The following are examples of categories and design elements that can guide a successful waterfront revitalization plan

Access

a. Contact with water

• Ampitheater Space
• Viewing platform/overlook deck
• Water & watercraft opportunities, ferry service
• Beaches & walkways
• Public seating areas

b. Continuous public space at the edge

• Biking systems
• Public access corridors
• Promenade space

c. Open and green

• Green expanses that connect the waterfront with downtown business districts
• Large open green spaces for public recreation
• Connections to the Urban Core and Neighborhoods
• Pedestrian bridges
• Downtown skywalks & riverwalks
• Festive banners, trees, broad sidewalks
• Segregated vehicle and bike/pedestrian traffic

d. Multi-modal

• All-purpose trail systems
• Ferry system/water taxis
• Scenic drive/parking areas
• Trolley system
• Bridge bike/walking paths

e. Welcoming to all

• Floral displays/colorful landscape areas
• Locational signs/displays

Quality of amenities, activities, & design

a. Continuity of design elements

Repetition of materials and detailing to identify the waterfront area

b. Quality of construction, materials, maintenance

• Landscaping & furnishings designed specifically for area
• Signature design pieces

c. Comfort and safety

• Comfortable places to sit, lounge, or sunbath
• Water fountains
• Places for public to obtain services

d. Place Specific

• Speaks to area’s history/legacy
• Public Art
• Maximize potential of prominent views

e. Variety

• Passive relaxation activities opportunities
• Active sports opportunities
• Range of opportunities for all interests and skill levels

Economic Development

a. Water is the attraction

Expensive real estate overlooks the waterfront for a reason

b. Built for local residents

• Improvements should be first for residents and then for tourists
• Platforms for local fishing
• Neighborhood basketball/volleyball courts

c. Integration of Public and private

Restaurants, shops, marinas mixed with public areas

d. Mixed Use

• Residential, office & commercial establishments in same buildings
• Special events spaces
• Promote utilization year round
• Mixed public and private uses

e. Housing

Promote activity at all hours

f. Maximize the Edge

• Mix of uses
• Provide opportunity for exposure to water

g. Eco-Tourism

• Aquatic education programs
• Shipwreck dives

Environmental Quality

a. Work with nature

• Boardwalks that adjust to rising and falling water levels
• Parks designed to work with the path of the sun

b. Restore ecological functions

Restorations programs

c. Diversity of native species

Utilize native and indigenous plants

d. Habitat Restoration

Restoration programs

e. Improve water quality

Water quality improvement efforts

Interpretive exhibits that explain work

f. Natural Areas

Allow unstructured space for natural growth

g. Green building practices

Green building

Green roof systems

Wind generation

h. Integrate interpretation

Educational materials on environment and history

i. Reduce noise and visual pollution

• No billboards, overhead utility poles/wire
• Vegetation buffers from noise