Downtown Mall: Difference between revisions

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[[Image:DowntownMall.jpg|right|350px]]
[[Image:DowntownMall.jpg|right|350px]]


Charlottesville's Downtown Mall is one of the centerpieces of [[Charlottesville]]. Created in the 1970's and open to the public on July 3, 1976, the pedestrian walkway has become a tourist destination as well as a defining element of Charlottesville's civic culture. It is bordered on the west end by the [[Omni Hotel]], and on the east end by the [[Charlottesville Pavilion]].
Charlottesville's Downtown Mall is one of the centerpieces of [[Charlottesville]]. Created in the 1970's and open to the public on [[July 3]], [[1976]], the pedestrian walkway has become a tourist destination as well as a defining element of Charlottesville's civic culture. It is bordered on the west end by the [[Omni Hotel]], and on the east end by the [[Charlottesville Pavilion]].


==History==
==History==
The mall was created as a way to revitalize the city's central core. City political and business leaders were concerned that the downtown area was declining due to retail developments such as the [[Barracks Road Shopping Center]], which was growing at a much faster rate than downtown. <ref>{{cite web|title=Charlottesville Mall Works for Downtown|url=http://news.google.com/newspapers?id=Ye0QAAAAIBAJ&sjid=F4wDAAAAIBAJ&pg=4507%2C1962707|author=Kathleen Brunet|work=News Article|publisher=Fredericksburg Free-Lance Star|location=Fredericksburg, Virginia|publishdate=November 11, 1986|accessdate=January 2, 2017 via Google newspaper archive}}</ref>
The mall was created as a way to revitalize the city's central core. City political and business leaders were concerned that the downtown area was declining due to retail developments such as the [[Barracks Road Shopping Center]], which was growing at a much faster rate than downtown. <ref>{{cite web|title=Charlottesville Mall Works for Downtown|url=http://news.google.com/newspapers?id=Ye0QAAAAIBAJ&sjid=F4wDAAAAIBAJ&pg=4507%2C1962707|author=Kathleen Brunet|work=News Article|publisher=Fredericksburg Free-Lance Star|location=Fredericksburg, Virginia|publishdate=November 11, 1986|accessdate=January 2, 2017 via Google newspaper archive}}</ref>


Its origins date back to a recommendation made in late October 1959 by a subcommittee of the [[Charlottesville Regional Chamber of Commerce|Chamber of Commerce]]. The Parking and Traffic Committee called for a study of removing pavement on East Main Street and restricting traffic to pedestrians.  <ref>{{cite-progress-lindsay|title=Study of Main Street Mall Proposed by Chamber Unit|url=http://search.lib.virginia.edu/catalog/uva-lib:2733760/view#openLayer/uva-lib:2733779/4546/4201.5/3/1/0|author=Staff Reports|pageno=19|printdate=October 29, 1959|publishdate=October 29, 1959|accessdate=January 2, 2017 from University of Virginia Library}}</ref>
Its origins date back to a recommendation made in late October [[1959]] by a subcommittee of the [[Charlottesville Regional Chamber of Commerce|Chamber of Commerce]]. The Parking and Traffic Committee called for a study of removing pavement on East Main Street and restricting traffic to pedestrians.  <ref>{{cite-progress-lindsay|title=Study of Main Street Mall Proposed by Chamber Unit|url=http://search.lib.virginia.edu/catalog/uva-lib:2733760/view#openLayer/uva-lib:2733779/4546/4201.5/3/1/0|author=Staff Reports|pageno=19|printdate=October 29, 1959|publishdate=October 29, 1959|accessdate=January 2, 2017 from University of Virginia Library}}</ref>


An organization called the [[Central City Commission]] was formed to explore ways to attract more people back downtown. The commission and City Council worked with the firm [[Lawrence Halprin & Associates]] to develop plans for what would become the mall. Council voted 2-0 to approve the plans on March 18, 1974. <ref>{{cite web|title=Mall a Reality for Downtown|url=http://news.google.com/newspapers?id=OKIcAAAAIBAJ&sjid=4GgEAAAAIBAJ&pg=6138%2C3276499|author=Dana Gumb|work=News Article|publisher=Cavalier Daily|location=|publishdate=March 27, 1974|accessdate=January 2, 2017 via Google newspaper archive}}</ref> Three members of Council had to recuse themselves because opponents of the project alleged they had a conflict of interest. <ref>{{cite web|title=Former Councilors Share Memories of Early Days of Downtown Mall|url=https://www.cvilletomorrow.org/articles/former-councilors-share-memories-of-early-days-of/|author=Sean Tubbs and Brian Wheeler|work=|publisher=Charlottesville Tomorrow|location=|publishdate=April 13, 2010|accessdate=January 2, 2017}}</ref>
An organization called the [[Central City Commission]] was formed to explore ways to attract more people back downtown. The commission and City Council worked with the firm [[Lawrence Halprin & Associates]] to develop plans for what would become the mall. Council voted 2-0 to approve the plans on [[March 18]], [[1974]]. <ref>{{cite web|title=Mall a Reality for Downtown|url=http://news.google.com/newspapers?id=OKIcAAAAIBAJ&sjid=4GgEAAAAIBAJ&pg=6138%2C3276499|author=Dana Gumb|work=News Article|publisher=Cavalier Daily|location=|publishdate=March 27, 1974|accessdate=January 2, 2017 via Google newspaper archive}}</ref> Three members of Council had to recuse themselves because opponents of the project alleged they had a conflict of interest. <ref>{{cite web|title=Former Councilors Share Memories of Early Days of Downtown Mall|url=https://www.cvilletomorrow.org/articles/former-councilors-share-memories-of-early-days-of/|author=Sean Tubbs and Brian Wheeler|work=|publisher=Charlottesville Tomorrow|location=|publishdate=April 13, 2010|accessdate=January 2, 2017}}</ref>


There was significant initial opposition to the mall project, with it described as "a boondoggle, a $2 million mistake, [and] a gift to the ungrateful merchants of Main Street.<ref>{{cite-progress|title=Physical Growth, Social Strain Mark City's Year|url=|author=Peter Bacque|pageno=D1|printdate=January 4, 1976|publishdate=|accessdate=|cturl=}}</ref>" Construction of the mall began on December 26, 1974. <ref>{{cite-progress-worrell|title=The Seventies: Central Virginia Ends Decade of Joy and Tragedy|url=|author=Doug Kamholz|pageno=A6|printdate=January 1, 1980|publishdate=January 1, 1980|accessdate=June 27, 2015}}</ref>
There was significant initial opposition to the mall project, with it described as "a boondoggle, a $2 million mistake, [and] a gift to the ungrateful merchants of Main Street.<ref>{{cite-progress|title=Physical Growth, Social Strain Mark City's Year|url=|author=Peter Bacque|pageno=D1|printdate=January 4, 1976|publishdate=|accessdate=|cturl=}}</ref>" Construction of the mall began on December 26, 1974. <ref>{{cite-progress-worrell|title=The Seventies: Central Virginia Ends Decade of Joy and Tragedy|url=|author=Doug Kamholz|pageno=A6|printdate=January 1, 1980|publishdate=January 1, 1980|accessdate=June 27, 2015}}</ref>
The first sidewalk cafe was at [[The Muse]], a restaurant owned by [[George Cason]] and [[Richard Cason]]. City Council approved a special use permit on [[June 2]], [[1980]]. This provided a template for future requests. <ref>{{minutes-citycouncil|when=May 13, 1980|id=157302}}</ref> <ref>{{minutes-citycouncil|when=June 2, 1980|id=157303}}</ref>


==Concerns==
==Concerns==
On several occasions including April 2003, Council has discussed whether rules could be set regarding panhandling. <ref>{{minutes-citycouncil|when=April 21, 2003|id=195916}}</ref>
On several occasions including April [[2003]], Council has discussed whether rules could be set regarding panhandling. <ref>{{minutes-citycouncil|when=April 21, 2003|id=195916}}</ref>


