The Plaza lives at the core of Downtown, and was intended to reclaim it. Sadly, the effort failed—not, we believe, because of the architecture but because of a management style unequal to the bold design

Peavey faces the challenges of all sunken plazas: their social life is not readily on display. When it is not programmed, the strength of its design alone is not sufficient to overcome the harshness of its features nor the complexity of its multiple levels. Clear paths and attractions must be developed to lure pedestrians in. 

When busy people fail to patronize a park, idlers move in. An encampment like this one suggests that no one is in charge and anything might happen.

There is plenty of evidence that higher levels of planned activity can draw visitors to a park’s lower levels. Concessions, performances, areas for dining and games can create a buzz that echoes throughout the neighborhood.