STUDY'S FINDINGS Warren Riverwalk

Alex Bobersky of the city's Community Development department released a study that shows "findings of significant impact" with architectural plans for the Riverwalk project and Festival Grounds, which include designs for walking and bicycle trails and an outdoor amphitheater along Mahoning River. His study says plans compromise environmental and historical integrity of the area:
Wetland intrusion: The riverside wetland needs to be protected and enhanced. The study suggests plans be modified to allow access to the river without destroying valuable habitat.
Plans are unclear as to whether handicapped-accessible drinking fountains will be available. Also, there is no planned handicap accessibility from the Stephen Foster Promenade to the amphitheater stage, and no drinking fountains along the promenade.
Lack of restrooms throughout grounds: More are needed, as portable facilities are inappropriate.
No surface drainage plan: If the promenade is built to the proposed grade, this may cause the pavement to act as a temporary dam that impedes the increased water velocity caused by flood flows. Drainage is needed under or around the promenade. Also, there may need to be internal drainage within seating terraces in the amphitheater, new parking areas and the driveway.
Erosion control problems: The project's proximity to the Mahoning River requires attention to erosion problems, as to avoid sedimentation and harm to rare aquatic species.
Destruction of century-old trees: The study says the largest and oldest trees should be protected, along with their root zones. There are several large ginkgo trees in the south lawn area that cannot be disturbed, the report says. Other trees and plants removed by construction should be replanted, the study says.
Riparian zone intrusion: The zone is narrow, in the southwest corner of Perkins Park, and should be replanted as natural meadow. This will increase the zone and its habitat diversity. Also, utility installation must take place outside this vegetated riverside zone.
Archeological investigation: Needed everywhere that topsoil is disturbed by construction and excavation.
Placement of amphitheater: Architectural plans place this too close to the historic Kinsman House, or 76 feet away. The study says the structure should be built no closer than 170 feet to protect historical integrity.
Size of amphitheater: Architects' plans should be redrawn to reduce the size of the structure, so as to avoid overwhelming the area.
Construction limits: The first phase of construction will adversely affect more than 3 acres of historic and natural landscape by excavating and recontouring the site. Excavation and recontouring should be minimized, the study says.