By Carla Zanoni
DNAinfo Reporter/Producer
INWOOD — The renovation of seven blocks of Inwood waterfront came one step closer to becoming a reality last week when the New York City Economic Development Corporation unveiled its preliminary design for the Sherman Creek Esplanade along the Harlem River.
If the project ultimately receives funding from the city, the renovation would transform one of the last industrial stretches of Manhattan’s shoreline.
Among the improvements proposed are a boathouse, a fishing pier, a playground, basketball courts and facilities for outdoor performances. The final cost of the project will depend upon which amenities are chosen.
Though the NYCEDC has ideas of its own, the purpose of last week's meeting was to solicit ideas and feedback from community residents.
"Participants were generally excited about the presentation," NYCEDC spokesperson Kyle Sklerov said, explaining that many of the event's 50 attendees expressed interest in recreation for people of all ages and waterfront access.
The meeting was the latest of several held with the community and elected officials after the city dropped a more ambitious plan to rezone Sherman Creek earlier this year.
The next step in the design process will be a presentation made by the NYCEDC to local Community Board 12 in the fall. In the meantime, those interested can view the preliminary design and email the NYCEDC with suggestions.