Published: July 30, 2009 11:07 pm      

Potomac River study moves forward

CUMBERLAND — Subcommittees to study the Potomac River’s economic potential within the city of Cumberland and throughout the region have been formed by the Allegany County Chamber of Commerce.

A group of 50 people representing government, business, tourism and nonprofit agencies met recently to discuss the topic. Aircon Engineering and PharmaCare sponsored the event.

Rick Thayer, co-chair of the chamber’s Economic Development Committee, provided context for the visioning session.

Subcommittees formed include Canal Place River Access, facilitated by Guy Winterberg; Clean It, Mark Bowen; Learning Center/Outdoor Laboratory, Frank Fotia; Riverwalk Development, Patty Alexander; and Dam Removal, Jim Thompson.

It was suggested that all subcommittees meet within the next two to three weeks to examine the goal through a strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats analysis and prepare strategies. Reports will be shared with the River Project Steering Committee, chaired by Thayer. The chamber will serve as the coordinating entity for the project.

Eliot Pfanstiehl was facilitator of the River Project Visioning Session.

Attendees shared their personal memories of the river, which revealed elements of education, economic potential, appreciation for nature, recreation, romance, spirituality, social interaction and inspiration. They were asked to write a specific idea, identify it as a short-term or long-term goal, and present it to the group. The goals were then ranked and the top five formed the basis of the subcommittees.

For more information or to volunteer for a subcommittee, contact the chamber at (301) 722-2820.