RIVERWALK PLANNING, DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION COMMITTEE AGENDA ITEM
ACTION REQUESTED:
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Provide input on an alternate bench design for the Riverwalk
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DEPARTMENT: Transportation, Engineering and Development
SUBMITTED BY: Andrew Hynes, P.E., Deputy Director of Transportation, Engineering and Development/City Engineer
Tiffani Picco, Riverwalk Operations Manager
BOARD/COMMISSION REVIEW:
The Riverwalk Commission discussed one potential alternative Riverwalk bench option at the July 8, 2026, meeting.
BACKGROUND:
The Riverwalk currently has a standard bench in the Victorian style with powder-coated steel frames and ipe wood slats. Benches with recycled plastic slats in the east extension were tried but had problems in the past with vandalism. The wood slats are easier to sand or stain over the vandalism.
DISCUSSION:
The state funding associated with the NCC Riverwalk Park requires that the materials used in the project follow the Buy America Act. While Victor Stanley is an American company, some components of the standard Riverwalk bench do not meet the funding requirements.
An initial alternative bench was presented at the July 8, 2026, Riverwalk Commission meeting. Based on the Commission’s input, the Riverwalk consultant team was asked to review other options. Two other alternatives (Dumor Model 400 and Signature Streetscapes Model ASM-TB4HA) that are a closer match to the current Riverwalk standard bench were identified. Photos and details of these new proposed alternatives benches are attached for the Committee’s review.