADOWS OF NEARBY BUILDINGS. TO UNDERSTAND THE IMPACT OF THESE SHADOWS, THE PLANNING TEAM PERFORMED A SHADOW STUDY.

The shadow study, the results of which are shown in the following page, show the impact of nearby buildings on three times of year: Summer Solstice, Fall Equinox, and Winter Solstice. Each time of year was analyzed during three times of the day, capturing morning, afternoon, and early evening hours. The results of this study are detailed below:

Summer Solstice: During the summer months, the Square sees the most amount of sunshine overall, especially around noon. Morning and evening house experience an approximate 50% shadow coverage.

Fall Equinox: In September, morning and evening hours Jefferson Square is partly covered by shadows of nearby result in Jefferson Square being almost buildings (November 27 at 11:00 AM) completely covered by shadows of nearby buildings. Around noon, the Square remains under mostly sunshine.

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

18 SUMMER SOLSTICE FALL EQUINOX WINTER SOLSTICE JUNE 21 SEPTEMBER 21 DECEMBER 21

9:30 AM 9:30 AM 9:30 AM

12:00 PM 12:00 PM 12:00 PM

6:00 PM 6:00 PM 6:00 PM

19 HOW IT CURRENTLY FUNCTIONS

THE CURRENT STATE AND DESIGN OF JEFFERSON SQUARE DOES NOT ALLOW FOR THIS OPEN SPACE TO CAPITALIZE ON ITS PRIME LOCATION AND PROXIMITY TO MAJOR CIVIC ASSETS. AS SEEN IN THE DIAGRAMS TO THE RIGHT, THE CURRENT DESIGN MAKES THE PARK EXPERIENCING CONFUSING AND DISCONNECTED FROM ITS SURROUNDINGS.

CIRCULATION SITE FEATURES Circulation is primarily along pathways and The site originally contained a water feature, sidewalks that are indirect and inflexible. There is which is now nonfunctional and surrounded by not a recognizable hierarchy of circulation and the raised planter beds with seating areas. In the site is difficult to navigate. past, this water feature anchored the northern portion of the square, creating a visible gateway VIEWS into the site. Views into and out of the site are scattered. The site is surrounded by a catalogue of architectural MEMORIALS history and activity, but the site’s fragmented The two memorials currently in the park are configuration inhibits the views that are so unique poorly located, preventing them from properly to this site. Views are also blocked into the site showcasing the public servants they honor. by dense vegetation in raised planters, creating Though the square is already home to memorial safety and security issues. events, the current design results in a lack of functional gathering space for large crowds. This TREE CANOPY / VEGETATION results in disjointed crowds standing in spaces The existing coverage of “green” on the site with obstructed views of the event and or on provides an opportunity for an urban oasis in uneven and sometimes soggy surfaces. this civic district. However, the disconnected placement of green also inhibits programming and flexible space for community gathering. 1 2 EVENT / PROGRAM SPACE Spaces for events and programming for the community are limited. Individual spaces are devoted to certain events, but there are no spaces for large public events, or spaces for observation of activity within the space.

20 JEFFERSON ATTORNEYCOUNTY & LAW

LIBRARY

JEFFERSON400 W.

1 WEST JEFFERSON STREET

SOUTH 6TH STREET HALL OF JUSTICE

METRO HALL

1 FIREFIGHTERS’ MEMORIAL CITY HALL 2 POLICE MEMORIAL 21 NORTH EXISTING CONDITIONS INVENTORY

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

Various monuments ad The Firefighters memorial honors those dedications are scattered who have fallen in the line of duty, and is through the square. located on 6th Street.

Ramp access to 500 West Jefferson’s The service area for the 500 West parking garage divides the building and Jefferson Building creates a vacant its retail tenants from the square. facade facing the park.

22 A Christmas tree anchors the square during the Held in late November or early December, Light Up winter months, located over the water fountain. Louisville attracts a large crowd to the square.

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

The south side of the square lacks visibility New interactive Citypost into the park from Liberty Street. display on Jefferson Street.

The Brutalist-style Hall of Justice provides an Wooden picnic tables in grassy areas are interesting architectural vista on Jefferson Street. scattered through the square.

23 OPPORTUNITIES & CONSTRAINTS

500 W. Jefferson Building: Consider Parking Garage Entrance: Embrace views and access relationship with Jefferson Square, Ramp disrupts access, to surrounding buildings. The and mediate effects of service area to explore relocation or square is currently insulated better integrate with square. options for intervention from its urban context.

