PROGRESS and MAJOR CHALLENGES What has been accomplished and how should we focus our future efforts? PROGRESS
After 30 years of effort, Riverside Park is very much improved and is a vital center of community activity. Almost all of its athletic fields and playgrounds have been restored; the marina and Rotunda and athletic field complexes have been activated. The bicycle network has been stitched together with major connections along the River. The maintenance force has been effectively organized, and the park inspection ratings frequently put Riverside Park at the top of the city wide rating program. The Riverside Park Conservancy is extremely effective for its size, and its impact on the Park is well focused on horticulture care, volunteer support, strategic fundraising and advocacy for the capital restoration program. In 2016 private funding paid for $3.1 million in park operation, restoration and program expenses. The inhouse landscape architect has expeditiously and expertly coordinated the design and construction of much of the park’s fabric. Yet despite this progress, the park faces some major challenges. The deterioration of forest areas, drainage systems, pavements, and masonry structures have exceeded the ability of the current maintenance force. There are 19 City funded workers in 2016, which is half of the 2002 work force. Riverside Park Master Plan 2016
MAJOR CHALLENGES Circulation
The success of the bike route created hazardous conditions for bikers and pedestrians. • Bicycle and pedestrian conflict occurs frequently, especially on the waterfront esplanade. • It is important to create a dedicated route for bikes. Neighborhood populations are aging • There is a need for trip-free and wheelchair access.
Recreation and Structures
Important structures, including the centerpiece, the Rotunda, are highly deteriorated and their continued use is threatened. • The employee work areas at the Rotunda are unhealthy. • The Rotunda and esplanade are not ADA compliant • The Rotunda is subject to flooding. • There is now an active project at the City Department of Transportation that will restore the structure. Funding will be needed for the fountain and public use areas. Park neighborhoods north of 105th Street are inadequately served by playgrounds and restrooms.
Infrastructure and Landscape
Riverside Drive retaining walls, stairs and granite on the 1937 park and parkway structures, and river bulkheads require inspection, stone resetting and repointing. Portions of the Park and the Henry Hudson Parkway are within the 100-year flood plain and need to be modified to survive floods. The Park-wide deterioration of drainage systems, pavements and masonry structures affect the usability of the Park and create an appearance of disrepair. Forests, trees and plants throughout the park need care. • The horticulture staff of the park is inadequate for the size of the Park. • There is a need for more trained and coordinated staff.
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