Ideas Sought for New Green Space in Downtown Little Rock

An aerial photo illustration showing changes to Interstate 30 in downtown Little Rock. The area in green will become a park.

The nonprofit StudioMAIN has announced a design competition for a 20-acre open space in downtown Little Rock, an area being cleared as part of the state’s project to widen and reconstruct Interstate 30.

The volunteer group of architects and community leaders is seeking ideas that improve pedestrian connectivity, provide space for a variety of programming and foster economic development. 

The Department of Transportation is removing the interstate’s spiral on and off-ramps, along with a four-block interchange between Second and Third streets, as part of the 30 Crossing project. It’s turning the property over to the City of Little Rock as green space to be converted into a park.

StudioMAIN said the space provides a “once-in-a-generation opportunity” for the community to help shape downtown’s future. The property is located in the heart of the River Market District near the Clinton Presidential Center, Main Library, Museum of Discovery and a number of businesses and residential buildings.

“This is an opportunity to share your big ideas for one of the most visible and heavily traveled areas in all of Arkansas,” the nonprofit said in a news release.

In addition to green space, the group is asking participants to think about how to use the shaded area underneath the interstate.

The competition has three categories: professional, public and student. There’s a $1,500 prize for the professional and public categories, and a $750 prize for the public category.

StudioMAIN is encouraging anyone who is interested in sharing their ideas to participate. Individual and group submissions are being accepted. 

The winners will be announced Aug. 12.