Challenges faced in developing the Sacagawea Heritage Trail:
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers owned the levees…federal control
Cities wanted Corps to convey the shoreline land to cities for local control (citizens hesitant to spend tax dollars on property they don’t own or cannot guarantee investments will be protected)
How to rally citizen support for spending tax dollars on trails and parks and waterfront infrastructure/amenities.
Spent many years working toward conveyance of deeds.
Water Resources Development Act indicated property shall transfer to local control
FEMA Study said levees could be safely lowered up to 12 feet; USACE comfortable with only 4-6 feet depending on location within McNary pool.