Representatives of Gates, Leighton & Associates consulting landscape architectural firm from East Providence presented initial concepts for a proposed streetscape project designed to enhance the City's waterfront along the Water Street area on April 17, 2012. The first of three public presentations was given to the City Council's Committee on Economic Development and Tourism, chaired by Council Member David Dennis. Plans included improvements to the appearance of the area but also the "walkability" of the area. "The planners are realizing the economic value of planning for good pedestrian use, especially in a tourist area," noted  Fall River Mass in Motion coordinator Julianne Kelly, who attended the presentation. Funding for the project came from technical assistance funds tied to a proposed rail station to be developed as part of the South Coast Rail project, overseen by the Southeastern Regional Planning and Economic Development District (SRPEDD). Improvements to sidewalks, lighting and signage will help to make the waterfront area more accessible and attractive. Click here for a sixteen-minute video of a portion of the presentation. Click here for the Herald News article. Click here for photos of other waterfront development plans. For more information, contact City Councilor Dave Dennis at 508-646-3628 or Fall River Mass In Motion coordinator Julianne Kelly, at 508-324-2405.

(Top row) Fall River City Council Member and chair of the Committee on Economic Development and Tourism, Dave Dennis, meets with representatives of Gates, Leighton & Associates (LGA) consulting landscape architectural firm and introduces them to the other members of the Committee, Joseph Camara and Daniel Rego. (Middle row) LGA presenters go over their findings and plans for improvements to the area. (Bottom row) Senior Associate Arek Galle talks about the need to enhance the "walkability" of the area, which can be measured by WalkScore.com's web site and illustrated by WalkBoston's efforts to improve pedestrian traffic in downtown Boston. as Fall River Mass In Motion coordinator, Julie Kelly, (center) and others in the audience listen.