TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV) – A new role has been created to bring the Riverfront Development Master Plan transitions from vision to reality, activating the Wabash riverfront for the benefit of the community.
According to a news release provided by the city of Terre Haute, the Wabash Riverfront has appointed Lori Danielson as the new Riverfront Development Director.
Danielson, a longtime business leader and advocate for community development, will lead efforts to implement the master plan, which has been in the works since late 2023. Developed through a collaboration between the City of Terre Haute, Vigo County, RiverScape, and Thrive West Central, the plan development was guided by expert input from Stantec, a globally recognized planning firm, and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
“Lori brings a wealth of leadership experience, and she knows our community,” explained Mayor Sakbun. “We’re all pleased that she’s taken on this role to help drive implementation of our riverfront master plan. We have always known that this would be a long-term project. Without an individual in charge of implementation, this plan will not come to fruition. We are confident this is a necessary step in revitalizing our riverfront.”
According to the news release, leadership and funding for the planning effort was provided by the City, County, and RiverScape, along with in-kind funding from the US Army Corp of Engineers, illustrating the importance of this project to these stakeholder groups. Thrive West Central provided a valuable project management role, helping to guide the consultant selection and planning process. The Wabash Riverfront Master Plan was shaped through extensive community engagement, ensuring that its recommendations reflect the desires and needs of local residents. The plan establishes a long-term vision for revitalizing the riverfront, outlining redevelopment opportunities and strategies to enhance infrastructure, improve accessibility, and activate public spaces along the Wabash River.
Key components of the plan include:
· Redevelopment sites identified for investment and revitalization
· Infrastructure improvements to make the riverfront more accessible and sustainable
· Strategies for integrating the riverfront with existing community assets and plans
· Recommendations for long-term sustainable development
The primary study area covers a two-and-a-half-mile stretch along the Wabash River starting north from Cherry Street to I-70 along 1st Street and Prairieton Road, with additional study areas extending further north, south, and west.
“Advancing the organizational structure to carry out this plan with a dedicated team to connect these efforts to other community initiatives is crucial for success. Communities that invest in their riverfronts consistently realize significant economic and social benefits,” Danielson explained.
Danielson will report to a newly formed Governance Board made up of public, private, and nonprofit leadership. In addition, an Operations Team is being formed to focus on plan implementation, and members of the public, private, and community at large are invited to get involved.
According to the news release, the implementation of the Wabash Riverfront Master Plan represents a generational opportunity to transform the riverfront into a vibrant and accessible space that attracts investment and enhances the quality of life. To learn more, the community is invited to join for a celebration and unveiling of the Riverfront Master Plan on Wednesday, April 23, from 4:30-6 pm in the Hulman Center Atrium located at 200 N 8th St in Terre Haute. This event is free and open to the public. For further inquiries or to get involved with riverfront development initiatives, please contact Lori Danielson at lori@riverfrontterrehaute.com.
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