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View of river may be evolving

A letter writer to the Minot Daily News suggests that the Souris River could become a centerpiece for the city, as rivers are in so many places today.

Advocates for an environmental approach to the riverfront sit on the city council.

An entire plan has been developed for incorporating public use of the riverfront into plans for flood protection.

To the curious eye, it might appear that perspectives on the river might just be changing. It wasn’t that long ago that a study revealed a high percentage of Minot residents felt fear and trepidation when it came to the river. This was, of course, entirely understandable given the flood history in Minot.

Yet, perhaps the apparent certainty of flood protection and signs of actual progress have people seeing less threat from the Souris, and possibly more of the potential.

Of course, the river is potential for Minot. One could assert it is the most important factor in the long-term future of Minot. That is how it has worked in countless communities around the country, large and small. And, yes, many of those places have to address flooding concerns as well.

Just how the river could be utilized for economic development, as recreational space, and as an important link to the revitalization of downtown remains to be seen. We are a long way from seeing a practical vision put forward that has popular support.

But at least it is part of the conversation – and that’s a worthy development.

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