When Kotsu Center closed for reconstruction in 2015, the buses had to go somewhere, so a large, temporary terminal was created in front which included an event area proving so popular that 334 events have been held there to date.
Now that the buses are gone, the city has decided to spiffy it up a bit with artificial turf and other facilities, thus spanning the distance from Karashima Park and Hanabata Park. Considering its popularity as an event space, the work will be done in sections, allowing those not under construction to still be utilized. Work is expected to be complete in autumn 2021 and will greatly aid revitalization of that area.
Now, I hope attention will be paid towards pedestrian-friendly connections between Hanabata and the train station in Kasuga. That could easily follow Tsuboi river. - William