PLANNING FOR THE FUTURE
Using historical site context, existing site conditions, and department input, a conceptual activation master plan was developed for the entire property. This plan identified a variety of short and long-term improvements to meet the four key guiding principles of Maintain, Enhance, Program, and Broaden.
​
The initial concept was presented at a public open house on Thursday, April 28, 2022, at the Starr-Gennett Facility at Whitewater Gorge Park. Using the input provided by residents and Department stakeholders, a series of refinements were made to the plan to provide activities and enhancements for park users of all ages and abilities.
​
​As the recommendations were refined, it became clear that improvements to the vast 100-acre property needed to be organized in such a way that aligned future improvements, uses, and programmatic opportunities to the site’s historic and current conditions. To this end, the Whitewater Gorge Activation Plan is comprised of three distinct character and geographic districts, each with its own mix of recreational areas, programmatic opportunities, and tourism destinations.
8
FUNDED PROJECTS
$12,000,000
TOTAL INVESTMENT
2028
COMPLETION
PHASED IMPROVEMENTS
The Whitewater Gorge Activation Masterplan found strategic ways to maintain the existing infrastructure so that it can be enhanced to serve a broader set of visitors and needs. To date, approximately $9.5 million has been awarded to the improvement initiative to fund design, engineering, and construction improvements. The following ongoing projects will build upon the enhancements and signage at Test Road Trailhead to create a state-of-the-art regional destination.
TEST ROAD TRAILHEAD
CONSTRUCTION: MAY 2025 - EARLY 2026
The first phase of work, beginning construction in early 2025, will include an expanded parking lot and drop off zone at Test Road Trailhead, terraced seating area with an observation deck along the Whitewater River, canoe/ kayak launch point along river corridor, pedestrian amenities, interpretive signage, lighting and security infrastructure.
WEIR DAM TRAILHEAD
CONSTRUCTION: EARLY 2026 TO EARLY 2027
The former site of the Weir Dam will be enhanced to serve as a blueway trailhead. Improvements will include new vehicular and trailer parking, a larger paved river overlook, a rustic staircase and accessible ramp leading to the water’s edge, a floating dock for fishing, pedestrian amenities, interpretive signage, lighting, and security infrastructure.
NATURE PLAYGROUND
CONSTRUCTION: EARLY 2027 TO MID 2028
A proposed nature playground will provide year-round activities for all ages. Improvements will include unique play equipment, pedestrian amenities, and lighting and security infrastructure.
BOULDERING GARDEN
CONSTRUCTION: EARLY 2027 TO MID 2028
A proposed bouldering garden, intended for those who age out of a traditional playground, will provide year-round activities for all ages. Improvements will include bouldering rocks of multiple sizes and scales.
RIVER BOARDWALK
CONSTRUCTION: EARLY 2027 TO MID 2028
To allow visitors to interact with the waterway, a new boardwalk will run along the edge of the Whitewater River corridor. Additional river edge enhancements will be made to ensure the natural shoreline remains intact and healthy.
AERIAL ADVENTURE HUB
CONSTRUCTION: EARLY 2027 TO MID 2028
With the addition of a multi-purpose structure, the Test Road Trailhead will be available for vendors to offer aerial tours and paddle rentals. Improvements will include a structure that includes 4 unisex restrooms, storage area and office space.
