HISTORY

The Historic Arkansas Riverwalk of Pueblo is a 26-acre urban waterfront experience. Visitors can access pedestrian paths surrounding the entire area as well as access bike paths, which connect to bike trails leading to Lake Pueblo.

Lake Elizabeth, located on the West Side of the project has a lakeside promenade designed to provide a natural area for waterfowl, fish and other wildlife. Recreational and educational opportunities abound.

The original Arkansas River stone wall has been incorporated into the design, creating a historic setting and theme which is carried throughout the project. Along the river channel several signature construction projects add to the ambiance of the area.

Begin your tour at Kelly Falls located at the base of the Union Avenue Historic District. As you stroll along the riverfront you will encounter plazas perfect for special family gatherings, private celebrations, festivals and community events. Many of the important features at the Riverwalk are possible through the generous contributions of area families and grants from major foundations. The Coors Pavilion and El Pomar Plaza are two of the most significant construction projects.

The Williams family provided five beautiful bronze geese in flight and a huge stone sculpture comes to life at the fountain donated by the Farley and Reilly families. In the natural area on the side of the project, garden and landscape materials were donated by the Anderson family. Houston Construction of Pueblo provided substantial in-kind services to this area to make it a perfect place for school field trips, complete with an outdoor classroom.


MISSION

The mission of the HARP Authority is to promote, manage, supervise, operate, develop and maintain the public project known as the Historic Arkansas Riverwalk of Pueblo in a manner consistent with the community's vision for this significant revitalization project.


VISION

The HARP Authority and HARP Foundation are committed to the original vision for the Riverwalk which was voted on and approved by the citizens of Pueblo in 1995. The existing project is only a portion of the proposed six phase vision for the urban redevelopment of the historic Arkansas River channel. The first three phases -- the original two phases plus the extension towards the Pueblo Convention Center -- are part of a plan to revitalize development of downtown Pueblo. The final three phases will be largely recreational in nature and will connect the Riverwalk to existing bike paths and walking trails in the Pueblo area. It is our job at the HARP Authority/Foundation to be good stewards of the public trust and make this vision for HARP's future a reality!