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Warren's proposed riverfront redevelopment plan is nearing completion, while organizers continue to focus on fundraising, project development and community input, City Engineer Chad Yurisic told City Council during this week's meeting.
Yurisic said the group overseeing the riverfront initiative is working to finalize the comprehensive plan while developing plans and a fundraising campaign for the various projects envisioned for the area between the Hickory Street Bridge and Conewango Creek.
The riverfront committee met Wednesday to continue discussions about the project's next steps.
During Monday's meeting, council members also asked about the process for selecting a name for the proposed riverfront park. City Manager Mike Holtz said the group did not receive many new options from the recent naming survey.
No final selection has been made, and the group has not yet returned to the naming process in detail.
Holtz stated that the suggestions received so far will be reviewed by the group overseeing the project, but no winner has emerged from the submissions.
With planning and fundraising still taking priority, further consideration of the proposed names is expected to come later in the process.
Organizers have instead concentrated on funding and other planning priorities as they work to advance the broader redevelopment effort.
The proposed master plan envisions a major transformation of Warren's riverfront, expanding recreational opportunities, improving public access to the Allegheny River and creating new spaces for residents and visitors to gather.
The conceptual design includes a boat launch, walking trails, river overlooks, pavilions, a multigenerational playground and improvements to Soldiers and Sailors Park. Other proposed features include kayak storage, restroom facilities and additional green space for community events.
The plan also envisions stronger connections between the riverfront and downtown Warren, with the goal of encouraging visitors to spend time at local businesses while enjoying the river.
Warren City Council adopted the city's comprehensive plan in 2023, identifying riverfront development as a priority for the community's future.
The riverfront project is expected to rely on a combination of public funding, grants, private donations and contributions from businesses and institutions.
One of the first major components is a proposed boat launch, estimated to cost between $3 million and $3.2 million. The project would include space for approximately eight boat trailers, pedestrian parking, a floating dock and an accessible launch.
City officials have expressed hope that the boat launch could be bid and construction could begin in 2027, depending on funding and remaining project requirements.
The overall redevelopment is expected to take place in phases, with some projects potentially moving forward within the next several years and others remaining longer-term goals.
Although the full vision could take years to complete, the project's initial phases are intended to establish momentum for a revitalized riverfront and stronger connections between the Allegheny River and downtown Warren.