Union Plaza

Union Plaza is a unique urban park located in the heart of Lincoln, Nebraska. Spanning six acres, it stretches over three blocks north of "O" Street between 21st and 22nd Streets. The park was developed as part of the $264 million Antelope Valley Project, which aimed to provide flood control, transportation improvements, economic redevelopment, and community revitalization.

The centerpiece of Union Plaza is a meandering waterway that serves both aesthetic and practical purposes. This waterway, connected to Antelope Creek, is an integral part of the area's flood control system. Several crossings allow visitors to traverse the water feature and explore different sections of the park.

Union Plaza's design concept revolves around the changing nature of water. This theme is expressed through various elements throughout the park, including bollards, planters, and pavement patterns that evoke droplets, splashes, and ripples. The park also incorporates sustainable features such as water-conserving nozzles and LED lights in fountains, photovoltaic cells to power lighting, and permeable pavers to manage runoff.

The park offers a blend of natural and constructed spaces. Visitors can enjoy landscaped areas with native plants, providing a touch of nature in the urban environment. The park's design encourages exploration and discovery, with hidden surprises like animal statues scattered throughout the area.

Union Plaza serves as a gathering place for the community, hosting various events and activities. Its amphitheater, with seating for 200 people, is suitable for concerts, play performances, and other public events. The park is connected to the city's existing trail system, making it a popular spot for runners, walkers, and cyclists.

The Jayne Snyder Trails Center, located within Union Plaza, serves as a hub for city trail users. This two-story building provides public meeting space, restrooms, retail space, and offices for a community health organization.