By JAN McLAUGHLIN
BG Independent News
The Downtown Forward effort in Bowling Green is looking to transform the city’s connections to its backsides.
That means turning six unlit and uninspired alleyways into walkways adorned by artwork, seating and lighting. Each will be named according to historical connections with former downtown sites such as an opera house, hotel, even an underwear company.
The goal of the alleyway project is to “enhance pedestrian experiences,” Kati Thompson, the city’s economic development director, said Tuesday during a meeting of the Bowling Green Historic Preservation Coalition.
“A key focus of this effort is the transformation of the city’s alleyways into inviting gateways that connect a vibrant downtown to accessible parking,” Thompson said.
The first step will be the installation of metal archway signs showing the name for each alley. Large signs will be erected in the rear of the alleyways, and smaller signs will be placed on Main Street. The signage is expected to be completed this year, according to Thompson.
Cafe lighting is planned for all the alleyways.
The alleyway artwork is expected to be added in 2025, with requests for proposals being issued in September for murals in Dogleg Alley.
“It will be exciting to see the transformation happen,” Thompson said.
Five alleyways with six pedestrian walkways have been selected for sprucing up – with each being given a historically significant name.
Dogleg Alley, which includes two separate walkways adjacent to Finders on North Main Street and Insomnia Cookies on East Wooster Street. The connected walkway has long been informally called Dogleg Alley. “This beloved historical name will now serve as the official designation for this area,” said Lindsay Jo Durham, of Downtown BG.
Union Alley, which extends behind Wildflower Aesthetics, Call of the Canyon and Kalifornia Glow, on the west side of North Main Street. The name recognizes the historical Union Street that once occupied the site on West Wooster Street and was home to the Union Hotel.
Monarch Alley, which is located near the Mini Mall on the southwest block of Main Street. The name selected honors the Monarch Underwear Company, which once produced undergarments in this area. The name also pays homage to the monarch butterfly, symbolizing transformation and beauty.
Opera House Alley, which is the southernmost alleyway on the southeast block of Main Street, formerly an entertainment hub of historic Bowling Green. The name reflects the historic Hankey-Taber Opera House, which brought cultural performances to the community.
Black Swamp Alley, which is located between Juniper Brewing Co. and Beckett’s Burger Bar, connecting the city parking lot to South Main Street. This designation honors both the region’s history as the Great Black Swamp and the ongoing tradition of the Black Swamp Arts Festival.
The alleyway project is being undertaken by Downtown Bowling Green, in partnership with the City of Bowling Green through its Downtown Forward Initiative, and the BG Arts Council.
The alleyway committee’s mission is to “reimagine the city’s alleyways as destinations that enhance the pedestrian experience for both residents and visitors with a primary goal of establishing a scope of work that prioritizes safety and accessibility while also showcasing the creative talent of the region,” Thompson said.
The plan is intended to address the different characteristics of each alleyway while implementing common elements to create a cohesive network throughout the downtown.
