Benefits of year-round water in Kern include recreation, tourism, tax base
The battle over Kern River water rights is a complicated and drawn out political quagmire, not one I plan on lending insight to here -- not that I could if I tried. What I do believe is if water flows in the Kern River, permanently and year-round, it would go a long way towards drawing tourists, recreation seekers and development to Bakersfield.
Political and environmental issues aside, the benefits of having year-round water flowing through the Kern River are economic and quantifiable through potential increases in tourism and retail sales. Transient occupancy tax and sales tax paid by visitors lessen the tax burden on Bakersfield residents, and that is something we all can agree is a good thing.
There are plenty of examples of water features stimulating development, retail and tourism. Locally, the Mill Creek Redevelopment project helped attract the new federal courthouse and the commercial development will follow. The Park at Riverwalk is another example of an entertainment and recreational venue centered around water sources.
Regionally, Stockton and Sacramento have marketed their waterfront attractions as a benefit to visitors. On a national level, cities such as Chicago and San Antonio have responsibly developed waterfronts and have realized substantial economic benefits.
There is no doubt that a water source adds a unique feature to a community, something both local citizens and visitors can enjoy. When completed correctly, a riverwalk can be a tourist destination, a catalyst for growth, a job creator and an asset providing a return on investment for many years to come.
Water features, particularly ones the size of a perennially full Kern River, tend to attract retail, recreation and commercial development. With the foresight of many, we already have integral parts of a successful riverwalk -- the Kern River Parkway and the Bright House Networks Amphitheatre.
With water flowing adjacent to the amphitheatre, it could be transformed into a centerpiece attraction. A visitor could rent a bike, pedal to a riverside coffee shop, eat lunch or dinner on a patio overlooking the water and stroll a pedestrian friendly promenade filled with retail shops. When they are done for the day a short ride could take them back to their hotel or to the amphitheatre for a concert.
The potential economic synergy just from having water in the Kern River all year is immense and one that should not go ignored in Sacramento on Feb. 16.
Water in the Kern River also means more recreational opportunities. Fishing, kayaking, tubing and swimming are just a few of the activities that could potentially become a way of life for residents of Bakersfield. Water in the river alone would entice more citizens and visitors to use the Kern River Parkway, promoting physical fitness and increasing quality of life.
The trickledown effect from these activities would be significant. Would the increase in outdoor recreation create enough demand for a big-name outdoor retailer to finally build a long overdue store? I think it would. From fishing equipment and license sales, local retailers could potentially capitalize on the most basic of all human needs -- water.
Of course these are only a few possibilities and merely a vision right now. But through the due diligence of city staff and the support of the community, we are taking a huge first step in creating a natural attraction with unlimited potential. The recent developments are a start to make the "no diving" signs on overpasses relevant for more than 10 days a year. With the decision looming, we have a chance to permanently change the scenery of Bakersfield. Let's not miss this opportunity.
Don I. Cohen is the manager of the Bakersfield Convention & Visitors Bureau.
