BUILD

City of River Falls

The City of River Falls is advancing the FORWARD Program (Fully Optimizing Roads and Walkways to Accelerate Reconstruction Downtown) - a comprehensive initiative to modernize downtown transportation and utility infrastructure while preserving the historic character that defines the community. 

The City is seeking a $24.9 million grant from the U.S. Department of Transpiration's Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development (BUILD) program to support planning, design, engineering, and construction of critical improvements in downtown River Falls. The FORWARD Program reflects a long-term vision for a safer, more accessible, and more resilient downtown that supports residents, businesses, students, and visitors. 

Current Challenges

Downtown River Falls experiences increasing transportation and infrastructure challenges as the community continues to grow. Higher traffic volumes, limited pedestrian and bicycle facilities, and outdated street designs contribute to congestion, safety concerns, and accessibility barriers for people of all ages and abilities.

Much of the downtown infrastructure—including streets, sidewalks, utilities, and stormwater systems—has reached or exceeded its useful life. These aging systems are more vulnerable to flooding, weather-related disruptions, and maintenance issues, limiting the area’s ability to function as a safe, efficient, and attractive destination.

 In addition, portions of downtown do not fully meet ADA or Universal Design standards, and connections between downtown, nearby neighborhoods, and the Kinnickinnic River are limited. Together, these challenges constrain economic vitality, emergency response efficiency, and the overall downtown experience.

Region_Layout_v3

The FORWARD Solution

The FORWARD Program takes a coordinated approach to upgrading streets, sidewalks, utilities, and public spaces to address current challenges while preparing downtown River Falls for future growth. 

Key project goals include: 

  • Improving Safety and reducing conflicts for all roadway users
  • Enhancing walkability and bicycle connectivity
  • Strengthening connections between downtown, the Kinnickinnic River, and surrounding neighborhoods
  • Supporting local businesses, job growth, and tourism
  • Enabling new housing and mixed-use development
  • Building resilient infrastructure that can withstand grown and extreme weather