NORTH

On-Street parking along Views toward Metro Hall make Jefferson Busy intersection at Jefferson Jefferson. Consider this city Square a popular destination for protests/ and 6th Street, potential traffic- managed street for food gatherings. Opportunity to strengthen calming features may create a more trucks/staging for square. relationship to civic buildings. welcoming gateway.

24 Memorials buried Existing elevated platform connecting within site and to ground-level retail tenants of accessed through High visibility corners, despite 400. West Jefferson. Access feels confusing circulation obstructed views into the site disconnected by parking ramp. pattern due to dense vegetation

NORTH

Existing fountain does not function, Jefferson Street: Lack of interesting covered with wood. Community streetscape elements and street members expressed a desire for a trees. Opportunity to integrate an working fountain. upgraded streetscape with square spaces. 25 THE MASTER PLAN

26 THE VISION FOR JEFFERSON SQUARE

“GREAT CIVIC SPACES SERVE AS A STAGE FOR OUR PUBLIC LIVES. THEY ARE A SETTING WHERE SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC EXCHANGES TAKE PLACE, WHERE FRIENDS MEET AND CULTURES MIX.” - PROJECT FOR PUBLIC SPACES

“Civic” spaces differentiate themselves from TRADITIONAL PLAZA “Public” spaces by providing that space or a Civic | Urban | Historic | platform for individuals and groups to come Grand | Hard together and voice their opinion or concerns about their village, town, or city. Historically these squares were mostly hardscape spaces in the heart of the city and typically associated with civic and religious architecture. They served not only as spaces for civic gathering and protesting, but also as centers for celebration, commerce, and social interaction. GREEN SYSTEMS Downtown Louisville has experienced growth Nature | Ecology | and development in recent decades, often at the Sustainable | Soft expense of quality green space and tree canopy. Locked into the downtown grid of streets and pavement, Jefferson Square is one of the few downtown urban open spaces where visitors and patrons can observe and engage nature. These open spaces should not only be green in color, but also productive landscapes that not only reduce the urban heat island effect, but sustainably manage stormwater on-site, serve as pollinator landscapes, and serve as a display for native vegetation found throughout Louisville and the NEW PLAZA Ohio River corridor. Urban | Civic | Sustainable | Hybrid

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

28 PROJECT GOALS | Re-Introduce the Square

THERE ARE MANY DOWNTOWN LOUISVILLE RESIDENTS AND PASSERS-BY THAT DON’T REALIZE THE SIGNIFICANCE OF JEFFERSON SQUARE AS THE OUTDOOR CIVIC SPACE IN DOWNTOWN LOUISVILLE. THIS PROJECT PROMOTES AN INCLUSIVE PROCESS AND TRANSFORMATIVE DESIGN THAT NOT ONLY HONORS THE LEGACY OF THE SPACE BUT FREES IT FROM ITS CURRENT CONSTRAINTS AND EMBRACES THE DYNAMIC AMBITIONS THAT ARE BEING DESIRED OF THIS PUBLIC SQUARE. THIS PROJECT WILL ALSO PROMOTE THE IDENTITY, VISIBILITY, AND AWARENESS OF JEFFERSON SQUARE AND ACCESS TO NATURE AND PROGRAMS IN THE DOWNTOWN CONTEXT.

BE BOLD! BE INCLUSIVE Proclaim Jefferson Square as Sustainably Immediately embedded in the civic heart of Beautiful – Sustainability and Beauty are downtown Louisville, Jefferson Square has symbiotic in nature when planning and designing the unique potential to embrace not only an urban space with a diverse catalogue of the adjacent civic structures, but also be an users, events, and neighbors. Priorities need to integral destination for all individuals within the be established to “re-present” Jefferson Square community…an address for public concerns and by improving connectivity along the perimeter, to promote the quality of the community. removing barriers in favor of better circulation, and improving the visual and physical quality INSIDE-OUT / OUTSIDE-IN of open space that is currently underutilized in Develop a visionary plan that is captivating from its current state. This project will elevate the the outside as well as performs as an aperture significance of this space as civic, a memorial, to the unique surroundings. The architectural and one of Louisville’s premier downtown urban catalogue that surrounds the site is incredible and green spaces! should be celebrated from within.

