Planning to focus civic life north of downtown around the river began in the 1990's. RiverFirst is an ongoing initiative started in 2011 to revitalize the waterfront through interconnected green spaces along the river from downtown to the northern boundary of the city. Planning and engagement continued as the City and MPRB updated master plans for the Above the Falls area to the current effort which focuses on the Upper Harbor Terminal site.
Over the years the City and MPRB gathered input on what amenities would bring them to the riverfront. Music, river access and trails, food, and markets were some of the most common requests. The City, MPRB, and developers are seeking more information about these amenities, and others, that will help guide initial designs of a riverfront destination and public space.