7.4. EDSR 12-21-2020 - Laserfiche WebLink

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SUMMARY OF RESEARCH AND RECOMMENDED STRATEGIES EDA STRATEGIC PLAN 28 12. MISSISSIPPI RIVER ACCESS For all of its commitment to quality of life investments, including the development of the beautiful riverfront plaza space in downtown Elk River, there is opportunity for improving the City’s access to its riverfront. Elk River has a trail plan that includes extending trails along the river in both directions from downtown Elk River. Trails along the Mississippi Riverfront would be highly popular, and if the experience of other cities is a guide they will be heavily utilized. From a real estate perspective, water access and trails spur development. There are few amenities that are more attractive than water proximity, and the availability of trail systems, and Mississippi River trails connecting to downtown would extend the development value of downtown Elk River to locations upstream and downstream. As a specific example, a trail downstream and south from downtown Elk River would enhance the value and attractiveness of the already strong Great River Energy site on Highway 10. If extended further to the south of Highway 101 it would also provide additional value and attractiveness to riverfront properties south of the Highway 101 bridge, including the vacant automobile sales lot on Zane Street. Another way to increase the relationship of Elk River to the river would be to explore how some of the existing or future downtown development could be positioned to improve its orientation toward the Mississippi River. Strategies/Actions 12a. Continue building out the City's trail system along the Mississippi River, with a priority on trails connecting downtown Elk River to locations upstream and downstream of downtown. 12b. As part of an updated downtown development plan, explore ways to increase the orientation of some downtown businesses and development toward the river.