Since preparing the master plan for Peoria’s riverfront in 2018, TERRA has created a design vision to revitalize an underutilized 26-acre parcel along the Illinois River. Recognizing the extent of the asset the riverfront is and can be as a catalyst for economic development and recreational function, the TERRA team developed an innovative and resilient plan that establishes the Peoria riverfront as a center for community activity and an economic catalyst for the historic downtown. TERRA’s riverfront plan is mindful of the relationship between downtown Peoria and the Illinois River, respecting existing investments, fostering connections between the public, nature, and area businesses, and advocating long-term benefits for the citizens of Peoria.  

A core focus has been to develop a plan that responds to flood concerns creating a resilient design solution. The plan respects that portions of the park will flood and establishes design features that will enable the Park District to bring the park back online as quickly and efficiently as possible. This has been envisioned through the selection of materials, surfacing, and plantings that can withstand the flood waters. In addition, TERRA team successfully received FEMA grant funding in 2023 for a flood wall control system at the historic former train depot - the River Station - and its construction will be the first phase of the project. Serving as prime consultant to the City of Peoria, this park captures TERRA’s multidisciplinary strengths from landscape architecture, site, structural, and electrical engineering and surveying. The park will include many custom features from a pavilion, gateway plaza, river promenade, adventure park, family swings, floating barge, sculpture park, and kayak launch.