Nov. 28—Members of the Wabash River Planning Partnership, comprised of representatives from the city of Terre Haute, Vigo County, RiverSCAPE and Thrive West Central, convened Tuesday morning at a freezing Fairbanks Park to announce the launch of a 12-month planning process to continue riverfront development.
The planning process's goal is to attract investment, spur development and accelerate enhancements along the Wabash River. The project will consider upgrades to 1,700 acres on both sides of the Wabash.
Lori Danielson, the chair of RiverSCAPE's steering committee, announced a partnership with Stantec, an Indianapolis-based engineering and architecture consulting firm with experience in community development, including riverfront master plans in cities like Fort Wayne, Mishawaka and Indianapolis.
Members of Stantec were among those attending Tuesday's event.
Danielson also announced that the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers has agreed to provide planning expertise and contribute up to 50% of project planning costs.
Among those who spoke were Terre Haute Mayor Duke Bennett, Vigo County Commissioner Mike Morris and Thrive West Central CEO Ryan Keller.
Bennett spoke of spending time in office "laying the groundwork" for the planning process. He added that he worked for three years to get the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers involved.
Over the course of 15 years, RiverSCAPE has overseen the creation of the Wabashiki Fish and Wildlife Area, Bicentennial Park, an enhanced trail system, the Riverfront Lofts and other projects.
"The ultimate goal is to create a vibrant riverfront district that will be unique to the Terre Haute community and all of West Central Indiana," said Danielson. "A strategic planning process like this builds upon both past and present efforts."
A goal is to inspire recreational and entertainment experiences on the waterfront for the next 10-20 years, she added.
Residents can provide input on riverfront development on a survey at wabashriverscape.org.
A community engagement session concerning the project is scheduled for today, Nov. 29, 9 to 10:30 a.m. at the Vigo County History Museum, 929 Wabash Ave.
David Kronke can be reached at 812-231-4232 or at david.kronke@tribstar.com.