After a three-year study those with the Lancaster-York Heritage Region and Rivertownes PA USA announced a plan that will help revitalize the Susquehanna River communities of Wrightsville, Columbia, Marietta and the surrounding area. The goal of the River Towns Heritage Development Strategy is to improve the physical and economic condition of the towns and thereby improve the quality of life for the residents and provide a unique and enjoyable experience for visitors.

Mark Platts, president of the Lancaster-York Heritage Region, said the strategy will "help these communities capitalize on their strong historical character and setting while continuing to preserve the river and adjoining landscape."

The Strategy identifies five key goals to enhance the River Towns:

* Position the River Towns as thriving gateways to the natural beauty and recreation amenities of the Susquehanna.

* Strengthen connections between the town and the river, physically and in terms of communal identity.

* Bring the centers of these historic towns back to life.

* Retain distinctions between the River Towns and the surrounding agricultural and natural landscape.

* Heighten understanding of the history and heritage of the River Towns.

Specific goals include making improvements to South Front Street in Wrightsville to make it more pedestrian friendly. The plan also suggests putting a roundabout on the Route 462 bridge to help with traffic.

In Columbia the plan suggests to create a pedestrian walkway underneath the pier, expand Rotary Park and Riverfront Park.

In Marietta the plan suggests to make enhancements to Gay Street.

To find out more about the strategy visit http://www.storiesoftheland.com

Jonathan Pinkerton with the Lancaster-York Heritage Region said it's now up to municipal leaders to decide whether to implement the specific ideas the group has suggested.