Why do we need to fund a Riverwalk & Trail when there are potholes and other needed improvements in various parts of the city and county?

• The TEA 21 money is being given for a specific purpose and must be used only for that purpose.
  
• This is a rare opportunity for Columbus to receive $1,100,000 to make our community more livable, for such a small amount of matching dollars (20%). The situation now is … we use it or we lose it.
  
• Columbus is fortunate to have a waterway within proximity to develop as part of their town and county and reap the economic benefits.
• Read more on the Funding Sources page.

Why should I support this project, I don't have anyone in my part of the county that would use the walk?

• The Riverwalk & Trail will provide a location to generate increased traffic which will, in turn, increase tax revenues. An increase in revenue might allow increased dollars to fix potholes in other parts of the city and county.
  
• It is more than just a trail; it will be a park. Everyone might not use it, but it will be available for everyone to use.
  
• Recreational demand is at an all time high. This area will provide an area for a wide variety of activities from family reunions and picnics to field trips and training courses.
• Read more about potential activities along the Riverwalk on the Activities page.

Won't a Riverwalk & Trail just create another place for vandalism?

• According to five cities with developed walkways or riverwalks surveyed for this study, vandalism has not been a problem. In some cases, it has actually reduced mischief and destruction because of the increased presence of people. Because the Riverwalk will be well built and aesthetically beautiful it will attract people to the area.
• Read more about similar projects in other cities on the Similar Projects page.
  
• Most structures and facilities will be constructed as vandal proof as possible.
• Learn more about the fixtures chosen in the Image Gallery.

Who is going to maintain it, what maintenance will it need and what will be the cost of the upkeep?

• Organizations such as the Columbus Garden Club Council, Main Street Columbus, and the Boy Scouts could assist in maintenance.
  
• Design of the project will include low maintenance landscaping, native plants and materials and limited grassy areas.

How much security will be needed to make the Riverwalk & Trail a safe place?

• Emergency phones will be built into the design for additional security and for immediate reporting of suspicious activities.
  
• Based on other cities in the survey, there have been few problems, however one of the towns surveyed uses a bicycle patrol.
  
• The Police Department and the Sheriffs department can use auxiliary officers to help patrol the area.
• Read more about security in the Maintenance & Security Plan.

What affect will flooding have on the Riverwalk?

• The Riverwalk & Trail has been designed for flooding and will include lights, benches and trash receptacles that will withstand flooding.
• Read more about flooding in the Maintenance & Security Plan.