The
Regional Transportation District is just months away from issuing a request for proposals to find an organization to manage the plazas on the east side of
Denver Union Station.
The plazas are designed for both passive use as well as programmed events, such as stage performances, festivals, vending carts and games.
"We engaged a group of experts and stakeholders to talk about what to do with the plazas," says Bill Sirois, senior manager of TOD and planning coordination for RTD’s FasTracks team. "The general consensus was people want to see it actively managed to establish a regular pattern of usage."
The
Downtown Denver Partnership has expressed interest in managing the plazas and could be the logical choice when the contract is awarded, Sirois says.
"Most everybody thought the partnership was the best because they already do downtown events," he says.
Some observers say that because the Downtown Denver Partnership already manages everything around
Union Station except for the plazas, it only makes sense for the programming contract be awarded to the organization, which also programs most of the other public spaces downtown.
"That space is another jewel in the collection of public spaces and parks in heart of downtown," says Tami Door. "It's critical that it's a safe, clean place and reflects the quality of the development that's taking place around it. We've long been committed to make sure that's what happens with that space."
The south plaza will include fountains that will be computer programed to allow for effects such as jets of water popping up in different shapes and timing patterns. The height of the water jets also will be adjustable to account for wind speed and other factors. A row of trees closer to the station will provide shade to restaurant patios.
Trees on the north plaza will shade the seat walls, planters and movable tables and chairs. The far end of the plaza, closest to the IMA Financial Building now under construction, will remain open to provide sunny space and clear sight lines to the pedestrian bridge and plaza over the commuter rail tracks.
Contact Confluence Denver Development News Editor Margaret Jackson with tips and leads for future stories at margaret@confluence-denver.com.
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