The Riverfront As Integrated Art

The Downtown Davenport Partnership (DDP) and Figge Art Museum, in cooperation with the City of Davenport, presented a proposal that integrates public art concepts into the design and development of the RiverVision plan and ongoing riverfront improvements. Produced in conjunction with RDG Dahlquist Art Studio, a division of RDG Planning & Design of Des Moines, the plan focuses on the Davenport riverfront portion known as Main Street Landing from Harrison to Pershing Streets.

The goal of the project is to integrate an artistic vision into the ongoing design and development of the RiverVision plan, ensuring greater opportunities for the public to engage and enjoy the Mississippi riverfront and downtown.  Further, the proposal seeks to develop an overall story for the riverfront that will establish it as an iconic destination and bolster its connection with downtown Davenport and the entire Quad Cities.

“This proposed update to RiverVision was a thorough process and has great potential to create new private and public investment for years to come,” said Kyle Carter, Executive Director of the Downtown Davenport Partnership. “The hard work of building public support, fundraising models, and execution of the big idea remain, but it all starts with a shared vision.”

“The undulating currents and whiling eddies of the Mississippi are echoed in the contours of the riverfront, offering new destinations for recreation and reflection, entertainment and events,” said David Dahlquist, RDG Dahlquist Art Studio. “The concept builds upon previous studies to connect the riverfront with downtown Davenport and the Figge Art Museum, inviting people to gather at the river’s edge and to explore multi-use venues. The Skybridge is a primary link to the pavilion, sky deck, event lawn, and more.”

The proposed 9-phase project has a projected $53 million total investment (excluding Phase 1 & 2, which are ongoing investments). The plan design is intended to be resilient in flooding and provide unique views during flood events, and is responsive to existing utilities.

• Construction of Celebration Plaza – flexible event space and adjacent lot improvements (Phase1 & 2)
• Skydeck Pavilion & Main Street Promenade ($9.8M)
• Skydeck Pavilion provides opportunity for public/private restaurant and event space
• Main Street Events Lawn & River Edge Public Art ($6.5M)
• Sculptural frameworks are thoughtfully integrated throughout, engaging people with beautiful views of their community and realigning perspectives
• Sculptural frame concept provides opportunity for additional riverfront sculptures throughout each Quad Cities riverfront modified to each community’s unique vision
• Upstream River Edge, Promenade & Public Art ($9M)
• Playgrounds, Natural Discovery, Promenades (7.5M)
• River Access, Promenade, Transition to LeClaire Park ($5.6M)
• Urban Lounge Park ($2.2M)
• Mirror Plaza ($11M)
• The riverfront proposal would enable significant new private/public investment opportunities downtown. Funding this proposal will require leadership from both the private and public sector.

The proposal was presented at a meeting February 15, 2019 hosted by Davenport Mayor and City Council, DDP Board, and Figge Art Museum Board, and includes additional stakeholders: Davenport Riverfront Improvement Commission, Parks & Recreation Advisory Board, Historic Preservation Commission, Design Review Board, and the Q2030 Riverfront Work Group. All parties saw the proposal simultaneously with the public. This coalition of civic and private organizations has never met all at once, which is itself a historic and exciting moment.

Download the full proposal