The city and town of Oneonta, in partnership with the state Department of State, is developing a joint local waterfront revitalization program, exploring how to develop Oneonta’s waterfront resources sustainably.
According to a news release, the program focuses on strengthening tourism and economic development while protecting natural resources and cultural assets, building upon previous planning and economic development efforts.
A local waterfront revitalization program is a comprehensive land and water use program developed by local municipalities under the authorization of the state Waterfront Revitalization of Coastal Areas and Inland Waterways Act.
A community survey is available online, accepting responses from Jan. 15 through Feb. 26. Public, along with expert, input is intended to provide local leaders with clear direction on waterfront redevelopment.
The program is intended to define a vision for lands along the Susquehanna River and its tributaries and help identify specific projects for future grant funding requests, the news release stated.
Project funding comes from the state Department of State under Title 11 of the Environmental Protection Fund.
Survey participants are asked to provide input on issues including economic development, waterfront access, the environment and recreational opportunities. All responses are anonymous.
The survey is presented in three sections.
Section 1 provides an overview of the program. Section 2 includes a waterfront revitalization area boundary map and vision — selecting the boundary including recreational, economic and environmental considerations, according to the survey.
Section 3 seeks input regarding potential projects and needs throughout the area.
Projects could include boat launch development and improvement, dredging, flood control, historic preservation, redevelopment of underused or deteriorated areas, road repair, signage and trails and walkways development.
An Oneonta Waterfront Advisory Committee is guiding the planning process, assisted by a project team led by Elan Planning and Design from Saratoga Springs.
A list of projects in slated to be finalized by spring.
The community can learn more about the program and future public engagement activities at www.oneontalwrp.com. The survey is available at www.surveymonkey.com/r/W2TJM8Z.