Urban Planning: The Riverwalks

[stjr]

It is hard to believe our convention center is not on the riverwalk.

and yet many in Tampa bemoan that theirs is on the riverwalk....taking valuable land off the tax rolls.

I would consider building high rises "behind" public spaces facing the river.  With an unobstructed view above the lower floors,a tower's units (office, hotel, or residential) would have a view essentially the same as being at the river's edge and should command similar values.  In fact, if the riverside public space features greenways and amenities such as playing fields and courts, bike and pedestrian pathways, and river access, the value of the tower properties "behind" might be worth more than if they were direct on the river without such amenities being available.

For comparison, riverfront homes are set back from the river, not built right up to the bulkhead.  Why?  People like some green to look at between them and the water.  Gives identity and perspective to the view not to mention the possibility for some of the aforesaid amenities.

[thelakelander]

It is hard to believe our convention center is not on the riverwalk.

and yet many in Tampa bemoan that theirs is on the riverwalk....taking valuable land off the tax rolls.

I've always felt we should go the Seattle way.  A convention center that sells air rights to private development and incorporates street level retail/dining.  The best of both worlds, imo.

[JaxNeedsHelp]

This is a very interesting article!! I love the umbrella's and high top tables and also the Wolfgang Puck placement. As a downtown business owner, it would be great to see some of this happen! Great job again, MetroJacksonville

[Overstreet]

...............For comparison, riverfront homes are set back from the river, not built right up to the bulkhead.  Why?  People like some green to look at between them and the water.  Gives identity and perspective to the view not to mention the possibility for some of the aforesaid amenities......

It also gives them a chance to get the house farther up the hill from the water/100 year flood.