PROJECT PROGRESS
PROJECT PHASES
The Belvedere Timeline
PHASE 1: DESIGN
Overview:
The Design Phase advances the Belvedere redesign from vision to an implementation-ready plan. In collaboration with Louisville Metro Government, community stakeholders, Heatherwick Studio, KNBA Architects, PLC Management, and Whittenberg Construction, this phase delivers a cohesive, buildable design that strengthens the Belvedere as a premier civic space and connector between downtown and the Ohio River.
The work proceeds through Design Concepting, Schematic Design, and Design Development, balancing design excellence with feasibility, cost control, and long-term public value.
Design Scope:
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Design Concepting: Establishes the overall vision through site analysis, community engagement, and exploration of multiple design options rooted in Louisville’s cultural and riverfront context.
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Schematic Design: Defines spatial layout, program elements, circulation, accessibility, and infrastructure coordination.
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Design Development: Finalizes materials, systems, sustainability strategies, and cost alignment, positioning the project for construction.
Key Features
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Flexible public spaces for daily use and major events
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Improved connections to downtown, the waterfront, and surrounding entertainment and cultural attractions
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Integrated landscape and green infrastructure
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Accessible amenities including seating, shade, lighting, and wayfinding
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Design elements reflecting Louisville’s identity and riverfront heritage
Goals and Priorities
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Deliver a community-centered, world-class civic space
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Achieve design excellence in partnership with Heatherwick Studio & KNBA Architects
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Ensure equity, accessibility, and safety
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Incorporate sustainability and connectivity
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Maintain fiscal responsibility and constructability
Budget & Funding
Design costs are managed throughout the phase by PLC Management with regular estimating and scope alignment provided by Whittenberg Construction. The Design Phase establishes the documentation needed to support construction funding, including public investment, grants, and potential private or philanthropic partnerships.
Timeline
Design Phase: March 2024 – June 2026
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Design Concepting: Spring–Fall 2024
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Schematic Design: Fall 2024–Fall 2025
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Design Development: Fall 2025–June 2026
PHASE 2: DEVELOPMENT
Overview
Phase 2: Development advances the Belvedere redesign from approved design into construction and implementation. This phase focuses on preparing detailed construction documents, initiating early site work, and commencing full construction, while maintaining close coordination with Louisville Metro Government, regulatory agencies, contractors, and the community.
The Development Phase emphasizes precision, safety, and efficiency—ensuring the project is delivered in alignment with approved designs, budgets, and timelines, while minimizing disruption and maintaining public trust.
Development Scope
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Construction Documents: Preparation of detailed, permit-ready drawings and specifications, fully coordinated across architectural, landscape, structural, civil, and engineering disciplines. This stage supports permitting, bidding, and contractor procurement.
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Initial Demolition and Construction: Early site work, selective demolition, utility coordination, and enabling construction activities to prepare the site for full implementation while maintaining public safety and access where possible. This work will begin in the garage.
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Commence Full Construction: Execution of major construction activities, including structural, landscape, and public realm improvements, coordinated with city agencies and ongoing public communication.
Key Components
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Permit approvals and regulatory coordination
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Contractor bidding, procurement, and mobilization
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Site safety, access planning, and traffic coordination
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Utility relocation and infrastructure upgrades
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Quality control and construction oversight
Goals and Priorities
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Deliver the project in accordance with approved design intent
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Maintain safety, accessibility, and clear communication throughout construction
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Minimize disruption to surrounding areas and downtown operations
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Ensure schedule adherence and cost control
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Coordinate closely with Louisville Metro and regulatory agencies
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Support long-term durability and maintainability
Budget & Funding
Construction costs are managed through detailed estimating, bid review, and ongoing cost monitoring. Funding is anticipated to include a combination of public investment, grants, and other secured funding sources established during the Design Phase. Fiscal oversight remains a priority throughout construction.
Timeline
Development Phase: Begins June 2026
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Construction Documents: Early 2026–Mid 2026
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Initial Demolition and Construction: Mid 2026
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Full Construction: Late 2026 and beyond
PHASE 3: OPEN TO THE PUBLIC!
Opening Activities
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Community celebrations, performances, and public events
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Cultural programming highlighting local artists, musicians, and organizations
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Family-friendly activities and opportunities to explore the new spaces
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Public acknowledgments of community members, partners, and project contributors
What the Community Can Expect
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A fully accessible, reimagined public space open to everyone
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New places to gather, relax, celebrate, and connect
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Improved access between downtown, the waterfront, and surrounding entertainment and cultural attractions
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A space designed to host everyday moments and citywide milestones
Goals and Spirit
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Celebrate Louisville’s people, culture, and riverfront identity
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Welcome residents back to a transformed Belvedere
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Recognize the community’s role in shaping the project
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Launch a space designed to evolve with the city for generations
Timeline
Grand Opening: 2030
The Belvedere reopens with a series of public events and celebrations, inviting the entire community to experience, enjoy, and claim the space as their own.
Previous Public Community Sessions
