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Show than some fishing and swimming. Even these activities have been essentially non- existent for the last thirty or forty years in the north end of Salt Lake Valley. The lack of protection for the environs of the river as well as the pollution of its waters are undoubtedly high on the list of reasons why local residents are not attracted to the river. Another reason is the lack of totally integrated plan of development for the river environment. This has resulted in land parcelling which prevents continuous access to the river, and allows the introduction of land uses which are foreign to recreational activities. A report prepared by Urban Technology Associates for the Salt Lake County Board of Commissionersl05 suggests a natural parkway concept for development of the Jordan River. A heavily planted corridor or " parkway" is proposed through the center of the Salt Lake Valley within which the Jordan River would be allowed to remain essentially in its natural course. The conce. pt of a natural parkway originated as a flood control system, but also offers a great recreational opportunity. The natural parkway not only provides a link between the formal parks and between neighborhoods, but it also allows for direct recreational usage by groups who do not now have adequate facilities in the formal parks. City bicycle trails are an example. Although the narrow portions of the parkway do not lend themselves to Softball and other athletic activities, they are perfect for the bicycle enthusiast. The future will demand more multiple- use facilities which reach larger segments of the population. Past park designs have favored activities such as little league programs and Softball which serve only a very small segment of the population yet occupy large areas of high maintenance park space. In contrast, picnic areas, covered or open, appeal to a much larger cross section of society. Picnic shelters adjacent to natural areas and hiking trails of the present park system are always reserved first and receive almost constant use. The parkway would serve very well in not only making possible new picnic facilities but also in providing a natural area with hiking trails adjacent to other formal parks, thus enhancing their use as picnicking facilities. The Jordan River Parkway master plan! 05 indicates general areas for hiking, bicycles, horseback riding, fishing, and 152 |