An Impact Study of Harborview Plaza, La Crosse, Wisconsin
Abstract
The study investigates the impact of Harborview Plaza, which is
the urban renewal project of the La Crosse river front area. This
paper includes a short history of the events that led to the deterioration
of the area. Some of the questions examined are: what effect will
the project have on the established businesses in the C.B.D., do
businessmen view it as beneficial or as a threat to their existence, is
it beneficial for the public, and what is the public reaction to
Harborview.
Much of the information for this study was obtained by personal
interviews with the city engineer, city planner, and the La Crosse
Redevelopment Authority.
A search of the available literature was made. This was
basically the La Crosse Tribune, reports by the city planner, and other
studies made by different departments of the city that affect the water
front area.
To get the viewpoint of the city businesses, a questionnaire was
distributed among downtown businessmen. A citizen survey was used to
find out how Harborview was seen by the public and what the public
expects from it.
The results of the study are as follows: 1) La Crosse has
already realized an increased tax base by the relocation of businesses
to other areas of the city, 2) it is a general consensus that most
businessmen are in favor of Harborview Plaza even if it poses certain
problems, and 3) the public is in favor of the plaza.
Subject
Harborview Plaza (La Crosse, Wis.)
Urban renewal -- Wisconsin -- La Crosse