Summary
City planner says public has offered ideas, including adding some riverfront housing options to plan.
Story Published: Mar 18, 2010 at 9:10 PM PST
Story Updated: Mar 18, 2010 at 9:10 PM PST
Lewiston City Planner Joel Plaskon said the plan is laid out in a 65 page document and that there has been little opposition about moving forward with the it.
"What I got out of the discussion is that they're very excited about the plan and very excited about recommending approval of it," said Plaskon. "They had an adjustment that they asked me to make to one sentence in the 65-page document, so I think that speaks to the fact that they're very happy and satisfied with the work to date."
Plaskon said most of the development along the river was designed for industrial usage, but now people are asking for more variety in riverfront property.
"The residents and the community are telling us they would like to see more housing opportunities along the rivers," said Plaskon. "Some more shopping or dining opportunities along the river, or more public services. So mixing some of those kinds of things in, along with the predominantly industrial uses along those stretches of the rivers."
The proposal still needs city council approval before moving forward. Plaskon said that decision should happen in late April or early May. If approval is granted, the first thing people will see is a more visual understanding of the waters in Lewiston.
"Basically an identification and locating system for people to know there's an access point to a linear park along the river," said Plaskon. "There's a parking lot over there. There's a public art display over here. And how do I get from this point, to that point, within this larger system?"
Along with making the river more accessible and enjoyable for Lewiston residents, Plaskon said it will also be beneficial for tourism.
He encourages anyone who wants to be involved in the project to attend monthly Planning and Zoning meetings.