Future of Waterfront Park

[urbanlife]

I didn't want to address anyone specifically but wanted to give my input to this to the group. I think the park as it is works but could use some updating and modernizing.

Being an event space makes it a draw for people to come into downtown and is an important feature. This is where I question the need for a grass lawn in the section that events take place because it seems like it is an uphill battle every year to get the space back to being green just to have it trampled again. Having the ground be pavers or pavement of some sort from Salmon to Oak would make the space easier to manage and maintain. North of Oak can be lawn for people to use and enjoy year round.

Adding more public art would also be a great idea, especially if it is very Portland type art.

Rethinking sitting and lounging in the park is another thing that can be addressed through architecture. The High Line in NYC is a great example of this with how it creates unique lounging experiences through architecture and has modern architecture designed seats and benches throughout the park.

Utilize the space underneath the Hawthorne and Morrison Bridges with popup buildings that can house businesses such as cafes and artisan shops. Have it almost feel like a taste of Saturday Market everyday. Having popup cafes would create seating zones around each bridge and give people even more reasons to sit and stay in the park.

Rethinking the South Hawthorne Park is also another opportunity to rethink the structure of the grassy bowl and turn it into an event space ampitheater like space with a floating stage for concerts and plays to be scheduled throughout the warm season, and maybe even during the cooler times. This space could either be used for free events or a pay to enter space that would create some sort of revenue as well as a consistent events calendar for people to enjoy.