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Overview
The Chadakoin River is one of Jamestown’s most valuable assets. Despite its status as the primary natural open space element in the city, the river is underutilized as a recreational, cultural and commercial resource. Current
conditions include:
• Lack of public access.
• Private control of the waterfront. Much of the river is screened by the remains of obsolete industrial structures.
Abandoned and deteriorating factories and warehouses abut the river channel, blocking views and creating an unsightly background for water uses.
• Phase One of the City’s Riverwalk Plan has been completed.
Opportunities
The river is the city’s most distinctive natural feature and should become the visual and recreational centerpiece of the community. Development of recreational amenities and public gathering places would improve the appearance and function of the river, making it a desirable destination and serving as a catalyst for economic development within the river corridor.
These guidelines support the principles and goals of the Urban Design Plan, and set the objectives for the siting and design of future public spaces and private investment along the riverfront. This should include a “core” activity center that links to downtown within a larger, urban riverfront park framework.
Benefits
A new Riverwalk and park can become a major amenity and regional attraction. New development along the river could further strengthen and enhance the appearance of and public interaction with the river.
The overriding goal of the plan is to realize Jamestown’s importance and potential as a regional center attracting county residents and visitors to new and enhanced attractions downtown and along the riverfront. To this end, the design of buildings and public spaces should conform to a set of guidelines with the following principles.
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