The City of Topeka Utilities Department has completed Phase 1 of the Kansas River Weir Project. The river weir project constructed a north bank fish passage and recreation enhancement including boat chutes and fish ladders, energy dissipation rock placement, stairs, downstream boat ramp and parking lot resurfacing.
The project includes include a bypass channel which will allow safe navigation around the existing river weir without having to portage. The other features of the project include alteration of existing wing dikes and installation of rock and concrete surfaces below the weir to improve public safety. The new parking area will feature a more reliable access road aimed to reduce illegal dumping and destruction of property.
“The river weir is a vital project that creates a safe river for everyone to enjoy, it proves an essential connection between downtown and North Topeka,” said City Manager Brent Trout.
Phase 2 of the Kansas River Weir project will start in the fall of 2021. Phase 2 will include an additional safety enhancements including the installation of rock and concrete surfaces on the downstream side of the weir to improve public safety.
The ribbon cutting for the Kansas River Weir will take place on Friday May 7th at 2:00 p.m. The ribbon cutting ceremony will feature kayakers, Topeka Fire Department water rescue equipment, and the Kansas Department of Parks Wildlife and Tourism airboat and other equipment. After the ceremony attendants are encouraged to walk to the Great Overland station on the levee trail to participate in First Fridays in NOTO. Community partners for the Kansas River Weir project include the City of Topeka, Greater Topeka Partnership, Shawnee County, the Kansas Department of Parks Wildlife and Tourism and the Riverfront Advisory Council.