Lawrenceburg Civic Park Lawrenceburg, Indiana
Services Provided
Urban Design
Landscape Architecture
People Involved
Jeffrey Pongonis
Andy Knight
Tony Roell
Lisl Kotheimer
Rachael Harkleroad
Awards
2021 International Downtown Association Downtown Achievement Award of Excellence
2019 Kentucky ASLA Honor Award
2019 Ohio Chapter ASLA Merit Award
A catalytic urban park paves the path for future downtown development
As the planning and design lead, MKSK worked with the City of Lawrenceburg on the revitalization of 2.5 acres in the heart of their downtown riverfront. From concept to construction, MKSK worked closely with City officials and stakeholders to develop a responsive program and engaging urban space. The conceptual design of this urban plaza integrates the surrounding cityscape into a catalytic destination for the community. Informed by a comprehensive community engagement process, the park vision serves the needs of the public and envisions redevelopment opportunities of the surrounding land parcels.
Design inspiration for the space is derived from the braiding waters of the Ohio River and the flowing soundwaves of the existing concert series that has reintroduced downtown to the surrounding neighborhoods.
Narrowed walkable streets are lined with patterned paving and plantings that create a permeable edge to the plaza, carving out space for viewing performances, picnicking, kite flying, and passive recreation. Amenities include a pavilion that integrates into the overall site design, a series of water features that transition from a sheeting table of water to a band of interactive pop up jets, perimeter cafes for dining and observing, playscape, food truck alley, event/accent lighting, and sculpted planters with integrated seatwalls. The park is expected to fill a critical need in the city’s existing public open space, promote development of the entertainment district, and become a regional destination as an outdoor entertainment venue.
