The Riverwalk

The Ipswich Riverwalk was created two years ago as a pedestrian link for the downtown district to the SoCho district of town. Downtown is lined with shops and restaurants. There is a constant flow of vehicular and pedestrian traffic. The SoCho district is south of the Choate bridge. This area is filled with museums, the visitors center and soon to have an entertainment venue. At this time there is not much pedestrian traffic. The main road traveling through this part of town is also the main way out of town. While these two sides of the river are very different, the riverwalk provides an excellent link between the two. I have never found a need to use the riverwalk as a pedestrian path in my travel. I will specifically choose to walk that way because of the scenery. In my study this week, that seems to be a common thought.

The Riverwalk is a small public place set along the Ipswich river. It's many views include the Choate bridge, Ipswich Falls and the general beauty of the river. The space is filled with large planters overflowing with colorful flowers. There are five benches and three picnic tables located in this space offering views up and down the river. Two small structures offer shade over two of the benches. Although it is a small space, it is also a small town.

Many different people use the space through out the week. During the weekdays, the employees of EBSCO are often seen enjoying their lunches at the picnic tables. There always seems to be people sitting on the benches around lunch time. The weekends attract a more casual crowd. I have observed people reading a book, napping and just catching up with friends while seated in the space. I even observed a small boy fishing off the bridge. A rare occurence is anyone that doesn't take a moment to pause as they walk across the river. Almost all users find themselves sitting down for awhile or staring into the water. At night, many people can be seen looking up at the stars, walking through the space. Overall, the people using the space are diverse in age and activity. Rarely have I observed this space not in use.

As the name implies, the Riverwalk's beauty is in the river. It serves as a chance to sit and study the movement of the river. The Ipswich Falls are located at the site. High and low tide also provide a change in the river that one can notice over the afternoon. I enjoy watching the large turtle population sunning themselves on the rock. A few fish always seem to be jumping. The river creates a peaceful setting for someone to relax and enjoy nature while only being yards away from shops and restaurants. The large buildings of EBSCO serve to help block out the street noise. It is a peaceful oasis in the center of town. I enjoy the Riverwalk. I find it be a beautfiul place to read a book, sketch or watch the clouds go by. The success comes not in the purpose of the riverwalk but instead in the opportunity to enjoy a bit of nature.