DOWNTOWN WARREN Officials dispute study on Riverwalk

Attention has been given to the area's environment and history, the city says.
By AMANDA DAVIS
VINDICATOR TRUMBULL STAFF
WARREN -- Officials are disputing a study undertaken by a city employee who says architectural plans for the city's Riverwalk project negatively affect the environment and disregard local history.
Alex Bobersky, grants coordinator for the city's community development department, produced the study, which was released Feb. 23.
He first conceptualized the Riverwalk project in the 1980s but was recently taken off the project. He faces possible disciplinary action for the study.
Mayor Hank Angelo said Bobersky's study incorrectly implies it was released with the mayor's approval, which it was not.
Riverwalk plans, in part, call for pedestrian and bicycle trails along the Mahoning River, an outdoor amphitheater, picnic areas, a promenade and gazebos.
Bobersky said architectural plans compromise wetlands and trees, among other things.
A complete wetlands study has been done, and reviewed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, city officials said, and minimal impact will be further reduced by adjusting plans for the location of a promenade.
Other concerns: Placement of an outdoor amphitheater has also been contested by Bobersky, but officials say numerous meetings were held and the plan was agreed to by a Riverwalk construction committee.
Bobersky has said architectural plans call for removal of at least 178 trees from the area proposed for construction. Some trees will be removed, officials said, but efforts will be taken to plant others nearby.
The administration also disputes Bobersky's claims that there will not be storm water prevention and erosion control plans in place.
Bobersky's report shows concern that there will not be enough handicap-accessible drinking fountains and that plans do not call for accessibility for an outdoor stage.
Officials say architectural plans call for two such water fountains in the first construction phase and for a ramp leading to the stage.
The administration agrees with Bobersky that permanent restrooms are needed on festival grounds, but said portable restrooms will be used at first, as funds will not be available to build permanent facilities until another phase of construction.
Planning: Angelo said Wednesday that plans for the Riverwalk were not the result of "snap decisions" but rather a 12-year process that included much input from the public, planners, architects and officials.
Mike Keys, executive director of Warren Redevelopment and Planning, which is now in charge of the project, said Riverwalk would not be a reality without Bobersky's vision and early planning.
Keys said Bobersky's concerns are real, but historical and environmental upsets have been given consideration and have been minimized.
Phillips/Sekanick Architects of Warren has been hired to design the first phase. Architects issued a press release Wednesday saying, "We have no intention to destroy or adversely affect the area" but rather to enhance it.