FAQs

We've heard from community members that they want more public gathering spaces Downtown. Now that the new East Rosemary Parking Deck is open across the street, we recognize that parking may no longer be the best use for this space.

Tactical Urbanism is a low-cost and temporary way to test how a public gathering space can be created. It’s a real-time test to see how community members use the space before investing money into a more permanent design.

Communities worldwide use this concept, including:

• Indianapolis: Tactical urbanism leading to long-term changes in Indy | Modern Cities
• Charlotte: City of Charlotte Public Spaces - City of Charlotte

We won’t know until the design concept is finalized. Examples of physical changes that might help transition the space are seating options, recreational/activity areas, landscaping, shade, and grass/turf. This project is designed to be an experiment and won’t be permanent. The initial project budget and community priorities discovered through engagement will guide what’s installed.  

We anticipate implementing changes by the beginning of Summer 2025. We’ll provide updates as this project progresses and when a clear “open date” is set.

There isn’t a set testing period right now. The timeline is influenced by how long it’ll take to find and get the selected physical items. We want to make sure all users of Downtown can use the pilot space and offer feedback.

There’ll be many opportunities for the public to provide comment once the temporary space has been installed. This is a “learning by doing” process, giving the community the chance to try out the space, and give input on what is working or what needs improvement. The space will be designed with flexibility in mind, so the community can help guide changes.