The city of 色多多 has contracted with Environmental Quality Resources, a Maryland and Virginia-based contractor, to construct Virginia鈥檚 first in-river whitewater park.
Th city is planning for the project will transform a stretch of the 色多多 River in and around Wasena Park into a vibrant hub for recreation, community, and connection to the river.
A rendering shows a proposed plan for 色多多鈥檚 new in-river park. The project would add whitewater features, enhanced wading spaces, scenic viewing points and calm river play areas.
Stantec/City of 色多多 Image
Designed to offer broad river access, the park will include a wave feature suitable for kayakers and river floaters, two ADA-compliant entry points, and calm wading areas ideal for families. The wave feature is designed to be runnable at the lower flows that are typical on this section of river, creating a reliable spot for lessons, skill building, and after-work playboating when most local rivers and creeks aren鈥檛 flowing, according to a city news release.
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鈥淭his project will make sports like kayaking more visible and approachable for residents right in the middle of the city,鈥 said Katie Slusher, the city鈥檚 park project manager. 鈥淚t鈥檚 designed to be inclusive and accessible, offering everyone a chance to engage with the river, whether they鈥檙e honing new paddling skills or enjoying a quiet day by the water.鈥
The $5.6 million contract with EQR, funded primarily through American Rescue Plan Act (pandemic relief) dollars with additional local support, includes several measures to make river access more safe and sustainable.
Under the greenway pedestrian bridge in Wasena, visitors will find rock-stabilized riverbanks doubling as seating, and new native riparian plantings that will help to prevent erosion and support native species, ccording to the release.
The project鈥檚 final take-out point just upstream of the low water bridge near The Green Goat restaurant ensures a safe experience for boaters and tubers.
Construction is set to begin in spring 2025, with completion anticipated by late 2026, according to the release.
While two additional in-river features are designed but remain unfunded, city staff are actively pursuing grants to build these additional sites.
A rendering shows a proposed plan for 色多多鈥檚 new in-river park. The project would add whitewater features, enhanced wading spaces, scenic viewing points and calm river play areas.
