Comments and ideas we’ve heard so far from multiple engagement processes are summarized below.
Cost to enter
Accessibility and wayfinding that is inclusive of the large deaf and disabled population in Rochester
Focus on being environmentally friendly, make use of alternate energy and think about waste management
Improve Infrastructure, like shade structure, for future activities
Mural art to enhance community building
Collaboration and unity within communities
Accessibility and safety for seniors
Trail & benches
Traffic control
Separate cyclist/ pedestrian/ tourist from vehicular traffic
Enhance community unity through multi language signs
Cultural hub of year-round events and programs
Prioritize pedestrian and cyclist traffic
Photography
Study forest and bird communities
Artwork integration
Industrial history contributing to Erie Canal development
Planning for 8 to 80 yrs
Amenities like fountains for visitors and pets
Inclusive park that integrates nature, urban infrastructure and historic significance
Solar-power implements
Clear debris from river
Revitalize RoC waterfront
Separate bicycle and pedestrian paths
ADA accessible pickup and dropoff areas
Acknowledge and celebrate historic communities, buildings, resources, “history of sustainability”
Relaxing
Traffic safety and speed control + signage
Enhance Sister City Relationship
Multi-modal transportation, bike access, trails, pedestrian access, cross-city programs
Address displacement concerns, address community skepticism, give the neighboring communities a sense of ownership
Butterfly garden
Passive recreation, like yoga
Bathrooms
Interpretive signs
Gorge wall stair, elevator
There needs to be investment in the community, the bordering neighborhoods are predominantly low-income and would benefit from park programs and learning opportunities
Safe and welcoming access routes to the park from adjacent neighborhoods
Sustainability and ecological stewardship
Native American trails
Educational programming of immigrant history, Hickey Freeman clothing company, geological history, Olmsted Parks, and railroad history
Speed control measurements
Integration into downtown, to the Inner Loop Project, etc.
Urban wildness
Avoid impact vehicular travel on St Paul (cars and large trucks), pedestrian access from across the bridge
Bike from adjacent destinations to High Falls
Pocket gardens
Loop trails with mile markers
Slower car traffic
Seating along trails
Priority on learning opportunities including an ecology center
Aesthetics of Bridge
Native planting
Educational programs, nature exploration, recreational activities
Event center
Programming all year round
Serve diverse population
Public transportation / trolley between city-wide destinations
Connect people to the water
Changing the public perception, introducing a policing presence sensitively
Foster environmental stewardship
Connect communities breaking transportation barriers
Concern over gentrification and displacement
Year-round festivals and events
Capitalize on views, water quality and safety issues
Campground in the city for the youths
Sense of belonging
River Access
Connect kids and adults to natural environment
Trail materials to be more natural, like stone dust
Universal design and inclusivity
Ecology Center
Wayfinding for all ages
Signs should be multi-language
“What would the gorge look like without human involvement?”
Appropriate plants for dry shaded areas
Engage with those who don’t have internet
Safety at lower level
Shade
Connectivity (walkability and bike connection between High Falls and Inner Loop)
RTS access and need for buses to route to the site
Engage younger generations
Picnic
Separate trail use for senior visitors
Community-driven initiative to maintain park’s green spaces
Reclaim industrialized areas to connect people with nature
Include playful elements and tie to the historical elements
Re-activate former museum visitor center
Cleanliness
Promote neighborhood ownership through planting maintenance
Early wins
Community gardens
Equal access to river in all seasons; ramps in winter can be problematic
Safety signs
Beauty of nature
Parking
Active trail with letterboxing or geocaching
Linking residents in farther areas to a local bus route, ensuring sidewalks lead somewhere, etc.
Need off-street connector to High Falls
ADA
Drive infill businesses in disinvested areas
Blue lights