Welcome to the longest summer

Dear Louisville,

Did you know that the longest summer has just begun? This year, Memorial Day is as early as possible and Labor Day is as late as possible, giving us a few more days to enjoy the dog days of summer.

Last month we talked about all the Belvedere is going to be. We discussed plans and goals for a totally reimagined space. While we are looking forward to bringing that vision to life, we want to remind you that the Belvedere is still open and available for use.

One of the most common requests we hear is increased shade. We get it — the Belvedere has a lot of concrete and hard surfaces and feels very exposed, especially on the overlook. And while it is very hot at times, there is a surprising amount of beauty there now.

I took a walk today and loved seeing all the pollinator plants in bloom and even spotted a tree I have never seen before — do you know what it is? Read to the end for the answer.

Whether you are a downtown employee looking for a good place to take a lunch break or to stretch your legs, or you're exploring our waterfront and looking for a spectacular view of the river and bridges, the Belvedere welcomes you. As the weather warms up and summer events and festivals kick off, take advantage of the Belvedere as a stop on your summer bucket list. Maybe you will spot a tree or plant you've never seen before, too!

Your feedback has been shaping this process every step of the way, and that doesn't stop now. Throughout the summer, we still want to hear from you — through the Social Pinpoint map, where you can drop ideas directly onto the site plan by zone, and a community survey about the kinds of events, amenities, and activities you'd like to see.

The best version of this space is one we create together. Thank you for being part of it — now go enjoy the longest summer ever!

—Layla George, Project Executive

P.S. The beautiful tree is a Weeping Katsura. Check it out next time you are down there!

Project Update

Last month, Mayor Craig Greenberg announced his proposed budget, which includes $15 million for repairs to the garage and the reimagination of the Belvedere. With much of the public funding in place, we are on track to begin work this fall.

We're currently in the design development phase, working alongside Heatherwick Studio, KNBA Architects, and Louisville Metro Government to take this project from vision to a real, buildable plan. The final design reveal is currently on track for August 2026 — stay tuned for a public event where you can speak to the designers and learn more.

An Aspirational Look at Similar Projects: Discovery Green, Houston, TX

Last summer I took a road trip to visit other urban parks to see what worked and what didn't. One of the standouts was Discovery Green in downtown Houston. Situated above a parking garage just like the Belvedere, the park was bursting with activity. Much like our vision for the Belvedere, it doesn't exist for one purpose alone — it provides space for opportunities of all types, including fitness classes, group meeting space, food vendors, art exhibits, play spaces for children and dogs, and even a small body of water for kayaking and boating. This park is thoughtfully designed and beautifully executed, providing us with a real-world example of how greenspace in urban settings can operate. I am excited to be presenting at the City Parks Alliance conference this month with their CEO, Kathryn Lott, on what makes a vibrant city park successful.

If you'd like to take a look at Discovery Green, visit discoverygreen.com.

Feedback Reflections: Safety

Safety is a common theme in the feedback we've received. Our plan is to have great lighting, employ ambassadors to patrol the park and garage during the day, have security overnight, and design with safety in mind.

Can you think of a public space where you felt very safe?

Please email hello@louisvillebelvedere.com or fill out the survey and tell us about the park and your experience. There may be lessons we can learn from other public spaces that are doing a great job.

Thanks for following along. And remember, Layla George is happy to speak to any group that wants to learn more about the Belvedere — whether that's a neighborhood association, civic organization, or community gathering. Just reach out and we will come to you.