In late May 2018, Council voted 3-2 to spend $100,000 to study ways to improve safety at the two vehicular crossings. <ref>{{cite web|title=Charlottesville City Council OKs $100,000 for Downtown Mall risk and threat assessment|url=http://www.dailyprogress.com/news/local/city/charlottesville-city-council-oks-for-downtown-mall-risk-and-threat/article_3ae89e32-5e1e-11e8-9401-67970f801a56.html|author=Chris Suarez|work=News Article|publisher=Daily Progress|location=|publishdate=May 22, 2018|accessdate=May 28, 2018}}</ref>
In late May 2018, Council voted 3-2 to spend $100,000 to study ways to improve safety at the two vehicular crossings. <ref>{{cite web|title=Charlottesville City Council OKs $100,000 for Downtown Mall risk and threat assessment|url=http://www.dailyprogress.com/news/local/city/charlottesville-city-council-oks-for-downtown-mall-risk-and-threat/article_3ae89e32-5e1e-11e8-9401-67970f801a56.html|author=Chris Suarez|work=News Article|publisher=Daily Progress|location=|publishdate=May 22, 2018|accessdate=May 28, 2018}}</ref>
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==Major Downtown Mall developments==
==Major Downtown Mall developments==
===1959===
===1959===
*[[October 29]] &ndash; The [[Charlottesville-Albemarle Chamber of Commerce]] recommends a study on turning downtown’s [[Main Street]] into a mall restricted to pedestrians.<ref>{{cite web|title=Timeline: Major Downtown Mall developments|url=https://dailyprogress.com/news/local/timeline-major-downtown-mall-developments/article_6b7beb14-4177-11e6-b528-1f0baf6c1346.html|work=News Article|publisher=The Daily Progress|pageno=|author=Staff reports|printdate= July 3, 2016|publishdate=|accessdate=September 19, 2020}}</ref>
*[[October 29]] &ndash; The [[Charlottesville-Albemarle Chamber of Commerce]] recommends a study on turning downtown’s [[Main Street]] into a mall restricted to pedestrians.<ref name="dp-timeline">{{cite web|title=Timeline: Major Downtown Mall developments|url=https://dailyprogress.com/news/local/timeline-major-downtown-mall-developments/article_6b7beb14-4177-11e6-b528-1f0baf6c1346.html|work=News Article|publisher=The Daily Progress|pageno=|author=Staff reports|printdate= July 3, 2016|publishdate=|accessdate=September 19, 2020}}</ref>
===1970===
===1970===
*[[December]] &ndash; [[Downtown Charlottesville Inc.]] presents the mall idea to the [[City Council]]. <ref>{{cite web|title=Timeline: Major Downtown Mall developments|url=https://dailyprogress.com/news/local/timeline-major-downtown-mall-developments/article_6b7beb14-4177-11e6-b528-1f0baf6c1346.html|work=News Article|publisher=The Daily Progress|pageno=|author=Staff reports|printdate= July 3, 2016|publishdate=|accessdate=September 19, 2020}}</ref>
*[[December]] &ndash; [[Downtown Charlottesville Inc.]] presents the mall idea to the [[City Council]]. <ref name="dp-timeline" />
===1971===
===1971===
*[[April 13]] &ndash; In an effort to sway public opinion, the city holds ''Mall Day'' to provide a glimpse of life with a pedestrian mall.<ref>{{cite web|title=Timeline: Major Downtown Mall developments|url=https://dailyprogress.com/news/local/timeline-major-downtown-mall-developments/article_6b7beb14-4177-11e6-b528-1f0baf6c1346.html|work=News Article|publisher=The Daily Progress|pageno=|author=Staff reports|printdate= July 3, 2016|publishdate=|accessdate=September 19, 2020}}</ref>
*[[April 13]] &ndash; In an effort to sway public opinion, the city holds ''Mall Day'' to provide a glimpse of life with a pedestrian mall. <ref name="dp-timeline" />
===1972===
===1972===
*[[May 9]] &ndash; Downtown Charlottesville Inc. presents the mall proposal to skeptical Charlottesville business leaders. <ref>{{cite web|title=Timeline: Major Downtown Mall developments|url=https://dailyprogress.com/news/local/timeline-major-downtown-mall-developments/article_6b7beb14-4177-11e6-b528-1f0baf6c1346.html|work=News Article|publisher=The Daily Progress|pageno=|author=Staff reports|printdate= July 3, 2016|publishdate=|accessdate=September 19, 2020}}</ref>
*[[May 9]] &ndash; Downtown Charlottesville Inc. presents the mall proposal to skeptical Charlottesville business leaders. <ref name="dp-timeline" />
 
===1974===
===1974===
[[February]] &ndash; Two councilors cast votes in favor of building the mall. The three other members abstained because of potential conflicts of interest. <ref>{{cite web|title=Timeline: Major Downtown Mall developments|url=https://dailyprogress.com/news/local/timeline-major-downtown-mall-developments/article_6b7beb14-4177-11e6-b528-1f0baf6c1346.html|work=News Article|publisher=The Daily Progress|pageno=|author=Staff reports|printdate= July 3, 2016|publishdate=|accessdate=September 19, 2020}}</ref>
*[[February]] &ndash; Two councilors cast votes in favor of building the mall. The three other members abstained because of potential conflicts of interest. <ref name="dp-timeline" />
 
*[[December 26]] &ndash; Construction of the [[Downtown Mall]] began. <ref>{{cite-progress-worrell|title=The Seventies: Central Virginia Ends Decade of Joy and Tragedy|url=|author=Doug Kamholz|pageno=A6|printdate=January 1, 1980|publishdate=January 1, 1980|accessdate=June 27, 2015}}</ref>There was significant initial opposition to the mall project, with it described as "a boondoggle, a $2 million mistake, [and] a gift to the ungrateful merchants of [[Main Street]].<ref>{{cite-progress|title=Physical Growth, Social Strain Mark City's Year|url=|author=Peter Bacque|pageno=D1|printdate=January 4, 1976|publishdate=|accessdate=|cturl=}}</ref>
*[[December 26]] &ndash; Construction of the [[Downtown Mall]] began. <ref>{{cite-progress-worrell|title=The Seventies: Central Virginia Ends Decade of Joy and Tragedy|url=|author=Doug Kamholz|pageno=A6|printdate=January 1, 1980|publishdate=January 1, 1980|accessdate=June 27, 2015}}</ref>There was significant initial opposition to the mall project, with it described as "a boondoggle, a $2 million mistake, [and] a gift to the ungrateful merchants of [[Main Street]].<ref>{{cite-progress|title=Physical Growth, Social Strain Mark City's Year|url=|author=Peter Bacque|pageno=D1|printdate=January 4, 1976|publishdate=|accessdate=|cturl=}}</ref>
===1975===
===1975===
*[[January 1]] &ndash; East Main Street is barricaded off, beginning an 18-month construction project. <ref>{{cite web|title=Timeline: Major Downtown Mall developments|url=https://dailyprogress.com/news/local/timeline-major-downtown-mall-developments/article_6b7beb14-4177-11e6-b528-1f0baf6c1346.html|work=News Article|publisher=The Daily Progress|pageno=|author=Staff reports|printdate= July 3, 2016|publishdate=|accessdate=September 19, 2020}}</ref>
*[[January 1]] &ndash; East Main Street is barricaded off, beginning an 18-month construction project. <ref name="dp-timeline" />


===1976===
===1976===
*[[July 3]] &ndash; Commemorative brick laid in front of the fountain at [[Central Place]] during the mall’s dedication ceremony. <ref>{{cite web|title=Timeline: Major Downtown Mall developments|url=https://dailyprogress.com/news/local/timeline-major-downtown-mall-developments/article_6b7beb14-4177-11e6-b528-1f0baf6c1346.html|work=News Article|publisher=The Daily Progress|pageno=|author=Staff reports|printdate= July 3, 2016|publishdate=|accessdate=September 19, 2020}}</ref>
*[[July 3]] &ndash; Commemorative brick laid in front of the fountain at [[Central Place]] during the mall’s dedication ceremony. <ref name="dp-timeline" />


===1980===
===1980===
1980: &ndash;  [[Miller & Rhoads]] and [[Leggett]], two large department stores, leave the mall for [[Fashion Square]], heralding the worst sales year the [[Downtown Mall]] has had since its opening in [[1976]]. <ref>{{cite web|title=Timeline: Major Downtown Mall developments|url=https://dailyprogress.com/news/local/timeline-major-downtown-mall-developments/article_6b7beb14-4177-11e6-b528-1f0baf6c1346.html|work=News Article|publisher=The Daily Progress|pageno=|author=Staff reports|printdate= July 3, 2016|publishdate=|accessdate=September 19, 2020}}</ref>
1980: &ndash;  [[Miller & Rhoads]] and [[Leggett]], two large department stores, leave the mall for [[Fashion Square]], heralding the worst sales year the [[Downtown Mall]] has had since its opening in [[1976]]. <ref name="dp-timeline" />
 
===1981===  
===1981===  
*[[August]] &ndash; [[Steve Tharp]] opens [[Miller’s]], the first music spot.  [[Dave Matthews]] later works there as a bartender. <ref>{{cite web|title=Timeline: Major Downtown Mall developments|url=https://dailyprogress.com/news/local/timeline-major-downtown-mall-developments/article_6b7beb14-4177-11e6-b528-1f0baf6c1346.html|work=News Article|publisher=The Daily Progress|pageno=|author=Staff reports|printdate= July 3, 2016|publishdate=|accessdate=September 19, 2020}}</ref>
*[[August]] &ndash; [[Steve Tharp]] opens [[Miller’s]], the first music spot.  [[Dave Matthews]] later works there as a bartender. <ref name="dp-timeline" />
 
