The public will get to weigh in on ROC the Riverway, a comprehensive plan to redevelop the Genesee River where it passes through downtown. The city will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, May 1, at the Joseph Floreano Rochester Riverside Convention Center, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Hardly a year goes by when a public official from another city visiting downtown Rochester asks why the Genesee River hasn’t been redeveloped. Now, planning is underway for ROC the Riverway. The multi-phase initiative calls for nearly 30 development projects along the river that are designed to create greater public access and connect the river to the redevelopment of Main Street.Â
The plans are designed to leverage the river as a natural attraction and draw more people downtown, which could lead to even more development.
The projects, which feature trails, bridges, green space, and parks stretch from the south end of the river adjacent to the PLEX neighborhood to the High Falls region. Once completed, ROC the Riverway could transform downtown, city officials say.
The state has committed $50 million for the first phase of ROC the Riverway and an advisory board will be led by Bob Duffy, president of the Chamber of Commerce, and Anne Kress, president of Monroe Community College.Â
This article appears in Apr 25 – May 1, 2018.
ROC poverty first.