Public Square, a two-acre green space in the center of Wilkes-Barre, plays a vital role for the growing number of residents who seek outdoor communal space in the city. The improvements to Public Square’s performance area were honored at the Pennsylvania Downtown Center’s annual statewide Townie Awards gala, held as part of the recent Pennsylvania Downtown Conference. The awards recognize the commonwealth’s core communities and individuals for “creating and implementing projects, programs and events that exemplify the goals of PDC’s community revitalization mission.” On Friday, July 19, Wilkes-Barre Mayor George C. Brown and DCP Executive Director Larry Newman gathered at the performance area to recognize those who helped to make the project possible.

We were honored to work with the City of Wilkes-Barre and Diamond City Partnership to bring renewed energy and pride of place to the performing arts space on the southwest corner of the Square. In addition to necessary material improvements, including replacement of original pavers that had been damaged from years of use, the project team wanted to provide a flexible performance venue that could accommodate a range of public and private events, encouraging increased foot traffic and creating a billboard for the city. The new permanent performance venue functions as it was originally intended, and has hosted farmers markets, live music, and more since completion. Made of steel and wood, the 500 square-foot bandshell is inspired by the geometry of the existing truss backdrop and suspends from the structure. Integrated lighting provides a vibrant addition to the park at night, while the refurbished backdrop can support and display content in a high visibility location. Read more about the project below.