Mortensen Riverfront Plaza is the centerpiece of the Riverfront park system which connects Hartford with the Connecticut River. It is defined by the Founders Bridge that links downtown Hartford to the waterfront, where various activities occur on a regular basis. Ranging from concerts to casual strolls along the riverfront, such happenings now take place in a way they never could before this transformation, highlighting what’s possible when a vision to redefine a space and connect a community is realized.
Reconnecting Hartford to the River
The value of revitalizing what was an underused waterfront in Hartford was well understood by 1980s, which compelled the creation of Riverfront Recapture. This non-profit organization was tasked with reconnecting Hartford to the Connecticut River. It would define a vision to connect what were disparate sections and communities that defined the city.
Private investors funded the purchase of this property and their support has been memorialized in various ways throughout the site. The efforts to do so also enabled the cultivation of advertising revenue that is integrated into the space amidst the numerous landmarks and features.
The Riverfront Stage is one of the most notable of these features. With seating for 2,500 people on a grassy terrace, it regularly hosts concerts, classes, festivals and more.
The Founders Bridge commemorates the men and women who traveled to the area in 1636 to found the city of Hartford. These features are in addition to amenities that include performance facilities, public boat cruises, fishing access, sculpture installations and lighted walkways. The Mortensen Riverfront Plaza is also directly connected to the Lincoln Financial Sculpture Walk.
All of these elements have allowed Mortensen Riverfront Plaza to become an attraction that draws residents and visitors for different reasons, showcasing the power of a vision to simultaneously connect communities and create opportunities for stakeholders.
The Legacy of a Transformational Investment
The transformational investment in an area along Connecticut River fulfilled a vision to drive economic development and improve the environment and community. Maps and guides to the city highlight the Mortensen Riverfront Plaza to further cultivate these developments and connections. This vision to improve the space is ongoing, showcasing what it can mean for a monument to create a positive impact in the present and future.
