People have spoken, and they want better access to the Allegheny River in Tarentum.

A public survey sponsored by the nonprofit Friends of the Riverfront revealed that people are eager to see public docks, fishing piers and other amenities along the borough’s stretch of shoreline.

“Now is the time to think about what that area should look like,” Borough Manager Dwight Boddorf said. “With the trail coming through, we don’t want to end up doing double work and should plan to incorporate any other changes council and residents desire to line up with the changes that are coming anyway.”

Results of the survey will be discussed Tuesday during council’s meeting.

Friends of the Riverfront will present plans for the Tarentum-­East Deer segment of the larger, 33-mile Three Rivers Heritage Trail, including required modifications to Riverview Memorial Park.

“This is an important first step in opening the door to the positive economic impacts a recreational attraction like this trail and possible riverfront development can provide to our borough and nearby communities,” council President Scott Dadowski said.

As proposed, the trail will connect Dreshar Stadium in Tarentum to the New Kensington Bridge (Ninth Street Bridge) in East Deer.

Friends of the Riverfront hosted the online survey to collect input on what people want to see when the trail is constructed. There were questions about whether people want public art, restrooms, water fountains or other amenities.

They asked how often the trail would be used and whether it would be for biking, walking or birding.

“The riverfront and Riverview Park have long been the borough’s greatest assets,” Dadowski said. “We must showcase this area and make it an area for all residents. With the trail coming through, now is the time to plan, develop and provide an opportunity for everyone to enjoy the beautiful riverfront.”

As proposed, the path will travel along First Avenue near Dreshar Stadium and the Tarentum pump house, through the park and then on to the fishing platform and Allegheny River boat launch beneath the Tarentum Bridge.

An access road through the boat launch parking lot will connect walkers to West Fourth Avenue.

Between West Sixth Avenue and East Deer, walkers will pass Pittsburgh Brewing Co. and head down to the bridge.

Councilman Brian Snyder said a large section of the riverfront traditionally has been held under private leases.

“With redevelopment, expansion and better access, it will be transformed into a tourism destination for everyone,” he said.

The project has been targeted since 2011, when a Community Trails Initiative was completed to analyze the feasibility of connecting 16 Alle-Kiski Valley communities with the Heritage Trail. The goal is to extend the trail about 26 miles to connect to Freeport.

Council is expected to launch a feasibility study for the work soon.

It will define possible paths forward and outline required permitting, easements, right of way acquisitions and any environmental or historic impacts, Boddorf said.

“By connecting to the established trail systems to the north and south, and adding public boating access alongside fishing, we’re looking to replicate the success stories we’ve seen occurring in other communities in the region who have embraced the economic opportunities trails and their users provide,” Dadowski said.

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