Boston over the years has found many creative ways to spruce up the bleak brick desert that is City Hall Plaza.
The wind-whipped slab in its time has welcomed thousands to the Boston Calling music extravaganza, a steady rotation of food festivals and, this summer, a giant carpet of Astroturf.
But soon, according to a proposal from the owners of the TD Garden, the plaza could welcome a towering Ferris wheel.
The city announced on Thursday it picked a bid from Delaware North Companies, the sports-arena’s operator, to revitalize the plaza for the duration of a three-year contract.
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“An observation wheel as a part of this proposal might seem like an unexpected option,” Delaware North wrote in its bid, “but it might just be the concept that will jumpstart the vitality needed for City Hall Plaza.”
Among many ideas, the bid seeks to add a hip restaurant, a marquee with the word “Boston” in big block letters and a series of art installations – beginning with glowing, musical see-saws.
For the summer, the bid proposes an “urban beach” complete with sand and a boardwalk.
In the winter, plans include a windy ice skating track, curling rink, “winter cabanas” and places to warm up and drink hot chocolate.
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None of those ideas are final.
The proposal would maintain the plaza’s status as a concert venue, and city officials have said work in the area would not cost taxpayer money.