The planned greenway along the edge of the RiverBend site embraces the Buffalo River shoreline and integrates shoreline ecological restoration and enhancement into the redevelopment of the RiverBend site as a whole. The Greenway Plan describes the enhancement needs in the river and the approaches that could be taken along the shoreline to restore natural habitat function in conjunction with the Buffalo Riverkeeper’s work. It also provides suggested design and plant palette recommendations for the riparian woodland enhancement and urban tree canopy along the greenway, and describes the integration of trails and access points.
As part of the broader green infrastructure framework, the Greenway Plan’s habitat improvements along the Buffalo River shoreline will also contribute to concurrent river restoration efforts, providing improved water filtration before it reaches the river, and increased shade from overhanging vegetation will improve cover for aquatic species.