Posted on Sun, Nov. 01, 2009

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Council to vote Tuesday on planned riverbank improvements

BY BRENT D. WISTROM

The Wichita Eagle

The city is poised to build an elaborate set of paths, landscaping and lighting along the Arkansas River at Douglas.

It is part of a massive financing package the city offered Drury Southwest to help the company buy the financially strapped Broadview Hotel last year.

Tuesday, City Council members will vote on $2.2 million worth of riverbank improvements that would turn the now largely inaccessible area owned by the hotel into a public space that could have some small events.

The plan is budgeted at $200,000 more than expected a year ago because it has grown in scope, Public Works Director Chris Carrier said.

Under the deal, Drury would deed the city a swath of riverbank land, the city would fix it up and the hotel would agree to maintain the landscaping.

The city would be responsible for the retaining walls, path and lights.

Sales tax revenue captured as part of a sales tax and revenue bond district is expected to pay for the improvements.

The $26 million Broadview renovation is financially backed by the city.

Construction is scheduled to begin this month and last eight to 10 months.

Reach Brent D. Wistrom at 316-268-6228 or bwistrom@wichitaeagle.com.

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