Newly Released Survey on Polk-Quincy Viaduct Activation
With plans underway to reconstruct Topeka’s Polk-Quincy Viaduct, Downtown Topeka Inc. is seeking community feedback that will help determine how best to activate the area beneath the bridge once construction is complete. DTI is asking community members to complete the following online survey to offer input on how best to create a space around the viaduct that is dynamic, engaging and interactive.
The survey may be accessed here.
“DTI’s goal is to help stand up an innovative space that is lively and welcoming to all,” said Rhiannon Friedman, DTI president. “We don’t want the area beneath the bridge to sit there untouched. Whether we end up with a recreational space, an outdoor urban eatery, art installations or something else entirely, will depend on community members’ input. We hope to help create something unique that serves the Topeka community for years to come.”
The Polk-Quincy Viaduct survey takes just 2-3 minutes to complete, and the results will be instrumental in further transforming the downtown Topeka corridor. The survey is expected to remain open through the end of August.
“I’m proud to see downtown Topeka constantly growing and evolving,” said Karen Hiller, Topeka City Council member for District 1, which includes the downtown area. “The Polk-Quincy Viaduct project presents a unique opportunity for the community to reimagine how we see and use the areas beneath this bridge, which cuts through the downtown core. I’m excited to see what ideas we pursue.”
“ArtsConnect is committed to supporting the activation of places in Topeka that make our city brighter and more inclusive,” said Sarah Fizell, executive director of ArtsConnect. “It's very exciting to see that DTI is focused on these same goals for activating the viaduct space. I hope we will see murals and other art projects transform an underused space into a place that is a center for activity and entertainment — a place where residents and visitors feel included and excited to be a part of Top City.”
DTI will work closely with its local and state partners to see potential projects through. The organization hopes to utilize major federal transportation funds to drive development. Legal restrictions and safety measures will be considered when determining the final proposal. More information on the Polk-Quincy Viaduct project is available at PolkQuincy.org.
