City Council has approved the next step in the redevelopment of the Allegheny Riverfront, voting to hire a consulting firm to create a comprehensive master plan aimed at guiding future investment and design.

During a Monday’s council meeting, representatives outlined a proposal to engage a professional firm following a competitive review process. Officials emphasized that the selection was not based solely on price, but also on experience, familiarity with the community and past performance.

The chosen firm, Pashek/Larson Karle Architects, was recommended due to its established track record working with the city and its local connections. The total cost of the master plan is $39,330, with the Warren County Chamber of Business and Industry committing $20,000 toward the effort. The city will cover the remaining $19,330 from its general fund.

City leaders described the riverfront project as a “community-driven initiative” that has been shaped by years of public input, including a survey that generated roughly 40 potential ideas for development. The master plan will help refine those ideas into realistic, buildable concepts and produce professional renderings that can be shared with residents, investors and potential donors.

Mayor Dave Wortman and council members stressed that the consulting firm will not make final decisions about the project. Instead, it will provide expertise and visual concepts to help the city and community evaluate options. The process will include multiple public engagements and ongoing collaboration with local boards such as the planning commission and parks, recreation and landscape committee.

Some council members raised concerns about timing, questioning whether the city should further narrow down project ideas before hiring consultants. Others argued that professional guidance is necessary to effectively prioritize and visualize possibilities, noting that outside expertise could introduce new ideas not previously considered.

Officials also highlighted the importance of the master plan in securing future funding. With early phases of the riverfront project underway, leaders said a clear, professionally developed vision is critical to attracting grants, private investment and support.

Following discussion, council unanimously approved the motion to hire the consulting firm and allocate the city’s share of funding.