===1985===
===1985===
*[[April 2]] &ndash; The [[Radisson Hotel]], later to become the [[Omni Charlottesville Hotel]], opens on the western end of a newly extended [[Downtown Mall]]. <ref>{{cite web|title=Timeline: Major Downtown Mall developments|url=https://dailyprogress.com/news/local/timeline-major-downtown-mall-developments/article_6b7beb14-4177-11e6-b528-1f0baf6c1346.html|work=News Article|publisher=The Daily Progress|pageno=|author=Staff reports|printdate= July 3, 2016|publishdate=|accessdate=September 19, 2020}}</ref>
*[[April 2]] &ndash; The [[Radisson Hotel]], later to become the [[Omni Charlottesville Hotel]], opens on the western end of a newly extended [[Downtown Mall]]. <ref name="dp-timeline" />


===1988===
===1988===
&ndash; Opening [[Second Street West]] to vehicular traffic is first proposed by consultants hired by the city to analyze traffic and parking needs downtown. <ref>{{cite web|title=Timeline: Major Downtown Mall developments|url=https://dailyprogress.com/news/local/timeline-major-downtown-mall-developments/article_6b7beb14-4177-11e6-b528-1f0baf6c1346.html|work=News Article|publisher=The Daily Progress|pageno=|author=Staff reports|printdate= July 3, 2016|publishdate=|accessdate=September 19, 2020}}</ref>
&ndash; Opening [[Second Street West]] to vehicular traffic is first proposed by consultants hired by the city to analyze traffic and parking needs downtown. <ref name="dp-timeline" />
===1988===  
===1988===  
*[[ May]] &ndash; [[Fridays After Five]] holds its first concert. <ref>{{cite web|title=Timeline: Major Downtown Mall developments|url=https://dailyprogress.com/news/local/timeline-major-downtown-mall-developments/article_6b7beb14-4177-11e6-b528-1f0baf6c1346.html|work=News Article|publisher=The Daily Progress|pageno=|author=Staff reports|printdate= July 3, 2016|publishdate=|accessdate=September 19, 2020}}</ref>
*[[May]] &ndash; [[Fridays After Five]] holds its first concert. <ref name="dp-timeline" />
===1988===  
===1988===  
*[[Summer]] &ndash; The [[Charlottesville Industrial Authority]] purchases a 16-acre tract east of the Belmont Bridge from the CSX railroad for $1.5 million with plans to build officers, retail stores and residences. <ref>{{cite web|title=Timeline: Major Downtown Mall developments|url=https://dailyprogress.com/news/local/timeline-major-downtown-mall-developments/article_6b7beb14-4177-11e6-b528-1f0baf6c1346.html|work=News Article|publisher=The Daily Progress|pageno=|author=Staff reports|printdate= July 3, 2016|publishdate=|accessdate=September 19, 2020}}</ref>
*[[Summer]] &ndash; The [[Charlottesville Industrial Authority]] purchases a 16-acre tract east of the [[Belmont Bridge]] from the CSX railroad for $1.5 million with plans to build officers, retail stores and residences. <ref name="dp-timeline" />


===1989===  
===1989===  
*[[May 9]] &ndash; SNL Securities signs a five-year lease for the space once occupied by the [[Wiley’s Department]] store on the mall. <ref>{{cite web|title=Timeline: Major Downtown Mall developments|url=https://dailyprogress.com/news/local/timeline-major-downtown-mall-developments/article_6b7beb14-4177-11e6-b528-1f0baf6c1346.html|work=News Article|publisher=The Daily Progress|pageno=|author=Staff reports|printdate= July 3, 2016|publishdate=|accessdate=September 19, 2020}}</ref>
*[[May 9]] &ndash; SNL Securities signs a five-year lease for the space once occupied by the [[Wiley’s Department]] store on the mall. <ref name="dp-timeline" />


