Memphis Business Journal - by Andy Ashby -

The Riverfront Development Corp. board approved a land use plan for Mud Island River Park which, if approved by Memphis City Council, could shape the way the 62-acre property is developed.

Looney Ricks Kiss managing principal Frank Ricks and urban planner Steve Auterman presented the plan, which determines which uses might be appropriate.

The recommended land use plan would cost $204 million if fully realized over as many as 50 years, according to the study. This would anticipate $141 million in public investment and $63 million in private investment.

The study calls for improved access to the park, including a heavily-landscaped boulevard on the north end leading toward Harbor Town. Other access ideas include river taxis and a pedestrian bridge from Beale Street Landing to the tip of Mud Island.

The plan would allow for mixed use development, similar to Harbor Town, just south of the Hernando DeSoto Bridge overlooking Wolf River Harbor, and an expanded marina area.

The study also identifies areas where a skatepark, aquarium or additional entertainment options could be appropriate, mostly toward the southern end of the park.

The plan also calls for increased access to the Mississippi River. A possibility could be lowering the berm to give a better view of the river. It suggests more shaded areas, seating, public art and greenspace.

Improvements to the area could call for adding 25-30 acres of land along the edges of the island. This could involve building a retaining wall and then filling it in with dirt or other materials.

RDC president Benny Lendermon said the plan was needed because multiple groups have approached the organization over the years with ideas for Mud Island. The study is a tool which would allow them to make decisions which fit with a theme for the property.

The plan was developed over 10 months with eight public meetings and three online surveys. Looney Ricks Kiss also oversaw 28 stakeholder meetings, which included Friends for Our Riverfront, Skatelife Memphis, the Hyde Family Foundations, the Center City Commission and the Greater Memphis Chamber, among others.