Riverwalk
The Snoqualmie River is at the heart of the Snoqualmie Riverwalk project, which is now in the early planning stages of a multi-phased, long-term recreational development. Phases of the concept will be considered over the coming decades.
The river is an important natural resource and plays an integral role in the connection of the various environmental, historical, tribal heritage, and recreational components that define the area’s ecosystem. The proposed Snoqualmie Riverwalk has been identified by the City of Snoqualmie in its Comprehensive Plan and Downtown Master Plan as a “destination trail loop” to be enjoyed by residents and visitors alike.
Riverwalk Master Plan
The purpose of the Riverwalk Master Plan is to illustrate and describe the conceptual design and planning elements of the Riverwalk. It acts as a guide to development of this key, Snoqualmie-centered, community amenity, outlining the trail system’s phased implementation in a methodical and environmentally sustainable manner.
To fully understand the Riverwalk Master Plan and all its complex elements, please review the concept plan to learn about the study area; site plan and analysis; multi-phased locations and features; land ownership; environmental impacts and sustainability; respect for historical tribal activities; sensitive development opportunities; access points; trail types; parking plan; myriad illustrations, aerial conceptualizations, and photographs; and much more. This 138-page document is formatted in an easy-to-read, information, and interesting document.
Location
The Snoqualmie Riverwalk is envisioned to connect from Snoqualmie Falls to Three Forks Natural Area with various types of trails and features along the north and south shores with landmarks including the Historic District, Borst Lake, and Meadowbrook Farm.
Please see the many illustrations and maps in the Riverwalk Master Plan.
Benefits of the Riverwalk
The proposed Snoqualmie Riverwalk has been identified by the City of Snoqualmie in its Comprehensive Plan and Downtown Master Plan as a “destination trail loop” to be enjoyed by residents and visitors alike. The Snoqualmie River is at the heart of the Riverwalk project. It is an important natural resource and plays an integral role in the connection of the various development and environmental components that define the area’s ecosystem.
- Re-connect the city to the Snoqualmie River and its distinct riverside identity
- Increase public access and enjoyment of the Snoqualmie River
- Act as a key new component to the City’s recreational infrastructure
- Offer a loop system and public spaces for a variety of programs
- Connect to regional trails and lands beyond
- Encourage Snoqualmie Falls visitors to extend their visit in Snoqualmie
- Be eco-friendly, sustainable and preserve a sense of being in the wilderness
- Be flood-friendly and gravitate around the water
The Riverwalk’s Role in Economic Development
The Riverwalk development is viewed as a key component to the City’s goals of a having a healthy, diverse economy that includes being recognized as a tourism destination with a distinctive sense of place. Snoqualmie’s historic downtown has been carefully preserved and regulations are in place to ensure that new development acts as a complement to the established form and character.
As a journey and a destination, the Riverwalk could:
- Optimize the quality of experience being offered
- Benefit the local economy and quality of life for the residents of Snoqualmie
- Complement and act as a catalyst to current and future tourism amenities, facilities and programming in the region
- Cater to all season use and anticipate visitor desire
- Avoid “Disneyfication"
Timeline
- 2014 – Concept development, site analysis, workshops, and public open houses
- 2015 – Presentation and adoption of the Riverwalk Master Plan
- Present - Design and implementation of Phase I of the Riverwalk Master Plan