Pekin Riverfront Park

The City of Pekin hired Farnsworth Group to help design an aggressive redevelopment of its formerly industrial riverfront. Realizing the natural value and history of the Illinois River, as well as the importance of linking it to the adjacent downtown area, Farnsworth Group created a park that featured geometrical civic spaces blending into areas for passive and active recreational use.

The design solution included a paver plaza area surrounding a gazebo and an interactive stone wall fountain. Nearby, an event meadow was framed by a circular walking path that reflected a raised stage and river overlook. These spaces provided the city with a range of opportunities for small festivals and larger concerts. Walkways and plazas included amenities such as benches, trash receptacles, and ornamental lighting. Below the promenade along the river bluff, the design included a bike path, a fishing pier, and open areas situated within native prairie and riparian plantings.