Watertown, WI, January 26, 2024 – The Redevelopment Authority (RDA) of the City of Watertown is pleased to announce an open invitation for experienced and qualified economic development and design firms to submit proposals for the Downtown River Corridor Opportunity Analysis and Strategic Development Plan.
This ambitious project is aimed at revitalizing Watertown's Downtown River Corridor area along the Rock River. The initiative seeks to conduct a comprehensive analysis and create a strategic development plan that will enhance the river corridor's aesthetic, economic, and recreational potential. The project will build upon recently completed downtown enhancements, including the construction of the Bentzin Family Town Square, the renovation and expansion of the Watertown Public Library, and the upcoming WisDOT reconstruction of the Main Street (Cole) Bridge in 2024.
The proposals should not only focus on immediate improvements but should also adopt a long-term and forward-thinking outlook, aligning with the 2028 complete reconstruction of Main Street. Additionally, proposals should ensure the preservation of Watertown's Historic Downtown area's nature and character.
Key components of the project will include conducting an opportunity analysis of the area approximately between the Milwaukee Street Bridge and the Cady Street Bridge (including a two-block area on each side of the Rock River) identifying key sites for potential redevelopment and evaluating infrastructure. Work will also include designing the layout for a future continuation of a previously proposed riverwalk extension. The selected firm will also engage in proposing amenities enhancement, evaluation of the current riverfront, and identifying any existing environmental issues. There will also be a public engagement component to the planning work.
The Redevelopment Authority looks forward to receiving innovative and comprehensive proposals that will contribute to the transformative development of Watertown's Downtown River Corridor. Submissions are due by March 15, 2024, and additional details can be found at watertownredevelopment.org.
For media inquiries, please contact: Mason Becker, RDA Executive Director, mbecker@watertownwi.gov.