Downtown Louisville’s fourth CitySpot transforms PNC Tower plaza
LOUISVILLE, Ky. (August 27, 2025) – Louisville Downtown Partnership (LDP) today unveiled its newest CitySpot in collaboration with the PNC Foundation, bringing a playful, new community space to Downtown Louisville. Located on the north plaza of PNC Tower at 5th and Main streets, the revitalized area now features giant swings, enhanced landscaping and lighting, and sculptural bike racks.
The PNC Tower CitySpot converts an oversized and under-programmed urban space into an inviting destination that encourages social interaction and strengthens Downtown’s sense of community.
“This CitySpot perfectly captures what we’re trying to achieve with the program – creating uniquely designed opportunities for people of all ages to experience unexpected moments wherever they are in Downtown,” said Rebecca Fleischaker, executive director of LDP. “Reimagining spaces like this makes Downtown a place where people want to spend time, not just pass through.”
The new CitySpot features two larger-than-life swings designed by Gehl Architects firm, which also designed “The Porch at 30th Street Station” in Philadelphia’s University City District. The never-before-seen Louisville adaptation was modified and fabricated by Bill Curran Design and features brightly colored swings with two individual seats per swing. The space also includes two bike rack sculptures by Louisville artists Jen Pellerin and Russell S. Mills, blending functionality with artistic expression.
“The new CitySpot at PNC Tower is a perfect example of how we’re rethinking public space in Louisville – not just as places to move through, but as places to gather and connect,” said Louisville Mayor Craig Greenberg. “Projects like this bring energy and life to our Downtown while highlighting what makes our city special. I’m grateful to the Louisville Downtown Partnership, the PNC Foundation, and all the partners who helped bring this to life for our residents, workers, and visitors.”
The transformation of the PNC Tower CitySpot was designed by Gresham Smith and LDP, and was made possible through a grant from the PNC Foundation, as well as the generous support of Louisville Metro Council District 4, Gresham Smith, Hardscuffle Inc., the PNC Tower ownership group, Doug Owen, JLL, and LDP.
“As the largest bank in Louisville, PNC is committed to supporting the economic health of Downtown, the businesses that serve this important district and those who work and live here,” said Kristen Byrd, PNC regional president for Kentucky. “All of us at PNC are excited to help introduce the PNC Tower CitySpot, a community resource designed to add vibrancy to our Downtown core.”
The reimagined space also incorporates enhanced lighting, landscaping, and refreshed flowerbeds provided by the PNC Tower ownership group. The new, color-changing LED lighting creates an inviting atmosphere, allowing the plaza to be a vibrant spot into evening hours. Additionally, the refreshed flowerbeds introduce seasonal color and natural elements to the space.
“The owners of PNC Tower are so proud to partner with LDP, the City of Louisville, the PNC Foundation, and all partners on this exciting joint venture,” said Melanie Miller, General Manager of PNC Tower. “The addition of swings and other community features create a welcoming family-friendly space and highlights our shared commitment to showcasing the vibrancy and livability of Downtown Louisville for everyone.”
The CitySpot program was developed by the Bingham Fellows Class of 2022 and aims to convert underutilized urban spaces into welcoming, pedestrian-friendly environments that promote social interaction and community engagement. Other CitySpot sites include the JPMorganChase CitySpot near the corner of 4th and Jefferson streets, the Metro Hall CitySpot at the corner of 5th and Jefferson, and the Bark Park on 4th Street north of The Brown Hotel.
For companies and organizations interested in sponsoring a CitySpot, please visit louisvilledowntown.org/cityspots or contact LDP at (502) 584 – 6000.
For photos of the new CitySpot, click here.