Up the River Without A Paddle?

As crews poured concrete and massive rigs bore deep into the rain-softened ground, Riverfront Development Corp. board members tour the construction site of a project that may never be finished. Beale Street Landing is part of the Memphis Riverfront Master Plan approved by the Memphis City Council in 2002 that addressed a set of varied and visionary goals such as creating a unique public space and destination at the end of historic Beale Street, provide safe and inviting pedestrian access to the water’s edge…oh and function as a world-class docking facility of course.

            Work on Beale Street Landing is progressing rapidly, and by the end of next year, the basic components of the landing, including a floating boat dock with a helical ramp and a grass-covered building for ticketing, retail and restaurant operations, should be completed. But the specially designed terraced park that was to be the signature feature of the project remains unfunded-- with no prospects for money on the immediate horizon. Isn’t the park the most important feature of any waterfront development? Apparently the funding problem arose after the project's costs increased from $27.4 million to more than $35 million as a result of delays and other factors, while the federal grants allocated to help pay for it shriveled. As a result, the RDC  (Riverfront Development Corp.) is about $6.7 million short of the total needed to finish the project that is to be the centerpiece of the city's waterfront along the Mississippi River.

Whether a waterfront park enhances a city’s economic development or strengthens its sustainability goals, or both, its presence can boost a city’s image, in which we know…Memphis is long overdue for a makeover. The newest waterfront developments devote substantial homes to parks, greenways, and trails. They push for public access and emphasize the water for its own sake. Parks on the water make a city more competitive with other cities because of the access, recreation, and beauty they offer.  They become a fundamental demonstration of how enjoyable the city can really be. Parks also add a sense of safety and activity along the water’s edge.

Another $6.7 million is needed to finish the project, and it's the job of the nonprofit Riverfront Development Corp. to remain in hot pursuit of the money from private as well as public, hopefully more private and less public, because taxpayers rarely see their tax dollars put to good use plus the current state of the economy foreshadows any positive perspectives. Other resources can come from charitable contributions and philanthropic groups. The Mississippi was the focal point for much of this city's cultural life in past times. There’s no reason why this city can’t thrive again off such a natural wonder. Memphis needs this…there is a desire to reunite the city with the river.