PROMOTE A SENSE OF PLACE & AUTHENTICITY EXPAND THE HOURS OF OPERATION The square should not be a copy and paste of The project explores options for integral lighting best practices from across the globe. There is that not only provides a safe space in the a wealth of inspiration and provocation in the evenings and nights, but also transforms the heritage and future of Louisville. Let’s celebrate space into a dynamic and beautiful contribution to what is uniquely Louisville and raise the bar for the downtown night scene. This project provides expectations of what an urban open space can be options for lighting both within the square as in downtown Louisville. well as lighting of building facades that surround the space, expanding the volume of space and expressing the surrounding architecture.

29 DESIGN INTENT

THE TRANSFORMATIVE DESIGN FOR JEFFERSON SQUARE HONORS THE LEGACY OF THE SPACE AND RESOLVES ITS CURRENT CONSTRAINTS. THIS VISION EMBRACES NEEDS AND WANTS EXPRESSED BY STAKEHOLDERS AND THE COMMUNITY, AND CREATES A GATHERING SPACE DESIGNED TO MEET LOUISVILLE’S NEEDS.

CIRCULATION SITE FEATURES Rather than being relegated to perimeter The most distinctive feature in the new square sidewalks, circulation now happens through is a large flexible canopy structure. Using the square itself. The new circulation pattern is reflective materials, the canopy will become an clear and intuitive for the square’s users. Paths iconic downtown feature that both transforms transverse through the site and lead to inviting and blends with its surroundings. Located in the gathering areas, while creating new ways to move center of the new square is an interactive water through downtown. feature that will appeal to visitors of all ages, and can be turned on and off for various events. VIEWS & CANOPY The central gathering area and canopy are MEMORIALS designed to maximize views of two of downtown’s The proposed Memorial Garden will be a space most iconic civic buildings: Metro Hall and City for reflection and contemplation, in honor of Hall. Louisville’s fallen heroes. The garden may include a memorial wall honoring the names and TREE CANOPY / VEGETATION backgrounds of fallen officers and firefighters. Maintaining a robust tree canopy is of utmost This space can also accommodate the two importance to Louisville’s health. As such, this memorials currently on the square, creating a design places trees in locations where they can more inviting setting for these sculptures. thrive, while creating inviting shaded areas that do not obstruct views into the park.

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

30 JEFFERSON ATTORNEYCOUNTY & LAW

LIBRARY

JEFFERSON400 W. 2 1

WEST JEFFERSON STREET

HALL OF JUSTICE SOUTH 6TH STREET

METRO HALL

1 FIREFIGHTERS’ MEMORIAL CITY HALL 2 POLICE MEMORIAL 31 NORTH SITE PLAN

A PAVING MATERIALS D STORMWATER MANAGEMENT There are three primary pavement types found In an effort to minimize stormwater runoff into within the square redesign. The central gathering the already overcrowded downtown combined space in the center of the square will be paved sewer system, the renovation of Jefferson Square with a granite stone paver that will be durable, will install several drainage channels around beautiful, and timeless. The perimeter of the the perimeter of the square. Integrated into the square is intended to be a concrete sidewalk proposed planting beds, these rock lined drainage poured with the historic mix that is found features will provide an opportunity to slow the throughout downtown Louisville. The entrances runoff rate and provide water for plant material. or gateways to the central square will be granite cobbles for texture. E MEMORIAL WALL AND GARDEN This area of the square is designed as a special B LANDSCAPE PLANTINGS moment, honoring those that have fallen in the The lush landscape that surrounds the central line of duty. The Memorial Wall is intended as a gathering space and provides a buffer from the place for names, photos, and possibly stories of surrounding streets is intended to be composed the lives of those fallen. The Garden will serve as of native trees, shrubs, grasses and perennials the new location for the existing memorial statues that will provide color and seasonal interested surrounded by seasonal plant color. throughout the year. The removal of turf lawn from the square will reduce overall landscape F REFLECTION CANOPY maintenance. Designed as a multipurpose structure, the Reflection Canopy not only will provide shade C WATER FEATURE and shelter from the elements, but it will also This element was requested the most during participate as an evening movie screen, market engagement with the community. The design pavilion, art gallery, lighting feature, wayfinding places the water feature in the middle of the and signage element, and much more. The central gathering space to promote visibility and polished stainless-steel material will also reflect participation. The series of pop-up jets flush with the people, the vegetation, and the surrounding the pavement will not only animate the space architecture. throughout the day but has the flexibility to be shut off during events where additional paved area is needed for circulation and gathering. Lighting will also be integrated into the water feature for evening appeal.

