Chaplain Schmitt Island Placemaking & Implementation Plan

Working for the Dubuque Racing Association and its Island Task Force, RDG Planning & Design developed a placemaking and implementation plan designed to improve the island's riverfront, enhance the overall experience on the island, increase foot traffic and create a sense of place that celebrates the values of the community and region. The team led a four-month planning process to review the existing master plan, receive feedback from the task force, develop site-specific concepts, coordinate with the regulating authorities and develop an overall promotional document for the improvements.

The river, the land, the people and adventure are each part of an energy reflected through organic and colorful swashes. The centric space that these swatches form alludes to the shape of Chaplain Schmitt Island and form a mark that captivates a place of activity. Within the document, the bold use of oversized text suggests an island that has a bright future. Colors and fonts complement the island’s businesses which will allow wayfinding to become a seamless addition.