Lesson 22 - Waterfront Planning

Question 1

Key Considerations in Waterfront Planning

Answer 1

There are a number of key environmental considerations when undertaking a waterfront planning process. In many cases, sites along the river have former industrial uses and require environmental mitigation. The Clean Water Act requirements are important to consider in waterfront planning.

In addition to environmental considerations, hazard considerations must also be taken into account. In some communities, the Army Corp of Engineers controls flood prevention structures. Flood mitigation is critical in planning along a waterfront. Many factors are considered such as: should buildings be elevated or set back to minimize flood risk?

Climate change is also an important factor to consider. The waterfront today will be different in the next 50 years.

What are the land uses and development trends along the waterfront? What does the community value about the waterfront? Preserving elements that capture the sense of place is important while providing for new development opportunities.

Other important factors to consider are the location of utilities. For instance, you do not want to locate a paddle boat area adjacent to the sewer overflow point on a river.

The City of Seattle has created a Central Waterfront Plan that has a strong emphasis on urban design, transportation, and economic activity.

The New York Division of Coastal Resources’ website provides helpful information to communities that engage in waterfront planning.