Building Renaissance Square

A public-private partnership
made this innovative
mixed-use public space
area possible.

Renaissance Square

A Great Public Space

The JRC, in partnership with Buffamante Whipple Buttafaro, P.C. (BWB), Krog Corporation, the Gebbie Foundation, the Chautauqua Region Community Foundation, the City of Jamestown and New York State, embarked on a public-private partnership to incorporate an innovative mixed use public space area called Renaissance Square.

Renaissance Square is a great public space in the West End District that aids in completing the Urban Design Plan's directive to "strengthen connections between each of the parts of the downtown to create a more cohesive place whose parts create a stronger and more unified whole." In addition, it assists in the continued evolution of the UDP's aim to create a greater experience in a lively, attractive and cohesive urban environment through the development of key goals including:

1) enhancing downtown's identity as an appealing environment – the design of every individual element from a sign to a large development or streetscape improvement should contribute to the urban experience;
2) establishing a well-connected riverfront as an integral part of the downtown experience; and
3) drawing more regional visitors and tourists downtown to experience the riverfront, cultural and educational attractions, restaurants, businesses and other amenities.

Renaissance Square creates an inviting space in downtown for residents and visitors to congregate and encourages more pedestrian traffic downtown.

In 2008, the JRC began working with various downtown stake-holders to begin planning Renaissance Square. JRC contracted with Habiterra to complete preliminary drawings, brokered a sub-lease agreement with the Krog Corporation—ensuring the space would be used strictly for public use—and raised $170,000 for the project. In June of 2009, the JRC contracted with Bloomquist's Landscaping to begin construction. Brigiotta's donated all of the landscaping materials for the project. The project, which includes crosswalk enhancements at Third and Lafayette Streets, is complete and ready for use.

Renaissance Square is an inviting downtown space for residents and visitors to congregate