Redevelopment Commission approves contract for riverfront development

Work on developing the Columbus riverfront between Second and Third Streets is ongoing.

The Columbus Redevelopment Commission voted this week to approve a contract with Hitchcock Design Group to continue work on the proposal at a cost not to exceed $567,000.

Hitchcock’s project team was tasked with developing an aesthetic for the riverfront redevelopment concept that strikes a balance between the modern design of the Robert N. Stewart Second Street Bridge and the historic pumphouse. The design is meant to improve access to and along the river while creating opportunities for engagement. The team is also working on plans to remove the low-head dam to improve river water quality, safety and navigation.

The current project schedule is anticipating permit approval from the Indiana Department of Natural Resources in April. Contract bidding on the more than $8 million project is expected between April and June of 2020. The project is slated to close out in January of 2022, with post-construction improvements continuing through Fall of 2023.

Council approved the contract with Hitchcock on a unanimous vote. The Columbus City Council will need to give final approval, as the price tag is over the amount the redevelopment commission can spend without council approval.

Council next meets on Jan. 7.