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Trade Center master plan presented to council proposes two-deck parking strategy, green space and a convention hotel option
Summary
City and Trade Center Authority staff presented a master plan proposing a two-deck parking solution, new public green space and potential hotel development; the authority recommended the option that keeps the existing deck in service while adding a 5-story deck at the Marriott lot.
City staff and the Trade Center Authority presented a master plan on March 11 outlining an approach to relieve parking pressure around the Trade Center and to create new public green space, and a potential site for a convention hotel.
The consultant presentation described two scenarios the authority studied after a December/February parking analysis. Scenario A, which the Trade Center Authority recommended, would construct a five-story parking garage on the surface lot currently used by the Marriott and build a second smaller garage adjacent to the Trade Center. That approach keeps the existing municipal parking deck in service during construction and adds an elevated connector across the site to improve pedestrian flow into the Trade Center. Authority members and staff said keeping the existing deck in service during construction reduces the need for remote parking and eases event logistics.
Scenario B would replace the existing deck with a single larger structure adjacent to the Trade Center. The consultants said Scenario B would require a longer period of remote parking while the main deck is demolished and rebuilt, produce fewer entry/egress points for events and prolong construction-related traffic disruption.
The presentation also highlighted a proposal to add an outdoor performance/green space in front of the Trade Center and to reserve a riverfront parcel for a future hotel that could serve conventions. The consultants said the green space would offer a stage and seated area for outdoor events and help the Trade Center host more flexible, year-round programming.
Trade Center Authority members voted to support Scenario A and asked staff to advance design work that will include community input and collaboration with the historic district and neighbors. Councilors requested further design details and traffic modelling for the chosen scenario and encouraged transparent public engagement as the project proceeds.
Ending: Staff said the master plan is conceptual and that a final design and timeline would be developed with further study, public outreach and coordination with potential developers and the Trade Center Authority.
