Veterans Memorial Plaza, Chaplain Schmitt Island

Working with the Dubuque Racing Association and its Island Task Force, RDG Planning & Design developed a Placemaking & Implementation Plan designed to enhance the overall riverfront, create a direct connection for users to the Mississippi River and establish a sense of place for the community. Our team led a four-month planning process resulting in Phase 1 park improvements that unify a series of existing memorials, restore the shoreline edge, integrate new artwork and create places for people to connect. This project required permitting through multiple state and federal agencies, establishing a structured phasing process (due to budget constraints) and engaging various collaborative partners.