Our Work

Downtown River Greenway Master Plan

The City of Sioux Falls created a comprehensive greenway and riverfront master plan and Confluence was selected to prepare a more in-depth study of the downtown section of the plan which features three major redevelopment projects. As part of this planning process, we worked with public and private stakeholders to identify issues and build consensus.

The goal of this plan was to increase pedestrian access to the Sioux River and enhance the river edge by incorporating upper and lower trails. Also included in the plan are an amphitheater, plazas for public and private use, replacement of the pedestrian bridge, and interpretive marker opportunities. Once complete, the project will create a riverfront trail loop between Falls Park and Fawick Park on both sides of the river.  This vision will create important infrastructure for downtown and riverfront redevelopment to support entertainment, recreation, and economic development opportunities.

Upon acceptance of the refined master plan, Confluence was retained to begin Phase I design implementation. This phase of the Downtown River Greenway project creates an urban river walk on the east bank. A small gathering space is the focal point of the project and consists of an arc shaped stone wall projecting into the river and an amphitheater for small events. It is flanked on both sides by a stepped river edge to allow easy access to the water while also providing an informal sitting area. Interpretive light piers create night interest and include panels to educate users about the history of downtown and the river.

A new 200-foot single span pedestrian bridge replaces an old railroad bridge that impeded river flow during flood events. This new bridge completes a pathway from the East Bank district to Falls Park West and also serves as a bypass trail during large events that may impede trail use. Access to the bike trail in the downtown area will be improved through two new ADA compliant ramps and two new stairways. As many boaters use this site as a landing point, a canoe and kayak landing was also incorporated in response to requests made during the community involvement process.  Native quartzite stone will be used to construct the center amphitheater and incorporated as an accent throughout the project. This material is an important element to relate to the historic downtown context while also complementing the natural stone outcroppings visible on the site.

The public has been very receptive to the redevelopment of downtown Sioux Falls over the past 10 years. The Downtown River Greenway is an investment that builds on recent successes.  Through continued public support and funding and cooperation with adjacent private development, this completed vision will become a vital asset for the community for years to come.

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