Charlotte’s recent comment about the flood issue is important to any discussion about riverfront development. I’ve created this post so it may be discussed at length.
While the Omni Source property has been removed from the flood plain by the engineers’ levee projects, Lawton Park, the skateboard park, and the area surrounding Science Central remain subject to seasonal flooding. The levee system does not continue through to Lawton Park, and I’m assuming this is by design to alleviate flooding in other areas. It is a challenge that must be addressed.
Some plans for development have proposed building up to the river itself. As building code restricts construction of structures lying within the flood plain, other solutions must be found. One option is to build additional levees here. This is problematic if Lawton Park has in fact been allowed to flood by design.
If we can’t build within the flood plain, let’s build above it. Let’s create a system of boardwalks (Shopping & Nightlife Districts) the lowest level of which is above the existing levee where present, or on a series of columns where none exists. This would allow Lawton Park to flood while new construction is high and dry. While parking areas along Fourth Street and the park itself would occasionally flood, no damage would be caused to structures themselves.
My plan for construction suggests a “timbered” facade for all buildings in the area. Elevating the boardwalks has an added benefit: a person standing in the center of Lawton Park experiences the feeling of being surrounded by a living, breathing Fort protected from the outside world (unless they’re standing there during a flood in which case all bets are off!).
What about the water displaced by new parking lots near the Water Park? I propose that Three Rivers Fountain should be a retention pond which might help. How about a “moat” surrounding the water park to absorb excess runoff (guests to the resort cross a bridge to enter the facility)?
Any other suggestions?
Dave:
Thank you for creating the post on flooding. I have added your blog to my blogroll as well.
I like the idea of building above the floodplain. Years ago I drove out to California, and I saw a restaurant built over a highway; the location escapes me now. I always thought it would be a great idea if we could take an old, abandoned train trestle over a river and, instead of tearing it out, somehow convert it to a restaurant or small cafe.
What a great view of the area while dining, and the height would protect against flood levels. The only downside is that during flooding, it would probably be inaccessible.
Since Fourth Street is really “in the way” for a short length, I wonder if it will eventually be closed so that the project will be uninterrupted by traffic flow. Maybe this has already been discussed.
But again, thanks for doing this to focus on North River. It is hard to keep track of everything going on, and this will provide Fort Wayne residents with great, up-to-date information on the project.
Your idea about converting an abandoned train trestle into a restaurant/cafe is very interesting.
Anyone using the Wells Street pedestrian bridge? It would be small, but businesses like Cindy’s Diner have proven you don’t need much space to make it work. Residents in the area can walk downtown to work, stopping by the cafe to grab their morning java. I like it.
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