Over the past few decades and across the globe, cities have been increasingly reimagining their waterways and -fronts. Hydrologic infrastructure projects, from Cheonggyecheon in Seoul to the LA River Revitalization Project (to be helmed by Frank Gehry), have the potential to inspire renewed relationships between urbanites and their city.

But they also run the risk of becoming subsumed in preexisting, local political conflicts – sometimes draining the city's coffers in the process.




The Flussbad plan for Berlin proposes cleaning up a section of the canal that runs around Museum Island and connects into the River Spree.

Imagined by the design firm realities:united, the plan could include a sandy bottom and new plantings to filter the polluted water, making it safe enough for swimming at a beach in front of the landmark museums.

Notably, the plan is backed by a diverse coalition of figures spanning the political spectrum, alongside architects, planners, and environmentalists, which could significantly improve the chances for its realization.

And it has precedents, like the Copenhagen Harbour Baths and, more generally, efforts to clean up the Copenhagen Harbour at the turn of the this century. 

Related:

• "They should grow up": Frank Gehry to critics of his involvement with the L.A. River
• Gehry to prioritize hydrology in LA River revitalization strategy
• Berliners are getting their hopes up for transformed Kulturforum arts district
• Berlin's world-class museums struggle to build up excitement