The City of Allegan’s riverfront transformation has been recognized with the Quality of Life Project of the Year award from the Michigan branch of the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE). This prestigious honor celebrates projects that enhance quality of life while preserving and improving the natural environment—an achievement that aligns with Abonmarche’s commitment to community-centered design
Revitalizing Allegan’s Historic Riverfront
Nestled between historic downtown Allegan and the Kalamazoo River, the riverfront was once an underutilized area consisting of vacant buildings, a deteriorating boardwalk, and a rundown parking lot. Through a strategic, multi-phase redevelopment, Abonmarche helped the city reimagine and transform this space into a vibrant destination for residents, businesses, and visitors.
“The Allegan community gave us a great canvas and vision to work with, and it has been a pleasure assisting them in bringing this vision to life,” said Tony McGhee, Vice President of Development Services at Abonmarche. “Building quality of place has been at the core of our firm’s values for nearly four decades.”
A Multi-Phase Approach to Community Growth
The riverfront redevelopment, spanning multiple years, introduced new public spaces and recreational features, including:
> Phase 1 – Development of a performance stage, pedestrian plaza, and landscaping improvements
> Phase 2 – Additional park enhancements and a universally accessible canoe and kayak launch
> Phase 3 – Installation of a zip line over the Kalamazoo River and parking upgrades
> Phase 4 (upcoming) – Construction of a splash pad, 18-foot fire pit, expanded pedestrian plaza, shade structures, and additional seating areasA Catalyst for Economic and Social Growth
The Allegan riverfront redevelopment has sparked renewed investment and interest in the downtown area. Since the project’s launch, Allegan has seen:
> New businesses opening in previously vacant storefronts
> Increased event attendance and community engagement
> Expanded private investment in downtown properties“The community’s commitment to redeveloping our waterfront has led to numerous new investments in businesses and properties,” said Allegan City Manager Joel Dye. “The riverfront project drew attention to our city’s potential, and that momentum continues to drive growth.”
As the final phase of construction begins, Abonmarche is proud to have played a key role in helping Allegan create a dynamic, thriving downtown destination.