32 METRO HALL

Jefferson Street

C 6th Street

D F E 500 WEST JEFFERSON TOWER

Liberty Street

NORTH 33 CANOPY

The placement and arching gesture of the The horizontal members of the canopy roof are Reflective Canopy provides more than shade for designed in a “V” shape to add strength to the the users of the square. It also operates as an structure, and to provide a distinctive reflective aperture by framing views of the surrounding quality to the surface. This “V” profile also architecture. The polished stainless-steel provides the opportunity to catch stormwater material provides a highly reflective surface and channel it to the stormwater features found CONCEPT DEVELOPMENT that will reflect the surrounding colorful throughout the square. vegetation, the architecture, and the people that enjoy the space. Placement of Lighting and AV equipment will be integrated into the support columns mimic a the overall design of the Reflective Canopy. As random placement of trees found Jefferson Square evolves from day to night, the throughout the Ohio River canopy will serve as a unique feature that will corridor. not only illuminate the space, but also provide entertainment and programming throughout the year.

CONCEPT DEVELOPMENT

REFLECTIVE MATERIALITY

LOUISVILLE JEFFERSON SQUARE REDESIGN CONCEPT DEVELOPMENT

EVOKE HISTORIC REFERENCES LOUISVILLE JEFFERSON SQUARE REDESIGN

LOUISVILLE JEFFERSON SQUARE REDESIGN

34 FOLD UP LANDSCAPE

The transformation of Jefferson Square providing more access from the street to the recommends large planting gestures around square. The redesign will place emphasis on the perimeter of the space while allowing for a lush landscape with a variety of native plant the center to be flexible and open for circulation, material for interest throughout the seasons. The gathering, and programming. Emerging from the updated planting plan will incorporate several surface, the planting beds are bordered by pre- species of shade trees to reduce the urban heat cast walls for seating with views of the central island effect. It will also incorporate layers of space, and wood evergreen trees and shrubs, flowering shrubs, footbridges over ornamental grasses, and seasonal perennials. stone-lined stormwater channels

LANDSCAPE BEDS WITH SEATING AREAS

RAISED GATHERING AREAS

SCULPTURAL LOUNGE SEATING 35 WATER FEATURE

Placed in the center of the square for visibility families during the hot summer months. The pop- and access, the interactive pop-up jet water up jet design allows for the water feature to be feature will be a destination for families during shut off during large gathering events to extend the spring, summer, and fall months. The dancing the square’s usable space. Integrated lighting will and splashing columns of water will activate animate the water feature during the evening and Jefferson Square throughout the day, provide night hours. white noise within the busy urban setting, and offer a cool destination for

INTERACTIVE WATER FEATURES FLEXIBLE OPERATION

36 STORMWATER FOLD DOWN

The redesigned Jefferson Square will incorporate This network of planting beds will collect surface a sustainable stormwater strategy intended to runoff from the surrounding pavement and the reduce and minimize the impact on the downtown runoff from the Reflective Canopy. The planting combined sewer system. The master plan beds will also serve as storage basins connected recommends introducing a series of connected through stone channels that line the bottom of planting beds around the perimeter of the square. each bed.

PERMEABLE PAVERS & TREE GRATES

STORMWATER BIO-SWALES

37 MEMORIAL WALL & GARDEN

The redesign of Jefferson Square will relocate fallen in the line of duty. The Memorial Wall the existing memorial statues to a prominent is intended as a place for names, photos, and and dedicated location within the overall square stories of the lives of those fallen. The Garden experience. The redesign also introduces a will serve as the new location for Memorial Wall designed to honor past and future the existing memorial statues fallen officers. This area of the square is designed surrounded by seasonal as a special moment, honoring those that have plant color.

