SAN ANGELO, TX — The City of San Angelo has launched a master planning process for its downtown River Parks, with the goal of transforming the riverfront into a connected civic landscape that integrates nature, culture and daily life.
Consultants from SWA Group outlined the project vision during a public presentation posted to the city’s YouTube channel. The plan covers Santa Fe Park — identified as the heart of the project — and other city-owned parcels along the Concho River waterfront.
“The San Angelo downtown River Parks master plan will transform the existing River Parks into a connected civic landscape that brings nature, culture, daily life together,” an SWA Group representative said in the presentation.
Planners highlighted three main themes: ecology, culture and connectivity. Ecological goals include habitat restoration, native plantings and resilient riparian systems to revive prairies and wildlife along the river. Cultural elements would feature flexible spaces for community events, public art, heritage interpretation, adventure play areas, recreation opportunities and nature-based play spaces for families. Connectivity improvements would better link the parks to downtown, reduce traffic in the area, with the hopes of potentially spurring new restaurants, hotels and tourism.
The firm is drawing inspiration from riverfront revitalizations in Greenville, South Carolina; Fort Wayne, Indiana; Bentonville, Arkansas; and Austin’s Waller Creek.
The process begins with public listening and feedback. Planners will develop initial concepts, refine them based on community input and deliver a final master plan later this year.
The City of San Angelo is inviting residents to help shape the future of our downtown river parks by participating in a brief online survey.
"Community feedback is an essential part of developing the Downtown River Parks Master Plan, ensuring the final vision truly reflects the needs and priorities of the people who use these spaces every day," information from the city states.
Survey link: menti.com/aldj6zfkv82x
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