Close-Up of a Stone Wall Texture

Building the Future: Phases of the Riverfront Vision Plan

Close-Up of a Stone Wall Texture

Building the Future: Phases of the Riverfront Vision Plan

Close-Up of a Stone Wall Texture

Building the Future: Phases of the Riverfront Vision Plan

Step by step, we’re transforming the Topeka Riverfront into a vibrant hub for the community. Explore the key phases of this project and see what’s coming next.

Step by step, we’re transforming the Topeka Riverfront into a vibrant hub for the community. Explore the key phases of this project and see what’s coming next.

Public Engagement

The Topeka Riverfront Vision Plan occurred over the course of 13 months. The timeline allowed for four tasks with numerous meetings and milestones to develop a plan that is well-informed and provides a path forward. Findings of the public engagement portion can be found in the River Engagement section or complete details can be found in the full vision plan.

Phasing & Next Steps

Due Diligence

During the Due Diligence phase, we build upon the Riverfront Vision Plan. This includes refining concepts, floodplain modeling, and conducting infrastructure and economic studies to determine the best development types and scales.

Key Activities

  • Concept refinement based on the Riverfront Vision Plan.
  • Infrastructure study and floodplain modeling.
  • Small area plan and economic study for development mix.

Due Diligence

During the Due Diligence phase, we build upon the Riverfront Vision Plan. This includes refining concepts, floodplain modeling, and conducting infrastructure and economic studies to determine the best development types and scales.

Key Activities

  • Concept refinement based on the Riverfront Vision Plan.
  • Infrastructure study and floodplain modeling.
  • Small area plan and economic study for development mix.

Phasing

A comprehensive phasing plan is developed to guide the project from start to completion. This plan will prioritize tasks and align them with available funding to ensure steady progress.

Key Activities

  • Creating a detailed timeline and prioritization plan.
  • Coordinating project funding with milestones.

Agency Coordination

This phase ensures that all necessary regulatory approvals are in place. We work closely with city, county, state, and federal agencies, including historical preservation organizations, to ensure compliance throughout the process.

Key Activities

  • Ongoing coordination with regulatory agencies.
  • Securing local, state, and federal approvals.

Schematic Design

The schematic design phase refines the project concept using the information gathered during Due Diligence. This ensures the design aligns with regulatory requirements, the community’s vision, and budgetary constraints.

Key Activities

  • Refining the design to meet regulations and budget.
  • Collaborating with project partners to finalize the concept.

Design Development

Design Development finalizes the layout and construction details, with materials and constructability being determined. This is the last step before detailed construction documents are prepared.

Key Activities

  • Finalizing layout and constructability.
  • Selecting materials and final design details.

Permitting

This complex phase involves securing all necessary permits and approvals. Due to the proximity to culturally and environmentally significant areas, coordination with regulatory agencies will be ongoing.

Key Activities

  • Securing local, state, and federal permits.
  • Ongoing agency coordination throughout the process.

Construction Documents

Construction documents will be finalized and prepared for bidding. This phase ensures all design details are complete, and the project is ready to move into construction.

Key Activities

  • Finalizing design details.
  • Preparing bidding documents.

Construction

The construction phase is expected to last 18-24 months, depending on weather and other factors. During this phase, the riverfront will come to life with new parks, bridges, public spaces, and infrastructure.

Key Activities

  • Building parks, trails, bridges, and public spaces.
  • Infrastructure development and installation.

Be Part of the Journey

As we move through each phase, your input and involvement are critical.
Stay updated, join community events, and watch as the riverfront comes to life.

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.

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