Harris Riverfront, Huntington WV
100 3rd ave, 25701

The development of Harris Riverfront Park occurred in 3 separate design and construction phases over a twenty year period between 1977 and 1997. Phase 1- Boat Launch: Completed in 1977, the first phase contained the boat launch ramp, utilities, access road, comfort station, parking, and a marina location. Phase 2- Main Harris: Completed in 1983, the second phase consisted of the amphitheater, river walk, two comfort stations, upper tree-lined walk, entry plaza, two river overlooks, grove picnic area, open lawn recreation area, and associated parking. Phase 3- Riverboat Docking Facility: Completed in 1997, the third phase consisted of the large vessel docking area, handicap fishing access, comfort station and associated parking. All three phases were funded as a 50/50 cost share between the City and the Corps of Engineers. Phases 1 and 3 were designed by the COE. Phase 2 was designed by Ridenour and Associates, in coordination with the COE.
The first step in any planning process is to identify the key project issues. Based upon community values, a sound foundation can be established for recommending future project improvements. You need to have good communication with the project client and the general public. The issues and concerns that came from the public involvement of this study clearly showed the individual and community values important to the people of Huntington. Three overall community values were Public