How Much Work Still to Do, MWA Task Forces Are Reconvening

Wednesday, February 17, 2010 - 6:53pm

Members are Brainstorming About Funding, the Political Process and New Programs

In 2007, it seemed like a novel plan, if somewhat unwieldy: convene hundreds of waterfront representatives -- scientists, engineers, urban planners, community advocates, government workers, boat captains and other stakeholders -- to develop a shared vision for the waterways of New York and New Jersey.

The Metropolitan Waterfront Alliance did just that, creating six Task Forces -- focused on Aquatecture, Green Harbor, Education, Mass Water Transit, Waterfront Play and the Working Waterfront -- to synthesize the agendas of the MWA's many Partners and prioritize land-use proposals for the waterfront. By the end of 2008, the groups emerged with the Waterfront Action Agenda, a significant document that has already affected economic decisions, environmental priorities, transportation plans and waterfront infrastructure development.

With a proven track record of positive influence, the work of the Task Forces has only begun. Task Force members are now reconvening at the new MWA offices in Lower Manhattan (241 Water Street), tackling issues such as fundraising, new programming, permitting and political jurisdiction.

Here's a glimpse of the process so far--

coastguard The Harbor Education Task Force met on November 10, 2009 and discussed:

creating an inventory of environmental education programs to clarify who does what, improve continuity and facilitate communication;

creating a curriculum framework outlining basic knowledge about the harbor.

The Green Harbor Task Force met on November 19, 2009 and discussed:

new development guidelines that call for environmental restoration to be integrated with waterfront construction;

an ecosystem approach to development rather than dependence solely on regulatory guidance;

the creation of virtual tours of the Harbor for public education.

371 The Harbor Recreation Task Force met on February 8, 2010 and discussed:

the policies and legislation of waterfront access;

the connection between health and waterfront access;

taxing developments and businesses that profit from proximity to the waterfront

Stay tuned for information on more upcoming meetings which will focus in particular on the development of the New York City Comprehensive Waterfront Plan,
an important City Planning document which can help define and guide waterfront development decisions for the next decade. All MWA Task Force meetings will culminate in MWA's 2010 Waterfront Conference to be in held in November 2010.

If you would like more information on the MWA Task Forces, please email Cortney Worrall, MWA's Director of Programs, or call her at 212-935-9831, ext. 102.