OBJECTIVES
Input collected during stakeholder sessions was consolidated and analyzed by the consultant team. Several themes emerged from feedback received. Stakeholders consistently indicated a desire for more public access to and programming around the riverfront. At the same time, there is an obvious preference to keep the river natural and wild wherever possible. Market research indicates an investment in Bismarck’s riverfront may be necessary to keep pace with peer communities around the country. However, stakeholders indicated public investment in the riverfront should minimize any financial burden placed on local taxpayers. The consultant team has developed the following objectives in response to stakeholder feedback:
Objective 1: Diversify river access options.
Provide non-motorized boat ramp facilities / amenities within the study area.
Improve ADA access to beaches, fishing locations, and boat ramps within the study area.
Develop a protected swimming area on the main water channel.
Develop a protected swimming area off the main water channel.
Objective 2: Preserve natural character of the river.
Develop riverfront invasive species control program especially as it relates to Buckthorn, Russian Olive, and similar invasive woody plant species.
Encourage the planting of native plant species along the riverfront and protect remnant cottonwood forests wherever feasible.
Increase the use of native prairie planting in riverfront parks.
Mandate a parking lot setback from the river’s edge within the study area.
Develop a selective pruning and tree removal program to maintain views of the river along the riverfront trail system.
Objective 3: Preserve and improve pedestrian access routes to the Riverfront Trail System.
Improve safety (or perception of safety) at all pedestrian crossings of River Road within the study area.
Develop or improve these 6 critical connection points to the Riverfront Trail System:
River Road / Burnt Boat Drive Intersection (improve)
West Main Avenue Pedestrian Bridge (improve)
Bismarck Expressway Tunnel (improve)
BSC Pedestrian Bridge (develop)
Wastewater Treatment Plant Pedestrian Bridge (develop)
UMary Pedestrian Bridge (develop)
Develop trail linkages to connect gaps in existing trail system.
Develop a wayfinding or signage system that directs users to the Riverfront Trail System from throughout the community.
Objective 4: Encourage the development of additional Riverfront commercial uses in select locations.
Issue a request for proposals for the development of a riverfront boutique hotel.
Explore the feasibility of a new destination commercial user in Sertoma Park.
Explore the feasibility of a new destination commercial user in Pioneer Park.
Provide opportunities for commercial outfitters or vendors to operate businesses on public land adjacent to the river within the study area.
Objective 5: Develop infrastructure for increased public use that can generate revenue and minimize taxpayer burden.
Develop riverfront amphitheater large enough to host regional touring acts that will attract visitors and tourists to Bismarck.
Develop a prominent riverfront festival grounds and park that can be programmed with local events year round.
Identify local partners that can assist with grant pursuits and fund raising efforts for infrastructure and programming within the River District.
Identify local partners for operation, maintenance, and financial support of the River District.
Objective 6: Engage local arts, culture, and heritage related stakeholders to make the riverfront a more active, vibrant, and indelible part of the community’s identity.
Develop a public art policy within the River District.
Develop dynamic interpretive programs for regional history.
Develop an indigenous / cultural inclusion plan for programming and artwork within the River District.
Identify local programming partners and develop a calendar of events for any public-use venues.
Develop winter programming for year round interest.