The Flagpole Plaza originally included a large grass area used as a public gathering space. However, shortly after the start of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, the area was repurposed for outdoor dining. During this time, the grass was removed and replaced with decomposed granite to better accommodate dining needs.

The City is now in the process of renovating this space to restore the public gathering area, retain opportunities for continued outdoor dining, improve landscaping, and add new lighting, while maintaining strong connections between the flagpole, the existing fountain, and the plaza. Key design elements include replacing the existing bluestone sidewalk areas with new stamped concrete, creating designated hardscaped outdoor dining areas, and restoring the public gathering space. The redesigned plaza will be fully ADA-compliant and accessible to all. Planned upgrades include enhanced lighting, featuring string lights to create a warm and inviting ambiance, as well as new landscaping. Additionally, advanced security cameras connected to the Police Department’s Real-Time Awareness Center will be installed to improve public safety at both Flagpole Plaza and Livermorium Plaza.

This project aims to enhance both the safety and aesthetics of a prominent city intersection, transforming it into a vibrant and functional space for the community.