Talking Together

Other provocative ideas that came out of the discussion of strategies included formation of a bi-national youth leadership group, creation of a regional historical organization, and work on establishing standards of quality in heritage and cultural destinations.

Natural and Built Environments

Participants in one discussion saw a great opportunity to consider the natural and built environments as related to economic development; to link the environment with cultural heritage and history; to capitalize on tremendous resources; and to “re-imag­ine” the region.

Those in another group described the opportunity more in terms of the great assets of the region, including the river, the region’s geology and climate, as well as a host of human-made assets - grain elevators, hydroelectric palnts, canals, historic architecture, transportation links, "real cities" and "quaint hamlets."

There was strong sentiment in both groups, however, that regional planning is a key strategy for improving the natural and built environment.

Some participants called for a comprehensive inventory of re-sources, existing plans, land uses, organizations, jurisdiciton, and economic sectors as a mean sof building from on-going work.

Participants also emphasized the need to develop clear principles for a regional plan in order to emphasize diversity, ecosystem thinking, sustainability, and appropaiate development. THe plan shoul dwork to make the region a world-class destination; build on existing assets of river, parks, and green infrastructure; and link people, parks and attractions to each other in "one region."

Some participants cited the importance of green ingrastructure in a plan, but stresseed its inter-jurisdictional nature and the potential for a heriatge corridor. A possible role for UB "State of the Region" work was also defined.

Specific recommendations from the discussion groups included:

Placing the focus on in vestment in Niagara Falls, NY: Participants emphasized investment in the U.S. side of our bi-nations city as a key to any re-gional development strategy. The region can'g be great if Niagara Falls, NY is wanting. Make it the "Destination of the Millennium."

Putting an emphasis on doing what's possible: Some of the problems we face are huge. We need to sort out small and achievable projects and start working on them. That will bring us closer to solbing the big problems.

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