Vision Statement:
High Falls State Park is an oasis of natural beauty in the heart of Rochester that connects communities and visitors with the awe-inspiring Genesee River gorge and waterfall, as well as the city’s rich ecological, cultural, and industrial history.
Park Themes:
Ecology
Goal: Re-establish an ecological foundation for immersive nature experiences in the city.
Objectives:
- Protect local wildlife and existing plant communities of value
- Restore site soils and site-appropriate native habitats
- Consider aesthetic and cultural dimensions of ecological restoration
- Establish education programs focusing on ecology and native plants
- Foster partnerships with local organizations and schools to support environmental education.
- Implement sustainable practices, including reduced carbon in both construction and operations.
Equity
Goal: Express equity in access, engagement, design, and cultural interpretation.
Objectives:
- Ensure access to the Genesee River and natural areas for all residents.
- Support park access for adjacent neighborhoods.
- Promote appreciation of the river’s history and natural resources.
- Improve accessibility for all individuals and implement universal design principles.
- Coordinate with the City of Rochester on equitable development policies.
Programming
Goal: Provide recreational and educational opportunities that take advantage of the site’s dramatic setting and history.
Objectives:
- Balance programmed spaces and natural areas.
- Develop facilities for outdoor recreation and education.
- Create spaces for individualized and group activities.
- Support public concerts and activities, including story sharing and cultural events.
- Make the park a year-round cultural center.
- Ensure safety at night.
- Consider some revenue-generating program while maintaining a majority of free, accessible activities.
Connectivity
Goal: Connect the park seamlessly with Downtown, adjacent neighborhoods, and the Genesee River corridor.
Objectives:
- Enhance pedestrian paths and connections from local neighborhoods and downtown to the park.
- Integrate biking and walking trails to Lake Ontario.
- Centralize parking outside the park and provide public transit access to the park.
- Encourage car-free visits.
- Create a sense of arrival to the park.
- Create multiple connections between the City and the gorge.
- Build a pedestrian bridge to connect both sides of the park over the river in the lower gorge.
- Improve signage for all ages and promote the park’s significance in the regional trail system.
Heritage
Goal: Honor the Genesee River’s cultural significance and Rochester’s rich industrial heritage.
Objectives:
- Honor and make visible the cultural history of the Genesee River.
- Retain remaining historic relics.
- Interpret the site’s industrial legacy.
- Acknowledge Rochester’s history of innovation.
- Highlight advances in energy production.
- Partner with local organizations on interpretation and messaging.