MEMORIAL FALLEN HEROES GARDEN WALL PLAQUES

RELOCATED CONTEMPLATIVE & MEMORIAL REFLECTIVE SPACE

RELOCATED MEMORIAL

WATER FEATURE

38 MEMORIAL WALL & GARDEN

RELOCATED MEMORIAL

39 SIGNAGE & WAYFINDING

There are many stories to be shared in Jefferson of signage and graphic types that have served as Square including International Unity, River best practice and will be referenced to explore Connections, Civic Pride, and Local Heritage. final recommendations later in the project. The Jefferson Square will share these stories in a adjacent page illustrates a conceptual layout of variety of applications including environmental signage, artwork, memorials, and story panels. graphics, engraved pavement, story panels, and interpretive placemaking. Below are examples

40 METRO HALL

Jefferson Street

6th Street 500 WEST JEFFERSON TOWER

LEGEND

Identification Sign

Memorial

Interpretive Placemaking

Interpretive Story Panel

Regulatory Sign Liberty Street Potential location for Commissioned Artwork

NORTH 41 VIEW LOOKING SOUTHEAST

42 43 VIEW LOOKING SOUTHWEST

44 45 VIEW LOOKING NORTH

46 47 PLAN OF ACTION

48 How we will get there

THE FUTURE JEFFERSON SQUARE WILL BE DOWNTOWN’S URBAN LIVING ROOM - A PLACE DESIGNED FOR THE LOUISVILLE COMMUNITY TO COME TOGETHER AND ENJOY DOWNTOWN. THE REALIZATION OF THIS VISION WILL BE A COLLABORATIVE PROCESS BETWEEN LOUISVILLE METRO GOVERNMENT, DOWNTOWN BUSINESSES AND USERS, AND PROJECT STAKEHOLDERS.

This vision for Jefferson Square outlines a transformation from a fragmented and SCHEDULE FOR NEXT STEPS: underutilized green, to a dynamic and engaging downtown living room. This vision and the Stakeholder organization: improvements it includes have resulted from Louisville Metro, Louisville Downtown an intensive year-long master planning process Partnership, others as needed that identified near and long-term issues, 3 months reviewed and considered design alternatives, and Design Development established a community-driven design. 3 - 5 months Implementation of this vision can be achievable Construction Documents through a structured yet flexible design process. 4 - 6 months Community needs may change, priorities will be Includes: 4-8 week contingency for altered, and not all aspects of the design will be departmental reviews implemented as planned. It is important that this plan provides flexibility in the manner that the Bidding/procurement design for Jefferson Square is implemented. The 1.5 months sale of the former PNC Plaza tower, known as 500 West Jefferson, may affect implementation Construction depending on improvements to the building’s 12 months exterior spaces. As such, it is recommended to coordinate with this stakeholder to ensure the square redesign aligns with planned enhancements to the downtown tower.

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

49 IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGY

DEPENDING ON FUNDING AVAILABILITY, A FULL BUILD-OUT OF THE JEFFERSON SQUARE REDESIGN MAY REQUIRE A PHASED APPROACH. THE PROPOSED DESIGN AND ITS RECOMMENDED IMPROVEMENTS ALLOW FOR A PHASED IMPLEMENTATION, OUTLINED IN THIS PAGE.

INTERIM IMPROVEMENTS PHASE I IMPROVEMENTS To build momentum and excitement of the park re-design, the following interim projects are • Project mobilization and staging. recommended to be implemented immediately following this planning process: • Demolition of existing site, and site preparation/staging. • Continue to activate Jefferson Square with on-going programming, including lunchtime • Install project infrastructure for proposed concerts, food trucks, and special events. features including electrical, plumbing for water feature, stormwater management, and • Replace wooden picnic tables with movable foundations for canopy columns, seat walls, furnishings, including tables, chairs, and and other structures that may evolve during lounge seating. DD and CD design phases.

• Work with new owner of 500 West Jefferson • Construction/installation of paved areas, for potential programming opportunities, and planting beds, seating features, lighting, to coordinate improvements to the building, its signage/graphics. parking structure, and retail spaces. • Streetscape improvements to existing curb. • Develop a fundraising strategy to secure funding for project features, such as the PHASE II IMPROVEMENTS canopy structure, water feature, and memorial wall/garden. Consider sale of naming rights • Water Feature Installation. for prominent features, donor plaques, • Canopy Installation. memorial trees, and donor pavers. Partner with MSD to seek funding for stormwater • Bump-outs at following intersections: elements. Jefferson Street and 6th Street; Liberty Street and 6th Street; Liberty Street and Armory Place (will require further study to determine geometry and placement).

