The City of Monona wanted to transform five under-utilized and disjointed commercial properties along the Yahara River into an active, year-round community destination and gathering area. We were chosen to assist the City with this multiyear and multiphase public improvements project.

Significant investment was made into the surrounding infrastructure to support this project. Madison Metropolitan Sewer District’s (MMSD) interceptor line was relocated and the adjacent Inland Way was enhanced with concrete pavement, colored concrete terraces, permeable pavers in parking lanes, decorative lighting, bio-infiltration basins with terraces for stormwater management, and landscape plantings.

The resulting 1.5-acre public plaza offers a wide range of amenities to everyday users and special events, including a river overlook, a large green space that doubles as an ice rink in the winter, kayak/canoe launch, seating areas, performance stage, fire pit, and bicycle repair and bike area. In addition, the site includes “The Current” – a 94-unit luxury residential complex with riverfront restaurants, coffee shop, offices, and boater access – and 92-room business-class AVID hotel.

Unique overhead and up lighting allow the park to be enjoyed after dark. Custom linear benches with integral lighting were designed to add extra lighting and provide ample seating. The park pathway complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act.