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?
North Fort Wayne River Development 