Precedents and Possibilities

Seldom is a thing done for the very first time; there are always precedents for action. For example, people in other places have already worked to regenerate brownfields, to develop tourism by celebrating local heritage, and to build collaboration on a regional basis and across intervening jurisdictional boundaries. Indeed, some of this is already happening here in the Niagara city-region.

The March 2000 conference brought together a series of provocative speakers to address relevant precedents and possibilities, as well as to talk about what is already happening in the region. A background paper on regional and inter-jurisdictional efforts to celebrate heritage, grow tourism, and improve the natural and built environment was also prepared. Following the forum, the Urban Design Project commissioned the creation of an historical essay to explain the broader experience of cultural and economic connection between New York and Ontario.

The Jewel of the Region

Brian Merrett, chair of Ontario’s Niagara Parks Commission (NPC) led off the presentations in March with a review of ongoing development of park properties that are the leading attraction of the region. Merrett called the Falls and the park the “catalyst for tourism and stimulant for economic growth.” (See page 20).

Visitation to the falls is growing rapidly. By 2002 Merrett expects 20 million people will visit annually, up 23 per cent over the last three years. One study estimated 25,000 new jobs will be created on the Canadian side alone by 2003.

Merrett said the Parks Commission faces the challenge of developing new attractions that will bring tour­ists and economic wealth while preserving the quality of parklands at the same time. The “greening” of NPC assets has begun with new off-site bus parking, recycling, and com­posting.

Other major projects are ongoing, including a people mover to connect visitors to a range of destinations and to ease traffic, parking, and pollution problems in the park; an expansive new golf complex at Chippewa; reuse of old power buildings in Victoria Park; a new marina upriv­er, and more.

A Platform for Collaboration

Mary Means, a noted U.S. planner and an expert on cultural heritage corridors, talked about how the heritage corridor concept has provided a platform for boundary-cross­ing collaboration in dozens of settings. (See page 24).

Many regions around the United States have used the “heritage corridor” framework to develop, interpret, link, and promote a wide range of historical, cultural, architectural, natural, and other attractions for the benefit of visitors and local economies alike.

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