Jefferson Square
Jefferson Square Map
About Jefferson Square in Louisville
Jefferson Square Park, located in downtown Louisville, Kentucky, is a significant 1-acre urban green space. It is situated near City Hall and surrounded by private and governmental offices, making it a central gathering place with a mix of cultural, historical, and civic importance. Built in 1978, the park serves as a memorial to first responders who have died in the line of duty. It features various tributes, including a memorial wall and garden. Most notably, the park was a focal point for the 2020 racial justice protests, earning the nickname "Injustice Square Park." A historic marker now commemorates the demonstrations and the stories of figures such as Breonna Taylor, reflecting its role in local and national movements for equity and reform.
The park also includes landscaping and an interactive water feature that was once a central attraction, although it is no longer operational. Recent proposals aim to redesign the space with sustainable green infrastructure, native plantings, and improved amenities to better serve the community. Jefferson Square Park continues to host civic events, including annual gatherings like Light Up Louisville, ensuring its relevance as a public space for both reflection and celebration.