Commission conditionally approves feasibility study for restoring the historic levy as a concession site

The Riverfront Improvement Commission voted to authorize a feasibility study to evaluate options for the historic levy, including whether it could be returned to use as a concession or preserved as a monument. The authorization was conditional: staff must ensure the consultant's deliverables are completed within 60 days of contract start, after which the commission will confirm the work or require the item be returned to the full body for a vote.

Staff said the commission has set aside $25,000 from Riverfront Improvement Commission (RAIC) funds for the study and that two other individuals/groups have verbally pledged additional support. Commissioners discussed whether a prior $1 million donation from the Jim Victor family might be available; staff said the allocation was disputed and that portions were redirected in the past, and the availability of those funds is not resolved.

Members requested a clear schedule of deliverables — including an estimated completion date — and recommended that the consultant consider river's‑edge access, site infrastructure (electrical, gas), cost estimates for three alternative renovation concepts (monument, bare‑bones concession, full operating stand) and outreach steps if community fundraising is needed. The motion passed by voice vote; transcript records the motion and second but does not record a roll‑call tally. Staff will circulate a proposed consultant timeline and, if necessary, proceed with a remote/email approval so the study can start promptly.