===1988-1989===
===1988-1989===
&ndash; A declining number of stores downtown leads to the creation of the [[Charlottesville Downtown Foundation (CDF)]], [[Fridays After Five]] and talks of creating a downtown tax district. <ref>{{cite web|title=Timeline: Major Downtown Mall developments|url=https://dailyprogress.com/news/local/timeline-major-downtown-mall-developments/article_6b7beb14-4177-11e6-b528-1f0baf6c1346.html|work=News Article|publisher=The Daily Progress|pageno=|author=Staff reports|printdate= July 3, 2016|publishdate=|accessdate=September 19, 2020}}</ref>
&ndash; A declining number of stores downtown leads to the creation of the [[Charlottesville Downtown Foundation (CDF)]], [[Fridays After Five]] and talks of creating a downtown tax district. <ref name="dp-timeline" />
===1990===  
===1990===  
*[[January 1]] &ndash; The Charlottesville Downtown Foundation, a public-private corporation, officially opens, replacing Downtown Charlottesville Inc. <ref>{{cite web|title=Timeline: Major Downtown Mall developments|url=https://dailyprogress.com/news/local/timeline-major-downtown-mall-developments/article_6b7beb14-4177-11e6-b528-1f0baf6c1346.html|work=News Article|publisher=The Daily Progress|pageno=|author=Staff reports|printdate= July 3, 2016|publishdate=|accessdate=September 19, 2020}}</ref>
*[[January 1]] &ndash; The [[Charlottesville Downtown Foundation]], a public-private corporation, officially opens, replacing Downtown Charlottesville Inc. <ref name="dp-timeline" />2016|publishdate=|accessdate=September 19, 2020}}</ref>
*[[May 1]] &ndash; The Virginia Discovery Museum opens its new Downtown Mall location. <ref>{{cite web|title=Timeline: Major Downtown Mall developments|url=https://dailyprogress.com/news/local/timeline-major-downtown-mall-developments/article_6b7beb14-4177-11e6-b528-1f0baf6c1346.html|work=News Article|publisher=The Daily Progress|pageno=|author=Staff reports|printdate= July 3, 2016|publishdate=|accessdate=September 19, 2020}}</ref>
*[[May 1]] &ndash; The Virginia Discovery Museum opens its new Downtown Mall location. <ref name="dp-timeline" />
===1993===  
===1993===  
*[[November]] &ndash; The first two levels of the [[Water Street Parking Garage]] open, adding 692 spaces to the downtown stock. <ref>{{cite web|title=Timeline: Major Downtown Mall developments|url=https://dailyprogress.com/news/local/timeline-major-downtown-mall-developments/article_6b7beb14-4177-11e6-b528-1f0baf6c1346.html|work=News Article|publisher=The Daily Progress|pageno=|author=Staff reports|printdate= July 3, 2016|publishdate=|accessdate=September 19, 2020}}</ref>
*[[November]] &ndash; The first two levels of the [[Water Street Parking Garage]] open, adding 692 spaces to the downtown stock. <ref name="dp-timeline" />
===1994===  
===1994===  
*[[Summer]] &ndash; The amphitheater and eastern extension of the mall open. CDF agrees to build a permanent stage for [[Fridays After Five]]. <ref>{{cite web|title=Timeline: Major Downtown Mall developments|url=https://dailyprogress.com/news/local/timeline-major-downtown-mall-developments/article_6b7beb14-4177-11e6-b528-1f0baf6c1346.html|work=News Article|publisher=The Daily Progress|pageno=|author=Staff reports|printdate= July 3, 2016|publishdate=|accessdate=September 19, 2020}}</ref>
*[[Summer]] &ndash; The amphitheater and eastern extension of the mall open. CDF agrees to build a permanent stage for [[Fridays After Five]]. <ref name="dp-timeline" />
*[[August 15]] &ndash; Against strong public sentiment, the City Council grants a request by Charlottesville 2000, a private group behind the Regal Cinemas movie theater and the Charlottesville Ice Park, to open Second Street West to northbound traffic. <ref>{{cite web|title=Timeline: Major Downtown Mall developments|url=https://dailyprogress.com/news/local/timeline-major-downtown-mall-developments/article_6b7beb14-4177-11e6-b528-1f0baf6c1346.html|work=News Article|publisher=The Daily Progress|pageno=|author=Staff reports|printdate= July 3, 2016|publishdate=|accessdate=September 19, 2020}}</ref>
*[[August 15]] &ndash; Against strong public sentiment, the City Council grants a request by Charlottesville 2000, a private group behind the Regal Cinemas movie theater and the Charlottesville Ice Park, to open Second Street West to northbound traffic. <ref name="dp-timeline" />
===1995===  
===1995===  
*[[April 19]] &ndash; The first [[Fridays After Five]] concert at the new amphitheater on the east end of the mall is held. The concert draws the largest turnout ever: an estimated 4,000 people and 100 dogs. <ref>{{cite web|title=Timeline: Major Downtown Mall developments|url=https://dailyprogress.com/news/local/timeline-major-downtown-mall-developments/article_6b7beb14-4177-11e6-b528-1f0baf6c1346.html|work=News Article|publisher=The Daily Progress|pageno=|author=Staff reports|printdate= July 3, 2016|publishdate=|accessdate=September 19, 2020}}</ref>
*[[April 19]] &ndash; The first [[Fridays After Five]] concert at the new amphitheater on the east end of the mall is held. The concert draws the largest turnout ever: an estimated 4,000 people and 100 dogs. <ref name="dp-timeline" />
===1996===  
===1996===  
* &ndash; The [[Charlottesville Ice Park]] and [[Regal Cinemas]] open. <ref>{{cite web|title=Timeline: Major Downtown Mall developments|url=https://dailyprogress.com/news/local/timeline-major-downtown-mall-developments/article_6b7beb14-4177-11e6-b528-1f0baf6c1346.html|work=News Article|publisher=The Daily Progress|pageno=|author=Staff reports|printdate= July 3, 2016|publishdate=|accessdate=September 19, 2020}}</ref>
* &ndash; The [[Charlottesville Ice Park]] and [[Regal Cinemas]] open. <ref name="dp-timeline" />
*[[April]] &ndash; Second Street West is opened to vehicular traffic with no prior announcement. “Charlottesville officials goofed,” an April 30 Daily Progress editorial proclaims. <ref>{{cite web|title=Timeline: Major Downtown Mall developments|url=https://dailyprogress.com/news/local/timeline-major-downtown-mall-developments/article_6b7beb14-4177-11e6-b528-1f0baf6c1346.html|work=News Article|publisher=The Daily Progress|pageno=|author=Staff reports|printdate= July 3, 2016|publishdate=|accessdate=September 19, 2020}}</ref>
*[[April]] &ndash; Second Street West is opened to vehicular traffic with no prior announcement. “Charlottesville officials goofed,” an April 30 Daily Progress editorial proclaims. <ref name="dp-timeline" />
===2000===
===2000===
*[[September 29]] &ndash; The [[Charlottesville-Albemarle Downtown Visitors’ Center]], operated by the [[Charlottesville-Albemarle Convention and Visitors Bureau]], opens on [[Second Street Southeast]]. <ref>{{cite web|title=Timeline: Major Downtown Mall developments|url=https://dailyprogress.com/news/local/timeline-major-downtown-mall-developments/article_6b7beb14-4177-11e6-b528-1f0baf6c1346.html|work=News Article|publisher=The Daily Progress|pageno=|author=Staff reports|printdate= July 3, 2016|publishdate=|accessdate=September 19, 2020}}</ref>  
*[[September 29]] &ndash; The [[Charlottesville-Albemarle Downtown Visitors’ Center]], operated by the [[Charlottesville-Albemarle Convention and Visitors Bureau]], opens on [[Second Street Southeast]]. <ref name="dp-timeline" />
===2003===
===2003===
*[[April]] &ndash; [[Charlottesville City Council (2002-2003)]] discussed whether rules could be set regarding panhandling.<ref>{{minutes-citycouncil|when=April 21, 2003|id=195916}}</ref>
*[[April]] &ndash; [[Charlottesville City Council (2002-2003)]] discussed whether rules could be set regarding panhandling.<ref>{{minutes-citycouncil|when=April 21, 2003|id=195916}}</ref>
[[Category: Panhandling]]
===2004===
===2004===
*[[October]] &ndash; Construction of Presidents Plaza begins. <ref>{{cite web|title=Timeline: Major Downtown Mall developments|url=https://dailyprogress.com/news/local/timeline-major-downtown-mall-developments/article_6b7beb14-4177-11e6-b528-1f0baf6c1346.html|work=News Article|publisher=The Daily Progress|pageno=|author=Staff reports|printdate= July 3, 2016|publishdate=|accessdate=September 19, 2020}}</ref>
*[[October]] &ndash; Construction of Presidents Plaza begins. <ref name="dp-timeline" />
*[[December 16]] &ndash; The historic Paramount Theater reopens after a $14 million restoration. <ref>{{cite web|title=Timeline: Major Downtown Mall developments|url=https://dailyprogress.com/news/local/timeline-major-downtown-mall-developments/article_6b7beb14-4177-11e6-b528-1f0baf6c1346.html|work=News Article|publisher=The Daily Progress|pageno=|author=Staff reports|printdate= July 3, 2016|publishdate=|accessdate=September 19, 2020}}</ref>
*[[December 16]] &ndash; The historic Paramount Theater reopens after a $14 million restoration. <ref name="dp-timeline" />
===2005===  