50 METRO HALL

PHASE II BUMP-OUTS AT INTERSECTIONS Jefferson Street

PHASE I SQUARE DESIGN

PHASE II WATER FEATURE

PHASE II CANOPY STRUCTURE 6th Street

500 WEST JEFFERSON TOWER

PHASE II BUMP-OUTS AT Liberty Street INTERSECTIONS

NORTH 51 MAINTENANCE & programming STRATEGY

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

MAINTENANCE STRATEGY PROGRAMMING STRATEGY

Regularly scheduled service and monitoring Although no formal agreement exists between of the grounds and facilities are essential to Louisville Metro and community organizations meet the goals and needs of visitors, to support for the on-going operations of Jefferson Square, programs and events, and to reduce liability risks. such an agreement should be developed to successfully transform the square into a The following Maintenance Strategy is intended downtown destination. Community Partners to provide a framework for developing, defining, (Trees Louisville, Fund for the Arts, Louisville and implementing standards for maintenance, Tourism, Louisville Food Truck Association) management, and operations for Jefferson may provide assistance for maintenance and Square. programming outside of Louisville Metro’s typical operations. These items include: • Louisville Metro is responsible for maintenance and capital improvements. • Ornamental/seasonal plantings.

• Louisville Downtown Partnership is responsible • Playscape structures (swings, hammocks, for programming and special events movable seating and tables, outdoor lounge coordination. areas)

• The Louisville Downtown Management District • Special park programming (movie nights, small (LDMD) is responsible for minor day-to-day nighttime events, lunchtime gatherings, food maintenance and additional site beautification truck festival, yoga on the square, farmer’s (landscaping of planting areas and planters). market)

• Trees Louisville should be utilized as a steward and advocate for trees in the square.

52 53 PROGRAMMING examples

Jefferson Square’s location surrounds it by civic of the 9-5 workday time frame. The proposed uses that add to the square’s prominence and design is able to host events of all types and sizes viability. However, this results in a lack of active during various times of year. This programming ground-level uses around the square that would will require coordination among downtown attract downtown visitors and non-governmental stakeholders and agencies. The following are workers. Consequently, programming for the examples of potential programming for Jefferson square will be crucial to attract crowds outside Square.

LUNCHTIME CONCERT Small concerts featuring local artists can act as a backdrop to a 50 - 100 Attendants lively lunchtime scene, without requiring a formal stage.

FARMER’S MARKET A farmer’s market could provide downtown workers, residents and 30 - 40 Vendors visitors with access to fresh and local food. 100 - 200 Attendants

54 Jefferson Square already hosts memorial events, though these often lack appropriate seating areas. The new square can Memorial EVENT accommodate large seated crowds in rows of movable chairs. 300 - 400 Attendants

Due to its location and nearby civic buildings, the square is a popular location for rallies and demonstrations of all sizes. The Public rally design’s large open space will continue to be home to these. 800 - 1,000 Attendants

Jefferson Square’s proposed central space is a perfect fit for large LIGHT UP LOUISVILLE events that attract thousands, such as Light Up Louisville 1000+ Attendants

55 ORDER OF MAGNITUDE COSTS

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

IMPROVEMENT COST

Streetscape: Includes sidewalks, granite curbs, bump-outs, lighting fixtures, and $440,000 A landscaped areas.

Courtyard: Includes paving, site furnishings, site lighting, landscaping (trees and $1,700,000 B tree grates), and utilities.

Landscaped Beds: Includes lighting, concrete seat walls, and landscaping $290,000 C (topsoil, turf and trees).

Water Feature: Includes feature walls, basin, pumps, piping, electrical $1,080,000 D connections, and lighting.

Drainage Features: Includes lighting, concrete seat walls, bridges, swales, and $850,000 E landscaping (topsoil, trees and seeding).

Memorial Wall, Garden and Deck: Includes lighting, memorial wall, wood deck, $420,000 F and landscaping (trees and tree grates).

G Shade Canopy: Includes concrete footings, uplighting, and canopy structure. $2,900,000

Total $7,680,000

Additional Opportunity I 500 West Jefferson Ramp/Plaza: Includes extending concrete bridge, replacing $375,700 railing, new concrete planter on bridge, landscaped areas, and bollard lighting.

56 METRO HALL

STREETSCAPE Jefferson Street

A LANDSCAPED BEDS

SHADE CANOPY C

G LANDSCAPED BEDS

RAMP TO GARAGE WATER FEATURE C

STREETSCAPE D I

A COURTYARD 6th Street

B E 500 WEST JEFFERSON F TOWER

DRAINAGE FEATURES MEMORIAL

A DRAINAGE FEATURES Liberty Street STREETSCAPE

NORTH 57 The future Jefferson square 58 Page intentionally left blank LOUISVILLE METRO GOVERNMENT FEBRUARY 2019