The Waterfront Center, 501(c)(3)

The Waterfront Center, a non-profit educational organization, was formed in 1981 in the belief that waterfronts — where the land meets the ocean, bay, lake, river or canal — are unique, finite resources. The vital characteristic that separates waterfronts from other areas in a community is the relationship to water.

Like the cities they help define, urban waterfronts are dynamic places, undergoing profound change. Waterfronts often represent the best opportunity for community enhancement and enrichment.

Since its formation, the Center has chronicled the urban waterfront phenomenon as it has grown and spread worldwide. Communities of all sizes have transformed abandoned, underused waterfront areas for a wide array of new uses, from parks and trails to mixed-use and residential projects, as well as industrial activity.

The Waterfront Center believes that urban waterfronts are important, special assets and that, when redeveloped, they often contribute to healthy traditional communities. Waterfronts can serve as a unifying force in a city or town and can be, and often are, a force for community enrichment. Further, vibrant communities are essential for environmental, economic and social advancement.

The chief goal of the Center is to assist communities and the professions in making the wisest and best long-term uses of waterfront resources for maximum public benefit. We are a public interest, not a lobbying, organization.