Plans announced for public art pedestrian walkway to connect Colorado Capitol to nearby park
Gov. Jared Polis announced plans Friday for a pedestrian walkway that will connect the Colorado State Capitol to Lincoln Veterans Memorial Park.
DENVER (KDVR)—Gov. Jared Polis announced on Friday plans to build a pedestrian walkway connecting the Colorado State Capitol to Lincoln Veterans Memorial Park.
The Colorado 150 Pedestrian Walkway will not only serve as a safe passageway for pedestrians, but it will be a "functional piece of public art" that tells the story of the Centennial State, according to a press release from the governor's office.
The walkway will go over Lincoln Street connecting the State Capitol and Lincoln Veterans Memorial Park, which is between the Capitol and Civic Center Park.
The walkway comes as part of a public-private partnership with the Governor's Office, the P3 Office at the Colorado Department of Personnel and Administration and History Colorado. The partnership, according to the press release, is an initiative aiming to re-energize the Civic Center area. Other projects in the initiative include renovations to Denver Central Library, Denver Art Museum upgrades, the new Populus Hotel, the future 5280 Trail, Greek Theater and Central Promenade enhancements and more.
The P3 Office contracted Chicago-based design firm Studio Gang to work with Denver partner firms to bring local artists and businesses forward to help narrate the state's story.
“As we get closer to Colorado's 150th birthday, we continue working to make Colorado the best place to live, work and play. What better way to celebrate this milestone than with a walkable art experience that highlights our state's history and future, while also increasing pedestrian safety and walkability. I look forward to seeing this amazing walkway come to life and create an exceptional experience for Coloradans and visitors alike,” Polis said in the release.
The walkway will be funded by public and private donations, according to the release. The Governor's Office said the state has invested $1.5 million for concept, design and community engagement as well as a public bid process for construction, which will happen in the spring.
The Governor's Office said it will work on developing a plan for the walkway in the coming weeks. In the meantime, the public is invited to participate in an online survey and share stories or offer suggestions of what cultural and industry stories should be included in the walkway.
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