The Pulse Memorial Advisory Committee, a group composed of community members, families of victims, and survivors, is actively seeking public input on three proposed designs for the Orlando Pulse memorial. After the onePulse Foundation, originally tasked with creating the memorial, disbanded and sold the site to the city, this new committee was formed to ensure the project's completion, as detailed by ClickOrlando.
Among the proposals discussed on Thursday is a concept that looks to preserve part of the nightclub building within the memorial, focusing on creating a space that is both safe and welcoming. The designs attempt to provide shade and pay homage to the 49 victims of the 2016 mass shooting.
According to WESH, Architect Wayne Dunkelberger of Baker Barrios Architects presented details of one design featuring "an elliptical walkway with a fountain in the middle," accompanied by a visitors’ center and a series of columns representing the 49 victims. Another option discusses transforming the nightclub's form into an outdoor pavilion, with Jay Hood of Catalyst Design Group expressing emotional intention behind columns of light and a lighted mesh fountain at the site.
During the meeting, concerns were voiced over potential vandalism and safety issues. "I worry about vandalism. I worry about graffiti. There is a large homeless population in the area," Nancy Rosado shared with the committee, her words echoing the care that must be taken in realizing such a memorial—a symbol of remembrance and resilience—without it becoming subject to neglect. The design team and city representatives must address these issues before proceeding with a final design.
The committee plans to deliberate further and, based on the input received, narrow down the options in their next meeting, set for December 12.
