The revitalization of the Riverfront and Marina District has enabled the City of Alton, Illinois to return to its historic 19th century river town heritage and provide significant boosts in economic development and tourism for the 21st century. Members of Planning Design Studio have assisted the City of Alton in its efforts to renew and revitalize its riverfront over the last two decades. These efforts have focused on the preparation of the planning and design of a master plan, a public participation program, the design of multiple facilities including a 300-slip marina, an excursion boat mooring, a river-walk promenade, an amphitheater, a public fountain plaza, pavilions, parks, pedestrian walkways and a pedestrian bridge connection to the historic downtown area.

Our staff has also assisted the City with marina feasibility analysis, marina developer selection, development of design guidelines and implementation of well over $30 million in public and private redevelopment on the riverfront. The project management and urban design services for development of the amphitheater were led by PDS staff while employees of Parsons, the design firm of record.