Riverfront Improvement Commission eyeing hot‑dog stand site; Freight House, Union Station adjustments discussed

Parks staff updated the advisory board on Riverfront Improvement Commission activity and downtown riverfront projects. The RIC discussed interest in redeveloping a former hot‑dog stand and is working to establish baseline utility needs — sewer, water and likely power upgrades — to scope potential costs, staff said.

"If it's gonna end up being a 1,000,000 dollar hot dog stand, it's not gonna happen," one staff update cautioned, adding that modest, reasonable investment may proceed and that some funds have already been committed. Project feasibility will hinge on utility costs and available RIC funding, which staff said has been reduced after long‑term revenue declines tied to loss of commercial properties on the riverfront.

Staff also reported that new tenants, including Boozies, Front Street and Antonella's, are contributing to weekend and weekday activity at the Freight House and that the Freight House currently shows no vacancies. Union Station, by contrast, has second‑floor vacancies the farmers market is evaluating to expand indoor market space and extend market days.

Board members and staff also discussed the potential of Quinlan Court as a food‑truck and event space. Staff said the original design intended Quinlan Court for vendors but distance from primary event areas and narrow access have limited activation; they hope Main Street Landing and the planned playground will help activate the area.

Next step: staff will continue utility assessments for the hot‑dog‑stand site and coordinate with the farmers market on Union Station space possibilities.