A Summer Beer Garden will improve security

[bloomingkit]

I think the owner of the Riverfront Park (city or Park Board) could take bids for a vendor to start a summer beer garden. Make tables so people can bring their own food (maybe sell pretzels) and use reusable cups (charge a deposit). Then, make the beer high quality, and expensive, to help keep winos away. Not only would this help keep workers in Huntington after work, but it would be a beautiful way to enjoy the riverfront.

Regarding security, I refer to Jane Jacobs's excellent chapter in her "Death and Life of Great American Cities." The best way to prevent crime is by having foot traffic. This is why there is more crime/vandalism in alleys than on main streets. This is also why you feel safer if there are other people walking around, and why it feels creepy to be on a city block all by yourself.

The best way to make Riverfront Park safe is by creating a "magnet" to draw a variety of people to spend time there. There will be less crime and therefore even more attractive to others. Instead of a vicious circle, you'd have a pleasant snowball effect.

[Richard Cobb]

Nice creative idea, bloomingkit. Keep them coming!