A Vision for Topeka’s Riverfront
A Vision for Topeka’s Riverfront
A Vision for Topeka’s Riverfront
Transforming Space, Connecting Communities
Transforming Space, Connecting Communities
Our bold vision is to create a riverfront that unites, inspires, and grows Topeka for generations to come.
Our bold vision is to create a riverfront that unites, inspires, and grows Topeka for generations to come.
Building for the Future
Building for the Future
The Topeka Riverfront Activation Plan is designed to transform our city’s heart, turning an untapped natural resource into a thriving community hub. Our vision is to enhance Topeka’s quality of life, drive economic development, and foster a deeper connection between the city and its river.
This project is by Topekans, for Topekans. It’s about creating shared spaces that bring people together across generations.
By developing vibrant public spaces, we’re paving the way for local businesses, tourism, and long-term job growth.
We are reimagining our relationship with the river, focusing on conservation, sustainability, and smart design to benefit future generations.
Key Pillars of the Vision
Foster Connections to Nature
Reconnect the community to the Kaw River with green spaces, river access, nature-based play areas, and more.
Support Economic Development
Create spaces for restaurants, entertainment venues, retail, and housing to drive local growth and tourism.
Improve Recreational Opportunities
Expand trails, provide water access, and create spaces for activities like kayaking, fishing, and ecotourism.
Enhance Quality of Place
Build vibrant public spaces for casual gatherings, art installations, and cultural programming that reflect our heritage.
Promote Pedestrian-Friendly Routes
Improve walkability and connectivity with new trails and an iconic pedestrian bridge connecting NoTo and downtown.
Foster Connections to Nature
Reconnect the community to the Kaw River with green spaces, river access, nature-based play areas, and more.
Support Economic Development
Create spaces for restaurants, entertainment venues, retail, and housing to drive local growth and tourism.
Improve Recreational Opportunities
Expand trails, provide water access, and create spaces for activities like kayaking, fishing, and ecotourism.
Enhance Quality of Place
Build vibrant public spaces for casual gatherings, art installations, and cultural programming that reflect our heritage.
Promote Pedestrian-Friendly Routes
Improve walkability and connectivity with new trails and an iconic pedestrian bridge connecting NoTo and downtown.
Visualizing the Future: Concept Renderings
Visualizing the Future: Concept Renderings
What This Vision Means for
Topeka
What This Vision Means for
Topeka
What This Vision Means for
Topeka
Economic Growth
This vision emphasizes local business growth and tourism as key drivers for job creation in Topeka. For instance, the public spaces, retail opportunities, and performance venues will likely generate hundreds of new jobs through businesses, events, and maintenance.
- Short-Term (Construction Phase): 200-400 estimated temporary jobs.
- Long-Term (Post-Completion): 250-450 estimated permanent jobs spanning hospitality, business growth, and public space management.
The creation of public gathering spaces, cultural events, and enhanced accessibility (such as pedestrian bridges) will increase foot traffic in the downtown and riverfront areas. Increased tourism will drive revenue for local shops, dining, and entertainment venues.
- Tourism growth: A projected 20% increase in foot traffic and tourism is possible based on similar projects in other cities.
- Retail and dining: New riverfront dining options and market spaces are highly ranked in public surveys
Community Impact
New recreational spaces will provide areas for families and individuals to engage in activities such as walking, jogging, kayaking, and picnicking. These amenities create healthier, more active communities and foster social interaction.
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- Trails and spaces: 2 miles of new walking and biking trails.
- New parks: The addition of approximately 5 new parks and recreational spaces.
By creating gathering spaces and incorporating art, performance areas, and cultural programs, the project will connect neighborhoods like NOTO and downtown. The project will serve as a social hub for the entire community.
- Public gathering spaces: Several community plazas and performance venues are included, ensuring spaces for families, artists, and local businesses to thrive
Environmental Stewardship
The plan includes green stormwater infrastructure and native plantings to preserve the natural beauty of the river while promoting sustainability.
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- Native plantings: 50,000 native plants to support local wildlife and biodiversity.
- Stormwater management: Green infrastructure that helps reduce flooding risks and improves water quality.
Be the first to know about upcoming events, project updates, and ways you can get involved.
Stay tuned for community events, open houses, and opportunities to provide feedback on the project.