===2005===  
*[[July 27]] &ndash; The [[Charlottesville Pavilion]] amphitheater opens, featuring a distinctive white roof that some derided as a “lobster trap” or a “Conestoga wagon.” <ref>{{cite web|title=Timeline: Major Downtown Mall developments|url=https://dailyprogress.com/news/local/timeline-major-downtown-mall-developments/article_6b7beb14-4177-11e6-b528-1f0baf6c1346.html|work=News Article|publisher=The Daily Progress|pageno=|author=Staff reports|printdate= July 3, 2016|publishdate=|accessdate=September 19, 2020}}</ref>
*[[July 27]] &ndash; The [[Charlottesville Pavilion]] amphitheater opens, featuring a distinctive white roof that some derided as a “lobster trap” or a “Conestoga wagon.” <ref name="dp-timeline" />
===2006===  
===2006===  
*[[April 20]] &ndash; The [[Free Speech Monument]] is dedicated. <ref>{{cite web|title=Timeline: Major Downtown Mall developments|url=https://dailyprogress.com/news/local/timeline-major-downtown-mall-developments/article_6b7beb14-4177-11e6-b528-1f0baf6c1346.html|work=News Article|publisher=The Daily Progress|pageno=|author=Staff reports|printdate= July 3, 2016|publishdate=|accessdate=September 19, 2020}}</ref>
*[[April 20]] &ndash; The [[Free Speech Monument]] is dedicated. <ref name="dp-timeline" />
*[[May 1]] &ndash; A second vehicular crossing opens at [[Fourth Street East]]. <ref>{{cite web|title=Timeline: Major Downtown Mall developments|url=https://dailyprogress.com/news/local/timeline-major-downtown-mall-developments/article_6b7beb14-4177-11e6-b528-1f0baf6c1346.html|work=News Article|publisher=The Daily Progress|pageno=|author=Staff reports|printdate= July 3, 2016|publishdate=|accessdate=September 19, 2020}}</ref>
*[[May 1]] &ndash; A second vehicular crossing opens at [[Fourth Street East]]. <ref name="dp-timeline" />
===2007===
===2007===
*[[February 28]] &ndash; University of Virginia graduate Tom Shadyac’s First Street Church Project, LLC purchased and renovated the historic First Christian Church on the corner of Market Street and First Street after spending much of the [[2005]] in the area filming “Evan Almighty."<ref>https://dailyprogress.com/news/19th-century-city-church-reborn-as-a-house-like-haven-for-needy/article_b3adc353-d54f-566f-9bf9-188680e946b7.html</ref> On January 18, 2020 [[The Haven at First & Market]], a multi-resource day shelter, opened its doors and became an independent nonprofit in [[2014]].
*[[February 28]] &ndash; University of Virginia graduate Tom Shadyac’s First Street Church Project, LLC purchased and renovated the historic First Christian Church on the corner of Market Street and First Street after spending much of the [[2005]] in the area filming “Evan Almighty." On January 18, 2020 [[The Haven at First & Market]], a multi-resource day shelter, opened its doors and became an independent nonprofit in [[2014]]. <ref name="dp-timeline" />
*[[September 5]] &ndash; CNET founder Halsey Minor buys the former [[Boxer Learning]] building to pave the way for the nine-story luxury [[Landmark Hotel]]. <ref>{{cite web|title=Timeline: Major Downtown Mall developments|url=https://dailyprogress.com/news/local/timeline-major-downtown-mall-developments/article_6b7beb14-4177-11e6-b528-1f0baf6c1346.html|work=News Article|publisher=The Daily Progress|pageno=|author=Staff reports|printdate= July 3, 2016|publishdate=|accessdate=September 19, 2020}}</ref>
*[[September 5]] &ndash; CNET founder [[Halsey Minor]] buys the former [[Boxer Learning]] building to pave the way for the nine-story luxury [[Landmark Hotel]]. <ref name="dp-timeline" />
*[[December 3]] &ndash; [[Charlottesville Chief of Police]] [[Tim Longo]] presented a plan to [[Charlottesville City Council (2006-2007)]] for approval to install closed circuit TV cameras on and around the Downtown Mall. Longo’s original proposal to install 30 high-resolution cameras with the ability to zoom, pan and tilt on and around the Mall would cost roughly $300,000. Councilors voted 4-1 to let Longo request bids for a camera system that, unlike the original, would not feed into a centralized system.<ref>https://www.c-ville.com/Mall_Cameras_move_forward_hellipbarely/</ref>
*[ [December 3]] &ndash; [[Charlottesville Chief of Police]] [[Tim Longo]] presented a plan to [[Charlottesville City Council (2006-2007)]] for approval to install closed circuit TV cameras on and around the Downtown Mall. Longo’s original proposal to install 30 high-resolution cameras with the ability to zoom, pan and tilt on and around the Mall would cost roughly $300,000. Councilors voted 4-1 to let Longo request bids for a camera system that, unlike the original, would not feed into a centralized system.<ref>https://www.c-ville.com/Mall_Cameras_move_forward_hellipbarely/</ref>
===2008===  
===2008===  
*[[January 28]] &ndash; With deteriorating bricks and failing lights and fountains, a renovation proposal that addressed the mall’s problems and explores new features is unveiled. <ref>{{cite web|title=Timeline: Major Downtown Mall developments|url=https://dailyprogress.com/news/local/timeline-major-downtown-mall-developments/article_6b7beb14-4177-11e6-b528-1f0baf6c1346.html|work=News Article|publisher=The Daily Progress|pageno=|author=Staff reports|printdate= July 3, 2016|publishdate=|accessdate=September 19, 2020}}</ref>
*[[January 28]] &ndash; With deteriorating bricks and failing lights and fountains, a renovation proposal that addressed the mall’s problems and explores new features is unveiled. <ref name="dp-timeline" />
===2009===  
===2009===  
*[[July 21]] &ndash; City Council votes, 5-0, to proceed with the mall renovation project, despite a $7.5 million estimate and a shrinking project scope. <ref>{{cite web|title=Timeline: Major Downtown Mall developments|url=https://dailyprogress.com/news/local/timeline-major-downtown-mall-developments/article_6b7beb14-4177-11e6-b528-1f0baf6c1346.html|work=News Article|publisher=The Daily Progress|pageno=|author=Staff reports|printdate= July 3, 2016|publishdate=|accessdate=September 19, 2020}}</ref>
*[[July 21]] &ndash; City Council votes, 5-0, to proceed with the mall renovation project, despite a $7.5 million estimate and a shrinking project scope. <ref name="dp-timeline" />
*[[November]] &ndash; A historic storefront façade, built in [[1921]] and once home to [[Victory Shoe Store]], is demolished.  In December, the city’s [[Board of Architectural Review]] said it never should have happened. <ref>{{cite web|title=Timeline: Major Downtown Mall developments|url=https://dailyprogress.com/news/local/timeline-major-downtown-mall-developments/article_6b7beb14-4177-11e6-b528-1f0baf6c1346.html|work=News Article|publisher=The Daily Progress|pageno=|author=Staff reports|printdate= July 3, 2016|publishdate=|accessdate=September 19, 2020}}</ref>
*[[November]] &ndash; A historic storefront façade, built in [[1921]] and once home to [[Victory Shoe Store]], is demolished.  In December, the city’s [[Board of Architectural Review]] said it never should have happened. <ref name="dp-timeline" />
*[[November 20]] &ndash; Workers put the finishing touches on the [[Haven at First and Market]] day shelter for the homeless. The $5 million project, which transformed a 19th-century Charlottesville church, was pioneered by film director and [[University of Virginia]] graduate [[Tom Shadyac]]. <ref>https://dailyprogress.com/news/19th-century-city-church-reborn-as-a-house-like-haven-for-needy/article_b3adc353-d54f-566f-9bf9-188680e946b7.html</ref>$
*[[November 20]] &ndash; Workers put the finishing touches on the [[Haven at First and Market]] day shelter for the homeless. The $5 million project, which transformed a 19th-century Charlottesville church, was pioneered by film director and [[University of Virginia]] graduate [[Tom Shadyac]]. <ref>https://dailyprogress.com/news/19th-century-city-church-reborn-as-a-house-like-haven-for-needy/article_b3adc353-d54f-566f-9bf9-188680e946b7.html</ref>$
*[[November 27]] &ndash; After closing for renovations in [[2006]], The [[Jefferson Theater]] reopens as a music venue, featuring Jason Isbell and Charlottesville’s Sons of Bill that night. The building dates back to [[1912]]. <ref>{{cite web|title=Timeline: Major Downtown Mall developments|url=https://dailyprogress.com/news/local/timeline-major-downtown-mall-developments/article_6b7beb14-4177-11e6-b528-1f0baf6c1346.html|work=News Article|publisher=The Daily Progress|pageno=|author=Staff reports|printdate= July 3, 2016|publishdate=|accessdate=September 19, 2020}}</ref>
*[[November 27]] &ndash; After closing for renovations in [[2006]], The [[Jefferson Theater]] reopens as a music venue, featuring Jason Isbell and Charlottesville’s Sons of Bill that night. The building dates back to [[1912]]. <ref name="dp-timeline" />
 
