Vision 2015 releases master plan for Licking Greenway

Vision 2015 has released a final report on a master plan for the development of a Licking River Greenway and Trails system between the I-275 bridge and the Ohio River.

Started in October 2007 and designed by the firms of Woolpert and Human Nature, the plan takes into account the various planning efforts, proposed development, cultural and historical resources, ecosystems and infrastructure throughout the river corridor and includes both an initial, achievable implementation phase as well as longer-term possibilities.

In addition to identifying several new park opportunities, the master plan maps a network of connective, regional trails; a water trail with new river access points and crossings; cultural and natural assets; and existing parks and green infrastructure.

The plan fits into Vision 2015's broader goal of creating more exciting, active places to live through revamping education, creating jobs, revitalizing the urban core, and promoting parks.

"Communities that have identified their natural resources and cultural assets, and have enhanced them, are going to be the ones that are economically competitive," says Pat Timm, civic engagement coordinator for the Licking River Greenway.

The corridor will eventually connect to the Little Miami Trail, through the proposed Riverfront Commons and the Ohio River Trail.

"That will make it not only a recreational amenity, but also a destination that will go from Northern Kentucky to Springfield, Ohio," Timm says.

Funding sources, which could include federal grants and private foundation funds, will be examined in greater detail as the implementation phase of the project progresses.

Timm believes that funding won't be difficult to find, especially with the Obama administration's focus on infrastructure and jobs.

"I believe it can be done," she says.  "I believe that we in Northern Kentucky have the commitment to do it, and that the challenges of raising money are not really any different today than they have ever been."

Writer: Kevin LeMaster
Source: Pat Timm, civic engagement coordinator, Licking River Greenway
Illustration provided