| William J. Clinton Presidential
Center The William J. Clinton Presidential Center is located within a new, landscaped, 27-acre public park along the south bank of the Arkansas River. The integrated architectural and site design transforms the former industrial site of old warehouses and undeveloped open space to create a presidential complex that formally and programmatically expresses the optimism and achievements of the Clinton presidency. Further, significant urban design and historic preservation goals are realized: the complex maximizes public park acreage, responds to its riverfront location, connects downtown Little Rock with North Little Rock, and preserves an historic railroad station and railroad bridge. The main building is elevated above the ground plane, allowing the park, which includes areas for both passive and active recreation and engagement with the river and the landscape, to flow beneath the building. Its bridge-like form emphasizes the idea of connection and refers to the Six Bridges that cross the River; the principal entrance is on axis with East Markham Street, emphasizing the link to downtown. Principal spaces include permanent and temporary exhibitions, education and media center, and cafe. The archive is linked to the main building and includes research and collection storage facilities. The Clinton Public Policy Institute and the Clinton School of Public Service occupy the refurbished Choctaw Station, and the restored Rock Island Railroad Bridge will create a pedestrian river crossing. Awards |
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