Waterfront Development

Many cities today are bringing their Waterfrontswaterfront develops. The waterfront should be
back to life. Waterfronts which were used mainlyenticing. Effective crime prevention systems can
for trade are being revitalized as "people places"allay psychological barriers.
as societies, and communities improve and grow.Create opportunities for interaction with water - "I
Waterfronts are an integral part of cities, theirlove just sitting and splish-splashing my feet in the
urban landscape and contribute to a city's vitality.water, and my grandmother loves to look at kids
Active and diverse waterfronts attract diverseplaying in the fountain."
crowds of people and increase its longevity.Contact with the water is very attractive to
Promenades, piers, restaurants, bars, and retailusers and visitors, whether via swimming, boating,
facilities create numerous opportunities for aor feeding animals in the water. If this is not
variety of activities that are cultural, recreational,possible having water features such as fountains
retail and tourism oriented. The incorporation ofand pools are also attractive.
well designed landscapes and appropriate streetPromote 24-hour activity - "There are fireworks
furniture into the infrastructure of the waterfronttonight and a concert tomorrow at the
also add to its beauty.waterfront, with 24 hr. police presence, it is very
Based on my research, here are some illustrationssafe."
of waterfront developments that have provenSuccessful waterfronts are filled with people at
successful by incorporating the above guidelines:day and at night. They are sites for dining,
Public use and access to Waterfront a priority -exhibitions, concerts, events, friendly sports and
"There is an exhibition at the waterfront thisother gatherings. Having a high number of
week. Artists can be seen painting and dancersresidential developments on the waterfront limits
dancing."these activities which are necessary for a
Privatization of waterfronts should be avoidedsuccessful and vibrant waterfront. Visitors should
with public access, facilities and enjoyment beingfeel safe when using the waterfront during the
made priority.day and especially at night.
Multiple activities and destinations - "We can seeUse parks as destination connections - "There are
art, buy stuff, sit and read, stroll, eat at thosebeautiful parks along the waterfront on the way
restaurants. There is a great mix of things weto the restaurants." As mentioned earlier using
can do on the waterfront"waterfront parks as linkages to other destinations
Having one specific use for a waterfront can leadinstead of THE destination allows for diverse
to a dead waterfront because it squeezes outpeople and activities on the waterfront.
other activities. Large expanses of green spaceGood management - "During the Carnival season
on the waterfront may seem too passive, insteadthere are several shows, and at other times art
of adding to the layering of activities in the city.exhibitions, dances, martial arts exhibitions, and
The Project for Public Spaces ( refers to this asrestaurant week."
the Power of Ten, having a minimum of ten (10)Maintaining the vibrancy of a waterfront
destinations along the waterfront.throughout the years is essential. There must be
Create connections - "The views to and from theample activities to keep people wanting to return
waterfront to the city are breathtaking."to the waterfront after the novelty wears off.
This includes visual, physical and psychologicalClean waterfronts are always attractive.
connections. View sheds to and from theProgramming events such as temporary exhibits,
waterfront should be protected, preserved andlocal musicians, and dancers reflects the
additional views provided as the city andcommunity, and reinforces the culture.