Waterfront development: Keeping the balance
03/10/09 23:12 Filed in: development
Commercial interests. The waterfront is a haven to many, and to live there is coveted by most. It is valuable real estate, and an opportunity to make money. And how do you balance industry with tourism? A fishing processing plant should not necessarily be eliminated in the name of a new yacht club. It is ideal, of course, when the interests of the environment, industry and public are considered.
The public interest. Don't over-develop, leave open spaces, and ensure access for all walks of life.
It's not easy. And many cities have failed to get it right. Boston, for example, offers innumerable lessons of what NOT to do. What cities do you think have it right? (Or at least have made strides in a positive, balanced direction.)
Portland, Maine, while not perfect, is in a position to revitalize what is languishing and maintain what is working for its waterfront. Its range of shops and restaurants (in terms of both cuisine and price), long, open-access harbor walk (with a steam-engine train for those with, er, tired feet) and unimpeded views all contribute toward making this port city an enjoyable experience. But development looms, certainly, and the struggling fishing industry is evident--with burned out piers, empty warehouses and ominously, quiet wharves. It is a city worth watching. Click here to view photos of Portland's waterfront.
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