===2011===
===2011===
*[[April 5]] &ndash; The [[Charlottesville Pavilion]] is renamed the [[nTelos Wireless Pavilion]] under a five-year sponsorship. <ref>{{cite web|title=Timeline: Major Downtown Mall developments|url=https://dailyprogress.com/news/local/timeline-major-downtown-mall-developments/article_6b7beb14-4177-11e6-b528-1f0baf6c1346.html|work=News Article|publisher=The Daily Progress|pageno=|author=Staff reports|printdate= July 3, 2016|publishdate=|accessdate=September 19, 2020}}</ref>
*[[April 5]] &ndash; The [[Charlottesville Pavilion]] is renamed the [[nTelos Wireless Pavilion]] under a five-year sponsorship. <ref name="dp-timeline" />
===2012===
===2012===
*[[June 18]] &ndash; Following years of stalled construction, the skeletal [[Landmark Hotel]] is sold at auction for $6.25 million to developer [[John Dewberry]]. <ref>{{cite web|title=Timeline: Major Downtown Mall developments|url=https://dailyprogress.com/news/local/timeline-major-downtown-mall-developments/article_6b7beb14-4177-11e6-b528-1f0baf6c1346.html|work=News Article|publisher=The Daily Progress|pageno=|author=Staff reports|printdate= July 3, 2016|publishdate=|accessdate=September 19, 2020}}</ref>
*[[June 18]] &ndash; Following years of stalled construction, the skeletal [[Landmark Hotel]] is sold at auction for $6.25 million to developer [[John Dewberry]]. <ref name="dp-timeline" /><ref>{{cite-cville|title=Atlanta developer snaps up Landmark for $6.25 million|url=http://www.c-ville.com/atlanta_developer_buys_landmark/#.VsW2OfkrJhE|author=Graelyn Brashear|pageno=|printno=|printdate=|publishdate=|accessdate=February 18, 2016}}</ref>
*The Virginia Chapter of the American Society of Landscape Architects designated the mall as an a "2012 Iconic Landscape." <ref>{{cite-progress|title=Downtown Mall to be honored Thursday|url=http://www2.dailyprogress.com/news/2012/sep/30/downtown-mall-be-honored-thursday-ar-2247029/|author=Daily Progress Staff Reports|pageno=|printdate=September 30, 2012|publishdate=September 30, 2012|accessdate=October 8, 2012|cturl=}}</ref>
*The Virginia Chapter of the American Society of Landscape Architects designated the mall as an a "2012 Iconic Landscape." <ref>{{cite-progress|title=Downtown Mall to be honored Thursday|url=http://www2.dailyprogress.com/news/2012/sep/30/downtown-mall-be-honored-thursday-ar-2247029/|author=Daily Progress Staff Reports|pageno=|printdate=September 30, 2012|publishdate=September 30, 2012|accessdate=October 8, 2012|cturl=}}</ref>
*[[Winter]] &ndash; The [[Charlottesville City Council (2012-2013)]] created the [[Mall ambassador program]] as a way to provide more "eyes on the street" to deter crime on the [[Downtown Mall]] and to be a resource for tourists.  The program was eliminated from the budget and it ended on [[June 30]], [[2016]]. <ref>{{cite-progress|title=Mall ambassador program cut in proposed city budget|url=http://www.dailyprogress.com/news/local/mall-ambassador-program-cut-in-proposed-city-budget/article_ec7b1ce4-e4d9-11e5-811b-7f400ff9c326.html|author=Lauren Berg|pageno=|printdate=March 7, 2016|publishdate=March 7, 2016|accessdate=December 31, 2016}}</ref>
*[[Winter]] &ndash; The [[Charlottesville City Council (2012-2013)]] created the [[Mall ambassador program]] as a way to provide more "eyes on the street" to deter crime on the [[Downtown Mall]] and to be a resource for tourists.  The program was eliminated from the budget and it ended on [[June 30]], [[2016]]. <ref>{{cite-progress|title=Mall ambassador program cut in proposed city budget|url=http://www.dailyprogress.com/news/local/mall-ambassador-program-cut-in-proposed-city-budget/article_ec7b1ce4-e4d9-11e5-811b-7f400ff9c326.html|author=Lauren Berg|pageno=|printdate=March 7, 2016|publishdate=March 7, 2016|accessdate=December 31, 2016}}</ref>
===2013===
===2013===
*[[April]] &ndash; Five ambassadors, the “eyes and ears of the Charlottesville Police Department,” start patrolling the [[Downtown Mall]].  Chief [[Timothy J. Longo]] had requested more officers for the mall, but [[City Council]] settled on a part-time liaison program. <ref>{{cite web|title=Timeline: Major Downtown Mall developments|url=https://dailyprogress.com/news/local/timeline-major-downtown-mall-developments/article_6b7beb14-4177-11e6-b528-1f0baf6c1346.html|work=News Article|publisher=The Daily Progress|pageno=|author=Staff reports|printdate= July 3, 2016|publishdate=|accessdate=September 19, 2020}}</ref>
*[[April]] &ndash; Five ambassadors, the “eyes and ears of the Charlottesville Police Department,” start patrolling the [[Downtown Mall]].  Chief [[Timothy J. Longo]] had requested more officers for the mall, but [[Charlottesville City Council (2012-2013)]] settled on a part-time liaison program. <ref name="dp-timeline" />
*The City Council authorized a [[Downtown Mall Ambassadors]] program which hired tour guides to help visitors and also to alert police to crime. <ref>{{cite-progress|title=Ambassadors a second set of eyes and ears on the Downtown Mall|url=http://www.dailyprogress.com/news/local/ambassadors-a-second-set-of-eyes-and-ears-on-the/article_dc25dec8-b5f3-11e2-9775-001a4bcf6878.html|author=Aaron Richardson|pageno=|printdate=May 6, 2013|publishdate=May 6, 2013|accessdate=May 6, 2013|cturl=}}</ref>
*The [[Charlottesville City Council (2012-2013)]] authorized a [[Downtown Mall Ambassadors]] program which hired tour guides to help visitors and also to alert police to crime. <ref>{{cite-progress|title=Ambassadors a second set of eyes and ears on the Downtown Mall|url=http://www.dailyprogress.com/news/local/ambassadors-a-second-set-of-eyes-and-ears-on-the/article_dc25dec8-b5f3-11e2-9775-001a4bcf6878.html|author=Aaron Richardson|pageno=|printdate=May 6, 2013|publishdate=May 6, 2013|accessdate=May 6, 2013|cturl=}}</ref>
*[[August 4]] &ndash; The [[Vinegar Hill Theatre]], which showed first-run, independent and foreign films, closes after 37 years. <ref>{{cite web|title=Timeline: Major Downtown Mall developments|url=https://dailyprogress.com/news/local/timeline-major-downtown-mall-developments/article_6b7beb14-4177-11e6-b528-1f0baf6c1346.html|work=News Article|publisher=The Daily Progress|pageno=|author=Staff reports|printdate= July 3, 2016|publishdate=|accessdate=September 19, 2020}}</ref>
*[[August 4]] &ndash; The [[Vinegar Hill Theatre]], which showed first-run, independent and foreign films, closes after 37 years. <ref name="dp-timeline" />
*[[September 13]] &ndash;  [[University of Virginia]] student [[Hannah Graham]] is last seen in a [[Downtown Mall]] restaurant. Her body would be found later and an Albemarle County man would plead guilty in her murder. <ref>{{cite web|title=Timeline: Major Downtown Mall developments|url=https://dailyprogress.com/news/local/timeline-major-downtown-mall-developments/article_6b7beb14-4177-11e6-b528-1f0baf6c1346.html|work=News Article|publisher=The Daily Progress|pageno=|author=Staff reports|printdate= July 3, 2016|publishdate=|accessdate=September 19, 2020}}</ref>
*[[September 13]] &ndash;  [[University of Virginia]] student [[Hannah Graham]] is last seen in a [[Downtown Mall]] restaurant. Her body would be found later and an Albemarle County man would plead guilty in her murder. <ref name="dp-timeline" />
===2015===  
===2015===  
*[[October 30]] &ndash; The [[Violet Crown Charlottesville]] opens where the [[Regal Cinemas]] once operated. <ref>{{cite web|title=Timeline: Major Downtown Mall developments|url=https://dailyprogress.com/news/local/timeline-major-downtown-mall-developments/article_6b7beb14-4177-11e6-b528-1f0baf6c1346.html|work=News Article|publisher=The Daily Progress|pageno=|author=Staff reports|printdate= July 3, 2016|publishdate=|accessdate=September 19, 2020}}</ref>
*[[October 30]] &ndash; The [[Violet Crown Charlottesville]] opens where the [[Regal Cinemas]] once operated. <ref name="dp-timeline" />
*[[December 15]] &ndash; A grand illumination ceremony celebrates the [[Paramount Theater]]’s rebuilt blade sign and caps off a renovation project that began more than two decades ago. <ref>{{cite web|title=Timeline: Major Downtown Mall developments|url=https://dailyprogress.com/news/local/timeline-major-downtown-mall-developments/article_6b7beb14-4177-11e6-b528-1f0baf6c1346.html|work=News Article|publisher=The Daily Progress|pageno=|author=Staff reports|printdate= July 3, 2016|publishdate=|accessdate=September 19, 2020}}</ref>
*[[December 15]] &ndash; A grand illumination ceremony celebrates the [[Paramount Theater]]’s rebuilt blade sign and caps off a renovation project that began more than two decades ago. <ref name="dp-timeline" />
===2016===
===2016===
*[[March 3]] &ndash; After 89 years of business on the [[Downtown Mall]] and elsewhere in the area, the [[Young Men’s Shop]] announces it will close in the spring. <ref>{{cite web|title=Timeline: Major Downtown Mall developments|url=https://dailyprogress.com/news/local/timeline-major-downtown-mall-developments/article_6b7beb14-4177-11e6-b528-1f0baf6c1346.html|work=News Article|publisher=The Daily Progress|pageno=|author=Staff reports|printdate= July 3, 2016|publishdate=|accessdate=September 19, 2020}}</ref>
*[[March 3]] &ndash; After 89 years of business on the [[Downtown Mall]] and elsewhere in the area, the [[Young Men’s Shop]] announces it will close in the spring. <ref name="dp-timeline" />
*[[March 7]] &ndash; The [[Charlottesville City Council (2016-2017)]] eliminated the [[Mall ambassador program]] from the budget and it ended on [[June 30]], [[2016]].  Originally created by the [[Charlottesville City Council (2012-2013)]] as a way to provide more "eyes on the street" to deter crime on the [[Downtown Mall]] and to be a resource for tourists. <ref>{{cite-progress|title=Mall ambassador program cut in proposed city budget|url=http://www.dailyprogress.com/news/local/mall-ambassador-program-cut-in-proposed-city-budget/article_ec7b1ce4-e4d9-11e5-811b-7f400ff9c326.html|author=Lauren Berg|pageno=|printdate=March 7, 2016|publishdate=March 7, 2016|accessdate=December 31, 2016}}</ref>
*[[March 7]] &ndash; The [[Charlottesville City Council (2016-2017)]] eliminated the [[Mall ambassador program]] from the budget and it ended on [[June 30]], [[2016]].  Originally created by the [[Charlottesville City Council (2012-2013)]] as a way to provide more "eyes on the street" to deter crime on the [[Downtown Mall]] and to be a resource for tourists. <ref>{{cite-progress|title=Mall ambassador program cut in proposed city budget|url=http://www.dailyprogress.com/news/local/mall-ambassador-program-cut-in-proposed-city-budget/article_ec7b1ce4-e4d9-11e5-811b-7f400ff9c326.html|author=Lauren Berg|pageno=|printdate=March 7, 2016|publishdate=March 7, 2016|accessdate=December 31, 2016}}</ref>
*[[May 17]] &ndash; The [[nTelos Wireless Pavilion]] is renamed the [[Sprint Pavilion]]. <ref>{{cite web|title=Timeline: Major Downtown Mall developments|url=https://dailyprogress.com/news/local/timeline-major-downtown-mall-developments/article_6b7beb14-4177-11e6-b528-1f0baf6c1346.html|work=News Article|publisher=The Daily Progress|pageno=|author=Staff reports|printdate= July 3, 2016|publishdate=|accessdate=September 19, 2020}}</ref>
*[[May 17]] &ndash; The [[nTelos Wireless Pavilion]] is renamed the [[Sprint Pavilion]]. <ref name="dp-timeline" />
*[[May 24]] &ndash; Rather than moving forward with a plan to condemn and purchase the unfinished [[Landmark Hotel]], [[Charlottesville City Council (2016-2017)]] now say it could open in [[2018]].<ref>{{cite web|title=Timeline: Major Downtown Mall developments|url=https://dailyprogress.com/news/local/timeline-major-downtown-mall-developments/article_6b7beb14-4177-11e6-b528-1f0baf6c1346.html|work=News Article|publisher=The Daily Progress|pageno=|author=Staff reports|printdate= July 3, 2016|publishdate=|accessdate=September 19, 2020}}</ref>.
*[[June 30]] &ndash; Eliminated by [[Charlottesville City Council (2016-2017)]], the [[Downtown Mall ambassador program]] ends.  Over a three-year period, the city plans to hire 22 new officers to provide more law enforcement coverage. <ref name="dp-timeline" />
*[[June 30]] &ndash; Eliminated by [[Charlottesville City Council (2016-2017)]], the [[Downtown Mall ambassador program]] ends.  Over a three-year period, the city plans to hire 22 new officers to provide more law enforcement coverage. <ref>{{cite web|title=Timeline: Major Downtown Mall developments|url=https://dailyprogress.com/news/local/timeline-major-downtown-mall-developments/article_6b7beb14-4177-11e6-b528-1f0baf6c1346.html|work=News Article|publisher=The Daily Progress|pageno=|author=Staff reports|printdate= July 3, 2016|publishdate=|accessdate=September 19, 2020}}</ref>
===2018===
===2018===
*[[May]] &ndash; [[Charlottesville City Council (2018-2019)]] voted 3-2 to spend $100,000 to study ways to improve safety at the two vehicular crossings. <ref>{{cite web|title=Charlottesville City Council OKs $100,000 for Downtown Mall risk and threat assessment|url=http://www.dailyprogress.com/news/local/city/charlottesville-city-council-oks-for-downtown-mall-risk-and-threat/article_3ae89e32-5e1e-11e8-9401-67970f801a56.html|author=Chris Suarez|work=News Article|publisher=Daily Progress|location=|publishdate=May 22, 2018|accessdate=May 28, 2018}}</ref>
*[[May]] &ndash; [[Charlottesville City Council (2018-2019)]] voted 3-2 to spend $100,000 to study ways to improve safety at the two vehicular crossings. <ref>{{cite web|title=Charlottesville City Council OKs $100,000 for Downtown Mall risk and threat assessment|url=http://www.dailyprogress.com/news/local/city/charlottesville-city-council-oks-for-downtown-mall-risk-and-threat/article_3ae89e32-5e1e-11e8-9401-67970f801a56.html|author=Chris Suarez|work=News Article|publisher=Daily Progress|location=|publishdate=May 22, 2018|accessdate=May 28, 2018}}</ref>
==Images through time==
<gallery caption="Photo gallery" widths="210px" heights="180px" perrow="3">
20171108-Lee%27s.jpeg|The former Lee's Hallmark, November 8, 2017
20190501-mall-bricks.jpeg|The bricks of the Downtown Mall, May 1, 2019
</gallery>
{{clear}}


