COOPERATIVE RIVERFRONT PLANNING: THE COLORADO RIVER, GRAND JUNCTION, COLORADO

Abstract

Abstract The Colorado River, the largest river system in the western United States stretches from the headwaters in Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado to Mexico. This mighty river evokes strong feelings and images to many people. Rich in history, it offers a haven for outdoor enthusiasts as well as for wildlife. Unfortunately, this image of the majestic river does not hold true for the segment running through Grand Junction, where the Colorado (formerly known as the Grand) and the Gunnison Rivers meet. Once the "lifeline" of the community, the river had become a neglected and forgotten resource, with its banks being lined with salvage yards and other undesirable industrial uses.In 1985 the community embarked on an ambitious project to reclaim the Colorado River corridor. The appointed Riverfront Commission's goals are to maximize recreational use and public access, preserve and rehabilitate the wildlife and riparian habitat along the river, and promote the reclamation of the river as a source of community pride and economic revitalization for the Grand Valley.The success of the project to date can be attributed to the coordinated effort by many local state and federal agencies, as well as wide spread community support from a variety of diverse interests.

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