Libeskind's proposal would transform Civic Center Park

Mary Voelz Chandler, Rocky Mountain News

Published August 30, 2006 at midnight

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A central water plaza shaped like a bowtie, an "iconic" light and water tower and a swooping bridge that sails over the intersection of Broadway and Colfax Avenue highlighted Daniel Libeskind's proposals to revive Civic Center.

The proposals, announced by the architect at a Wednesday press conference, were funded by the Civic Center Conservancy, which hired Libeskind last fall for about $75,000 to come up with ideas that could bring people into the park. He created a master plan for various structures and elements, based on a plan for Civic Center adopted by the city last year.

There is no price tag yet for the project, said Mayor John Hickenlooper during a press conference at the Colorado Convention Center. A series of public meetings will be held this fall, culminating in a report in Jnauary by parks and recreation manager Kim Bailey to the parks advisory committee.

Major elements in the Libeskind's proposal include:

The "icon," a 72-foot-tall light and water feature anchoring a new round plaza.

The central water plaza, about 6 inches deep and capable of being drained for festivals or used as an ice skating rink.

A civic promenade that forms a tangible east-west axis between the City and County Building and the State Capitol.

A curved bridge that would lead pedestrians over Broadway and Colfax Avenue, arcing from the roof of the Civic Center Station into the park.

A crystalline cultural pavilion just to the west of Broadway that could be used for events.

A cover for the Greek Theater to shield patrons at performances.

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