==References==
==References==
Line 159: Line 162:


==External Links==
==External Links==
*[http://cvilletomorrow.org/topics/downtown_mall/ Downtown Mall coverage from Charlottesville Tomorrow]
*[http://www.charlottesville.org/Index.aspx?page=1551 Downtown Mall on the City's website]
*[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AnJMKdtyEyo January 1974 report to City Council from Central City Commission]
*[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AnJMKdtyEyo January 1974 report to City Council from Central City Commission]
*{{OnWikipedia|Downtown_Mall}}
*{{OnWikipedia|Downtown_Mall}}

Latest revision as of 09:29, 6 March 2024

DowntownMall.jpg

Charlottesville's Downtown Mall is one of the centerpieces of Charlottesville. Created in the 1970's and open to the public on July 3, 1976, the pedestrian walkway has become a tourist destination as well as a defining element of Charlottesville's civic culture. It is bordered on the west end by the Omni Hotel, and on the east end by the Charlottesville Pavilion.

History

The mall was created as a way to revitalize the city's central core. City political and business leaders were concerned that the downtown area was declining due to retail developments such as the Barracks Road Shopping Center, which was growing at a much faster rate than downtown. [1]

Its origins date back to a recommendation made in late October 1959 by a subcommittee of the Chamber of Commerce. The Parking and Traffic Committee called for a study of removing pavement on East Main Street and restricting traffic to pedestrians. [2]

An organization called the Central City Commission was formed to explore ways to attract more people back downtown. The commission and City Council worked with the firm Lawrence Halprin & Associates to develop plans for what would become the mall. Council voted 2-0 to approve the plans on March 18, 1974. [3] Three members of Council had to recuse themselves because opponents of the project alleged they had a conflict of interest. [4]

There was significant initial opposition to the mall project, with it described as "a boondoggle, a $2 million mistake, [and] a gift to the ungrateful merchants of Main Street.[5]" Construction of the mall began on December 26, 1974. [6]

The first sidewalk cafe was at The Muse, a restaurant owned by George Cason and Richard Cason. City Council approved a special use permit on June 2, 1980. This provided a template for future requests. [7] [8]

Concerns

On several occasions including April 2003, Council has discussed whether rules could be set regarding panhandling. [9]

In late May 2018, Council voted 3-2 to spend $100,000 to study ways to improve safety at the two vehicular crossings. [10]

Mall Ambassador program

The City Council created the mall ambassador program at the end of 2012 as a way to provide more "eyes on the street" to deter crime on the Downtown Mall and to be a resource for tourists. The program was eliminated from the budget and it ended on June 30, 2016. [11]

Local Voices, Local History

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VIDEO CREDITS: Narrated by Satyendra Huja;
Graphic design: Jen Fleischer; Project Manager: Kristin Rourke.

2009 Mall Renovation Project

The Mall was overhauled under a $7.5 million project that was subject to some debate. Wallace Roberts & Todd were commissioned to conduct a schematic design. [12]

On July 21, 2008 voted to proceed with a design being shepherded by MMM Design. The City promised that the work would be done in five months beginning in January, with the project being overseen by construction management firm Barton Malow. Block captains volunteered to help the City develop a construction schedule that minimized the impact on businesses.

Council also allocated $50,000 to help pay for marketing efforts to emphasize to the public that the mall will be open during the renovation. [13]

See 2009 Mall Renovation Project for more details.

Seating concerns

The original design for the mall called for 150 public seats that could be moved around. When the mall was renovated in 2009, around 30 benches with backs were installed on the Mall. Several of these around Central Place were removed in 2012 to deter vagrancy. In April 2016, the parks department appeared before the Board of Architectural Review to get their approval on replacement seats that would not have backs. The BAR did not support this and the parks department deferred their request. [14] The request came back to the BAR in April 2017 and the BAR voted to officially deny. [15]

Comparison to other pedestrian malls

There are other pedestrian malls in the United States. A group of 19 people from the County, City and the Chamber of Commerce visited Burlington, Vermont in mid-October 2002 to study their pedestrian mall. [16]

In 2012, the Virginia Chapter of the American Society of Landscape Architects designated the mall as an a "2012 Iconic Landscape." [17]

In 2013, the City Council authorized a Downtown Mall Ambassadors program which hired tour guides to help visitors and also to alert police to crime. [18]

Mall Attractions

Major Downtown Mall developments

1959

1970

1971

  • April 13 – In an effort to sway public opinion, the city holds Mall Day to provide a glimpse of life with a pedestrian mall. [19]

1972

  • May 9 – Downtown Charlottesville Inc. presents the mall proposal to skeptical Charlottesville business leaders. [19]

1974

  • February – Two councilors cast votes in favor of building the mall. The three other members abstained because of potential conflicts of interest. [19]
  • December 26 – Construction of the Downtown Mall began. [20]There was significant initial opposition to the mall project, with it described as "a boondoggle, a $2 million mistake, [and] a gift to the ungrateful merchants of Main Street.[21]

