Paresi Study: Town Green and Amphitheatre

Compared to other municipalities, Havre de Grace isn't wanting for park space.

There's plenty of park land either in city limits or just outside of town, allowing residents chances to relax, recreate and escape.

But what about a functional green space in the center of town?

Surrounded by the shops and restaurants that make the city's downtown arts and entertainment district such an attraction, a "town green" could serve as a source of entertainment to supplement existing business.

The Paresi Design Studio's 1997 study proposed the site at the southeastern corner of St. John and Green Streets—currently the home to the bank—be used for a town green with a natural amphitheatre.

Are you a fan of Patch on Facebook? Join the 2,300-plus getting their news updates on our Facebook page. Become a fan today!

This is the eighth post in a series of articles refreshing the visions of the Paresi Design Studio's "Urban Design and Waterfront Study," which was completed in February 1997.

The property—and the adjoining parcel that was once home to a chiropractor's office—slopes from the intersection of St. John, Green and Washington streets toward the .

It has a view of the river, but residential buildings obscure large portions of the shoreline.

The proposed town green would be contoured, per the recommendations, to provide for an amphitheatre, which would focus upon a removable stage.

The project would also entail streetscape improvements— at the five-way intersection—and new landscaping and a town clock at "Rochambeau Square."

Another segment of the proposal recommended a "mixed-use development opportunity" on the opposing side of Green Street.

The study outlined the benefits of the proposal, including attracting downtown-oriented events, improving neighboring real estate value, and providing a central landmark to the downtown community.

TELL US: What do you think of a town green/amphitheatre concept? Would it make sense for Havre de Grace? Leave a comment.