RiverLoop Amphitheater & Trails
Waterloo, Iowa
Winner of a Merit Award from the American Society of Landscape Architecture, 2013
Using Vision Iowa Funding and a local match, Waterloo completed a downtown and riverfront revitalization project termed “River Renaissance.” A recipient of a 2013 Central States ASLA Merit Award, this $23 million project has dramatically changed the appearance and function of the Cedar River in downtown Waterloo and consists of three basic elements. The Cedar River Plaza and Amphitheater includes a 2400 square foot performance area with stadium seating and a 10,000 square foot elevated plaza area. The Riverwalk Loop consists of new and existing recreational trails that serve as the final link in nearly 80 miles of recreational trails through the metropolitan area, and a connection with the Cedar Valley Nature Trail and Cedar Rapids. The downtown segments of the RiverLoop include an integrated network of bike paths and pedestrian walkways, scenic overlooks with interpretive signage, and enhanced features such as decorative paving, lighting, signing, shade structures, informational kiosks, and landscaping. The Cedar River Dam and adjacent river walls were rehabilitated and new inflatable gates on the dam allow an increase of the pool elevation behind the dam by approximately four feet to enhance recreational boating opportunities. Throughout the process, we provided several opportunities for Cedar Valley residents to provide input in the design process and solution to create a more universal sense of pride and ownership in this exciting downtown development.
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RiverLoop Expo Plaza
Waterloo, Iowa
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Sac & Fox Overlook
Hardin County, Iowa
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John Deere Tractor & Engine Museum at Techworks Campus
Waterloo, Iowa