HomeMy WebLinkAbout2019-08-09 email Loucks1
Minyard, Brian
From:rwloucks@gmail.com
Sent:Friday, August 09, 2019 4:23 PM
To:Carolyn Newbern
Cc:Minyard, Brian; Director Webb; Director Peck
Subject:Re: Arkansas Arts Center application
Carolyn you are brilliant thank you.
Sent from my iPhone
On Aug 9, 2019, at 3:21 PM, Carolyn Newbern <newberncl@att.net> wrote:
Mr. Minyard:
May I add comments regarding the application for Certificate of Appropriateness by the Arkansas Arts
Center? I am delighted with the overall design for renovation, including restoration of the original Ninth
Street entrance, creative reorganization of existing spaces, and the desire to open the building to
MacArthur Park. The MacArthur Park Group has followed each stage of development with great interest
and we appreciate interest in our opinions.
However, few concepts do concern me: sidewalk surfacing, lighting, overall relation of the new center
with the rest of the Park.
*The exposed aggregate surface to walkways presents mobility problems, which can be reduced if a
finer grit material is used. Joining new walkways with existing ones will present an aesthetic and
physical challenge.
*The juxtaposition of tall modern poles with multiple LED lights will conflict with the existing historic
lighting, particularly on the Crescent Drive and Parade Grounds. Both the intensity of light generated
and the style of fixtures should be compatible. They should provide guidance for lighting throughout
the entire Park.
This application states a desire for “creating new civic landscape environments that connect the Arts
Center to the surrounding Park and Community.” As someone who has worked with the MacArthur
Park Group for its thirteen years, including many projects to improve the quality of life for residents,
visitors, even dogs, I appreciate the unique attraction that the historic elements give to this first City
park. The reimagining of the Arkansas Arts Center can be the catalyst for the entire historic but vibrant
neighborhood. The entire park must be included in all stages of development.
Thank you and the Historic District Commissioners for your consideration.
Carolyn L. Newbern
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