More trails, improved pedestrian access and in-water recreational opportunities for the Columbus riverfront are among priorities that came out of a public survey that generated 600 responses.
The survey, commissioned by a firm leading the city’s riverfront project, was conducted to learn what the public wants to see along the East Fork White River between the Second Street and Third Street bridges.
The information will be used to help Hitchcock Design Group of Naperville, Illinois, develop several conceptual designs for the riverfront that will be unveiled later this year, said Heather Pope, redevelopment director for the city.
Survey results support the city’s assessments that the riverfront needs improvement, she said.
Pope said the city is focusing on the riverfront as it looks to improve the quality of life for Columbus residents — with a bonus impact of drawing more visitors to the city, she said.
“An improved riverfront is an economic driver to our community,” Pope said. “It’s one of the first impressions of Columbus. We’re very proud of our city and we want it to look the best we can.”
For more on this story, see Thursday’s Republic.
