Cheyenne announces ambitious plan to expand city’s waterfront

Published on April 01, 2025

Mighty River.jpeg

After hearing the wish of the community, including the common refrain, “we need the moisture,” the City of Cheyenne Planning and Development Department is proud to announce the launch of an ambitious new planning study that will forever change the landscape of the Magic City of the Plains. This revolutionary study will explore the feasibility of combining local creeks into one singular, awe-inspiring, mighty, mighty river. The City has dubbed the planning effort as the “Creeks to Mighty, Mighty, River Plan.”

The proposed “Mighty, Mighty, Cheyenne River” (working title) would be formed by rerouting and significantly enhancing the modest water flows of Dry Creek, Crow Creek, and Clear Creek. The study will explore cutting-edge engineering techniques, including artificial waterfalls, navigable boat channels, and, if necessary, politely asking Mother Nature for a little more precipitation.

“For too long, Cheyenne has been a great city—but why stop at great when we could be the greatest?” said Planning and Development Director Charles Bloom. “A thriving, powerful river coursing through the heart of the city would finally set Cheyenne apart from other regional hubs and, most importantly, ensure that we are never dismissed as ‘just another charming cowboy town.’"

“We’ve seen what happens when cities don’t invest in their waterways,” Bloom continued. “We’re not about to make the same mistake.”

City leaders believe that with a mighty river, Cheyenne could unlock an array of exciting possibilities, including waterfront development, gondola rides, and perhaps even a City-sponsored rowing team to compete in the 2040 Olympics.

“Let’s face it—cities like Las Vegas like have built a reputation as a world-class entertainment capital, but they forgot one thing – a river,” said Mayor Patrick Collins. “Cheyenne has off-track betting facilities and the vision to become a true riverfront destination. Why settle for just slot machines when you can have steamboats too?”

The study will commence immediately, with a final report expected by April 1, 2026. Public engagement will begin promptly at sunset on June 31, 2025, following the close of the City of Douglas’s popular jackalope hunting season.

The plan is funded by money found in a local wishing well on the City’s Belvoir Ranch. In the meantime, residents are encouraged to submit their best river names to the Planning and Development Department.

Happy April Fool’s Day, Cheyenne!