When the City of Vienna set out to transform its 12th Street riverfront into a vibrant, multi-use recreational destination along the Ohio River, B&N was engaged to provide comprehensive planning and engineering services to expand public access and support long-term community use. The city’s vision focused on creating safe, accessible river access while establishing a flexible framework for future recreational amenities.
Integrated Planning to Support Long-Term Use
Building on the successful completion of a preliminary design phase for a proposed kayak launch in 2023, B&N continued its partnership with the city to further evaluate the site’s potential and advance a phased implementation strategy. To inform future development, B&N conducted a bathymetric survey of the Ohio River adjacent to the site and prepared a conceptual land use plan using existing city aerial mapping. This planning effort evaluated a range of recreational amenities, including a kayak launch, boat ramp, fishing areas, playground facilities, shelters, restrooms and supporting site infrastructure. It also includes adaptive reuse of an existing garage for a future community building.
Conceptual renderings illustrating site circulation, parking, grading, fencing and river access were developed and presented to the city, followed by preliminary cost estimates and recommended construction phasing. These elements were compiled into a comprehensive five-year planning document to guide long-term implementation.
In addition to master planning, B&N is providing engineering and structural design services for Phase 1 improvements, which are currently under construction. This phase focuses on enhancing safe and accessible river access and includes improvements to the existing metal stair system, design of a new kayak transport structure and engineering of a floating courtesy dock with an aluminum gangway.
Structural design services included development of an abutment and anchoring system, coordinated with the dock manufacturer, to securely connect the dock to the riverbank. An overall site layout integrates these elements into a cohesive and functional river access facility.
Supporting Community Recreation and River Engagement
Through a phased, forward-looking approach, B&N is helping the City of Vienna create a riverfront amenity that supports kayaking and fishing while strengthening the community’s connection to the Ohio River. The 12th Street improvements advance a practical, accessible recreational destination that reflects the city’s commitment to outdoor activity and long-term waterfront vitality.