Construction is underway on the new Riverfest Park Monument Sign, an entry feature that will define the park’s entrance and celebrate De Soto’s connection to the Kansas River.
In the mid-1800s, steamboats like the Lightfoot once traveled the Kaw, linking De Soto with nearby cities before railroads replaced river travel.
The 21-foot monument features inset lettering, a halo-lit steamboat design, and a historical plaque honoring the city’s steamboat era and the creativity of lifelong resident and educator Darrel Zimmerman, whose original concept inspired the design.
The project is expected to be complete by the end of the year, weather permitting, and is funded through the City’s Capital Project Fund.