I have attended all Waterville visioning workshops. I have believed that we, the people, are being listened to. Last week’s session gave me some doubt.
In all the sessions (and in conversations with others) it is very clear that the majority of Waterville residents want the Riverwalk to remain green and as open space.
My concern arose when seeing that in the three ideas for the Riverwalk, not one kept it as open space. A community center (which I strongly support in another place), various sport areas and other “let’s fill up the space” ideas were represented.
When I voiced my concern, I was told (by a Mitchell Associates representative) that these were just ideas. When I pressed the issue of no “leave it green and open” rendering, I was continually told “these are just ideas.” That isn’t a satisfactory response. Why, if there were three drawings of how to fill up the Riverwalk, was there not one to leave it as it is? Part of the session’s stated goal was to indicate agreement, disagreement and/or other ideas. How could anyone agree or disagree without one of the options represented?
The Riverwalk is the only green and open space along the river in downtown Waterville. It is accessible and has good parking. Waterville is blessed with many public spaces for sports and play, why would we want to fill such a unique space with buildings and other areas that limit it’s use?
The Kennebec River is an invaluable and integral part of Waterville. Let’s not hide it with expansion of what is already available or buildings that will only detract from its shining position in our community. Several communities, Brewer and Bucksport for example, have honored their riverfronts by leaving them alone except for paths to walk and places to sit, the Riverwalk already provides these, let’s not ruin it.
Nancy Sanford
Waterville
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