Lawrence officials will consider whether to move forward with a new plaza and recreation area concept along the portion of the Kansas River that borders downtown.
The Lawrence Journal-World reports that the city has budgeted $2 million this year to repair the Kansas River dam and address riverbank erosion south of the dam. The city could stabilize the riverbank by building a terraced stone plaza instead of rebuilding the existing retaining wall.
The plaza would create river entry points and extend slightly into the river, which would facilitate pools and whitewater for kayaking and other water activities.
Assistant City Manager Brandon McGuire says city officials are asking potential contractors for the most economical way to address both the dam and riverbank stabilization projects, while possibly integrating the recreational concept. According to public works officials, if the water treatment plant fails it could mean water outages for thousands of people.
(Read more: KAKE – News)