Topeka Partnership Launches Kansas Riverfront Activation Plan, Looks To Engage Community Throughout Project Timeline
The Greater Topeka Partnership, under the direction of the Topeka Riverfront Advisory Council, is pleased to launch the Topeka Riverfront Activation Plan project. Riverfront activation is a key initiative of Topeka and Shawnee County’s latest community strategy, Momentum 2027.
The Topeka Riverfront Activation Plan will review existing conditions around the riverfront, develop innovative concepts, and create an implementable activation plan that will enhance the region’s core through diversified live-work-play environments, connected community spaces, and improved quality of place. The goal of this river master plan is to establish the riverfront as a vibrant district that supports growth and economic development, connections to nature, recreation, and reinvestment in surrounding neighborhoods.
“The time to transform the riverfront is now,” said Ashley Gilfillan, director of river strategies for The Partnership. “Previous efforts to redevelop the riverfront were well-intentioned but failed to come to fruition. Convergence of the right partners to move this initiative forward has uniquely positioned us to bring the next big idea to life for Topeka now. Our riverfront is a blank canvas. We are partnering with consultant Bolton & Menk, Inc. to transform it into a functional, forward-thinking space that will support a thriving Topeka now and into the future.”
“We are thrilled to be a part of the Topeka riverfront transformation,” said Bolton & Menk Strategic Development Director Staci Williams. “We believe all people should live in safe, sustainable, and beautiful communities. When it comes to reimagining the riverfront, listening to the community and developing an understanding of the various perspectives is vital to creating solutions that work. The project team is committed to ensuring equity and inclusion are considered in both our public process and our design solutions.”
Public input is a key component of the project and will be ongoing through much of the process.
“The Topeka community is at the center of this process,” Gilfillan said. “We achieve the greatest results when all stakeholders—residents, businesses, and nonprofit organizations—work together. Strong community input will guide the development of the Riverfront Activation Plan and maximize the once-in-a-generation impact it will bring to Topeka.”
The public is invited to take advantage of digital and in-person engagement activities to share ideas, opportunities, and challenges that will inform concept development. The recently created website MyTopekaRiverfront.com will be updated regularly throughout the project and features news and upcoming-event information, email/text subscription registration, and an interactive comment map. Feedback will be analyzed to determine common themes and goals that will then be used to craft a vision for the Riverfront Activation Plan.
