Lincoln Entertainment Vision Plan

Lincoln’s Historic Haymarket is a true urban gem, blending the character of a 19th-century warehouse district with the energy of modern-day innovation. This vibrant area has become a hub for food and beverage destinations, creative workspaces, and a thriving startup culture, making it a cornerstone of the city’s identity.

At the heart of this district lies the Railyards—a block-long mixed-use development with immense potential. Adjacent to the Pinnacle Bank Arena, this space was designed as an entertainment anchor for downtown Lincoln, featuring a mix of bars, restaurants, and public gathering spaces, including an outdoor LED video screen. However, like many urban districts, the Railyards faced significant challenges during the pandemic. Declining foot traffic, tenant turnover, and reduced activity left this once-lively space in need of a strategic reboot.

Our work on this project focused on reimagining the Railyards as a dynamic entertainment district that could once again serve as a cultural and economic engine for downtown. Through a comprehensive placemaking approach, we developed strategies to reinvigorate this space by:

• Identifying a new tenant mix to reflect emerging trends and the evolving needs of the community.
• Creating activation plans to ensure the Railyards remains a lively, welcoming destination throughout the day and year-round.
• Exploring urban design improvements to enhance the experience of visitors and residents alike.
• Developing management strategies to sustain long-term vibrancy and ensure seamless operations.

This effort is about more than revitalizing a single block—it’s about strengthening the Historic Haymarket’s role as a gathering place where Lincoln’s community and visitors alike can experience culture, creativity, and connection. By bringing people and tenants back to the Railyards, we aim to ensure its success as a beacon of vitality for Lincoln’s downtown.