Parkways

Louisville Olmsted Parkways
Louisville, Kentucky

Since 1992, Heritage Landscapes has completed a dozen planning and implementation projects focusing on the preservation, character, use, and functionality of the Olmsted-designed parks and parkways in Louisville, Kentucky. In 2007, Heritage Landscapes worked with a multi-disciplinary team providing historic parkway character expertise on the Louisville Metro Parks Multi-Use Path System. The parkways of Louisville were conceptualized in the late 19th century as a system to link the three major parks—Shawnee Park to the west along the Ohio River, Cherokee Park to the east, and Iroquois Park to the south. The original 14-mile system was blocked at the center connection by railroads, and portions were not built out as planned.

The aim of the project was to provide a cohesive multi-use path system linking the Olmsted Parkways. The approach to the project integrated multiple values to include: incorporation of current needs; response to public participation; documentation of the historic as-built parkway system; and understanding of the Olmsted design principles that served as the basis for the parkways. Project recommendations guide the future development of shared-use paths and pedestrian connections throughout the Olmsted Parkways. Important objectives considered included: balancing modern and contemporary uses; consideration of historic precedent and design criteria; creating safe traffic patterns for vehicles, pedestrians, and bicyclists; and enhancing the quality of user experiences. Recommendations sought a combination of bike lanes on roads, 8-foot wide shared use paths, and pedestrian paths. Overall, the proposed multi-use system will incorporate 21.5 miles of shared-use paths, 37.5 miles of on-street bike lanes, 10 miles of both new and improved residential service drives, 3 miles of pedestrian walk upgrades, 18.75 miles of curb and drainage improvements, 130 safe intersections for all users, 3,500 new trees, and 0 lost parking spaces. The original design of the Olmsted Parkway System provided linear corridors with a park-like character that connected the parks and the neighborhoods of Louisville. The implementation of the proposed multi-use path system will reshape a system of scenic parkways in the character originally intended and provide valuable recreational opportunities. 

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