2007 RiverEdge Park Master Plan (City of Aurora, prepared by Aurora River Edge Collaborative)

The RiverEdge Park Master Plan outlines a bold and transformative vision for downtown Aurora, centered on revitalizing the Fox River corridor into a vibrant regional park and cultural destination. The plan proposes a series of integrated landscapes and civic spaces that reconnect Aurora’s east and west neighborhoods while embracing the river as the city’s defining natural asset. Key elements include a dramatic pedestrian bridge, a major outdoor performance venue, restored wetlands, and multi-functional public markets and gathering spaces. These features are designed not only to celebrate the city’s history and ecology but also to serve as a powerful catalyst for downtown revitalization.

Five primary areas define the park: Wilder Park on the west bank will serve as a green civic plaza and market space; a new cable-stayed pedestrian bridge will connect the two sides over Blues Island, which will be restored as a wildlife sanctuary; the Garden Market area will provide an urban-nature interface with LEED-certified visitor centers and public event spaces; the Performance Venue will accommodate up to 6,000 guests and become a major draw for cultural events; and the Indian Creek Wetland will create an environmental education hub with restored natural landscapes.

The plan emphasizes inclusivity, connectivity, and year-round use, with activities ranging from walking trails and kayak launches to winter skating and sledding. Accessibility, sustainability, and respect for Aurora’s history—such as recognition of the Potawatomi heritage—are woven throughout the project. Infrastructure, including parking and transit access via the Aurora Transportation Center, is carefully planned to accommodate large-scale events while remaining pedestrian- and bike-friendly.

Economically, the park is expected to significantly boost downtown property values and retail activity, with parallels drawn to the success of Millennium Park in Chicago. By anchoring new development and enhancing quality of life, RiverEdge Park is positioned to become not just a park, but a civic engine dynamic symbol of Aurora’s future that unites environment, community, and commerce.

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