1975

  • January 1 – East Main Street is barricaded off, beginning an 18-month construction project. [19]

1976

  • July 3 – Commemorative brick laid in front of the fountain at Central Place during the mall’s dedication ceremony. [19]

1980

1980: – Miller & Rhoads and Leggett, two large department stores, leave the mall for Fashion Square, heralding the worst sales year the Downtown Mall has had since its opening in 1976. [19]

1981

1985

1988

– Opening Second Street West to vehicular traffic is first proposed by consultants hired by the city to analyze traffic and parking needs downtown. [19]

1988

1988

1989

1988-1989

– A declining number of stores downtown leads to the creation of the Charlottesville Downtown Foundation (CDF), Fridays After Five and talks of creating a downtown tax district. [19]

1990

  • January 1 – The Charlottesville Downtown Foundation, a public-private corporation, officially opens, replacing Downtown Charlottesville Inc. [19]2016|publishdate=|accessdate=September 19, 2020}}</ref>
  • May 1 – The Virginia Discovery Museum opens its new Downtown Mall location. [19]

1993

1994

  • Summer – The amphitheater and eastern extension of the mall open. CDF agrees to build a permanent stage for Fridays After Five. [19]
  • August 15 – Against strong public sentiment, the City Council grants a request by Charlottesville 2000, a private group behind the Regal Cinemas movie theater and the Charlottesville Ice Park, to open Second Street West to northbound traffic. [19]

1995

  • April 19 – The first Fridays After Five concert at the new amphitheater on the east end of the mall is held. The concert draws the largest turnout ever: an estimated 4,000 people and 100 dogs. [19]

1996

2000

2003

2004

  • October – Construction of Presidents Plaza begins. [19]
  • December 16 – The historic Paramount Theater reopens after a $14 million restoration. [19]

2005

2006

2007

  • February 28 – University of Virginia graduate Tom Shadyac’s First Street Church Project, LLC purchased and renovated the historic First Christian Church on the corner of Market Street and First Street after spending much of the 2005 in the area filming “Evan Almighty." On January 18, 2020 The Haven at First & Market, a multi-resource day shelter, opened its doors and became an independent nonprofit in 2014. [19]
  • September 5 – CNET founder Halsey Minor buys the former Boxer Learning building to pave the way for the nine-story luxury Landmark Hotel. [19]
  • [ [December 3]] – Charlottesville Chief of Police Tim Longo presented a plan to Charlottesville City Council (2006-2007) for approval to install closed circuit TV cameras on and around the Downtown Mall. Longo’s original proposal to install 30 high-resolution cameras with the ability to zoom, pan and tilt on and around the Mall would cost roughly $300,000. Councilors voted 4-1 to let Longo request bids for a camera system that, unlike the original, would not feed into a centralized system.[23]

2008

  • January 28 – With deteriorating bricks and failing lights and fountains, a renovation proposal that addressed the mall’s problems and explores new features is unveiled. [19]

2009

2011

2012

2013

2015

2016

2018

Images through time

References

  1. Web. Charlottesville Mall Works for Downtown, Kathleen Brunet, News Article, Fredericksburg Free-Lance Star, Fredericksburg, Virginia, November 11, 1986, retrieved January 2, 2017 via Google newspaper archive.
  2. Web. Study of Main Street Mall Proposed by Chamber Unit, Staff Reports, Daily Progress Digitized Microfilm, Lindsay family, October 29, 1959, retrieved January 2, 2017 from University of Virginia Library. Print. October 29, 1959 page 19.
  3. Web. Mall a Reality for Downtown, Dana Gumb, News Article, Cavalier Daily, March 27, 1974, retrieved January 2, 2017 via Google newspaper archive.
  4. Web. Former Councilors Share Memories of Early Days of Downtown Mall, Sean Tubbs and Brian Wheeler, Charlottesville Tomorrow, April 13, 2010, retrieved January 2, 2017.
  5. Print: Physical Growth, Social Strain Mark City's Year, Peter Bacque, Daily Progress, Lee Enterprises January 4, 1976, Page D1.
  6. Print: The Seventies: Central Virginia Ends Decade of Joy and Tragedy, Doug Kamholz, Daily Progress, Worrell Newspaper group January 1, 1980, Page A6.
  7. Web. Charlottesville City Council meeting minutes, .pdf, Council Chambers, City of Charlottesville, May 13, 1980.
  8. Web. Charlottesville City Council meeting minutes, .pdf, Council Chambers, City of Charlottesville, June 2, 1980.
  9. Web. Charlottesville City Council meeting minutes, .pdf, Council Chambers, City of Charlottesville, April 21, 2003.
  10. Web. Charlottesville City Council OKs $100,000 for Downtown Mall risk and threat assessment, Chris Suarez, News Article, Daily Progress, May 22, 2018, retrieved May 28, 2018.
  11. Web. Mall ambassador program cut in proposed city budget, Lauren Berg, Daily Progress, Lee Enterprises, March 7, 2016, retrieved December 31, 2016.
  12. Web. Schematic Design Report for Charlottesville Downtown Mall, Wallace Roberts & Todd, May 2005, retrieved April 26, 2016.
  13. Web. Council agrees to half of $100,000 request for Downtown Mall marketing effort, Charlottesville Tomorrow, October 9, 2008, retrieved July 29, 2014.
  14. Web. City panel seeks more options for Downtown Mall seating, Sean Tubbs, News Article, Charlottesville Tomorrow, April 30, 2016, retrieved January 2, 2017.
  15. Web. Design panel denies backless benches for Downtown Mall, Sean Tubbs, News Article, Charlottesville Tomorrow, April 18, 2017, retrieved May 9, 2017.
  16. Charlottesville City Council Minutes, 6 Jan. 2003. City of Charlottesville, Virginia. Retrieved 14 Jun 2009.
  17. Web. Downtown Mall to be honored Thursday, Daily Progress Staff Reports, Daily Progress, Lee Enterprises, September 30, 2012, retrieved October 8, 2012.
  18. Web. Ambassadors a second set of eyes and ears on the Downtown Mall, Aaron Richardson, Daily Progress, Lee Enterprises, May 6, 2013, retrieved May 6, 2013.
  19. 19.00 19.01 19.02 19.03 19.04 19.05 19.06 19.07 19.08 19.09 19.10 19.11 19.12 19.13 19.14 19.15 19.16 19.17 19.18 19.19 19.20 19.21 19.22 19.23 19.24 19.25 19.26 19.27 19.28 19.29 19.30 19.31 19.32 19.33 19.34 19.35 19.36 19.37 19.38 19.39 19.40 19.41 19.42 19.43 19.44 Web. Timeline: Major Downtown Mall developments, Staff reports, News Article, The Daily Progress, retrieved September 19, 2020.
  20. Print: The Seventies: Central Virginia Ends Decade of Joy and Tragedy, Doug Kamholz, Daily Progress, Worrell Newspaper group January 1, 1980, Page A6.
  21. Print: Physical Growth, Social Strain Mark City's Year, Peter Bacque, Daily Progress, Lee Enterprises January 4, 1976, Page D1.
  22. Web. Charlottesville City Council meeting minutes, .pdf, Council Chambers, City of Charlottesville, April 21, 2003.
  23. https://www.c-ville.com/Mall_Cameras_move_forward_hellipbarely/
  24. https://dailyprogress.com/news/19th-century-city-church-reborn-as-a-house-like-haven-for-needy/article_b3adc353-d54f-566f-9bf9-188680e946b7.html
  25. Web. Atlanta developer snaps up Landmark for $6.25 million, Graelyn Brashear, C-VILLE Weekly, Portico Publications, retrieved February 18, 2016.
  26. Web. Downtown Mall to be honored Thursday, Daily Progress Staff Reports, Daily Progress, Lee Enterprises, September 30, 2012, retrieved October 8, 2012.
  27. Web. Mall ambassador program cut in proposed city budget, Lauren Berg, Daily Progress, Lee Enterprises, March 7, 2016, retrieved December 31, 2016.
  28. Web. Ambassadors a second set of eyes and ears on the Downtown Mall, Aaron Richardson, Daily Progress, Lee Enterprises, May 6, 2013, retrieved May 6, 2013.
  29. Web. Mall ambassador program cut in proposed city budget, Lauren Berg, Daily Progress, Lee Enterprises, March 7, 2016, retrieved December 31, 2016.
  30. Web. Charlottesville City Council OKs $100,000 for Downtown Mall risk and threat assessment, Chris Suarez, News Article, Daily Progress, May 22, 2018, retrieved May 28, 2018.

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