Denver has embarked on an ambitious plan for Confluence Park. The birthplace of the City will be honored in a way that steps beyond the current configuration with dramatic thought, augmented by extensive public input. The Confluence Park Master Plan is in its final stages of design, and the expectation for its ‘tomorrow’ is described by Landscape Architects for the project, Wenk Associates:
The Confluence Park Master Plan includes short term (0-5 year), mid-term (5-10 year), and long term (10-20 year) projects that position it as the outdoor adventure destination for downtown Denver. At the confluence of two regional trail systems that serve an expanding trail network and direct access to more than 100 miles of existing trails, the Park will continue to serve as a hub and destination for regional activity. Continued development of Downtown, Union Station and the Highlands neighborhood put Confluence Park at the center of regional recreational and transportation connectivity.
Denver’s riverfront and beach represent iconic elements of Denver’s continuum: its first settlement, worst flood, and current and wildly applauded integration of urban and natural, residential and commercial, lifestyle and outdoor recreation.
The master planning effort intended to:
- Create a river-focused urban environment that is healthy, habitable and connected
- Create a park for urban living that reflects the history and culture of Denver
- Enhance the safety of the river corridor and the surrounding area
- Create a sense of place and community focal point that increases economic vitality
- Connect neighborhoods, public facilities, and businesses by creating local and regional links
- Improve aquatic and terrestrial habitat to sustain wildlife movement, food and shelter.
In Phase I, MWDG has contributed the following:
- Conceptual design for whitewater course
- Conceptual design for a low flow recreational channel adjacent to whitewater course
- Hydraulic analysis and floodplain modeling
- Water quality enhancement features to meet S. Platte River standards
- Cost estimating
Phase II will begin soon. We will provide design support for the replacement of the existing ramps and design of the abutment and the whitewater drop adjacent to Shoemaker Plaza!
