It is no secret that Ironton’s downtown riverfront property has been under-utilized for years, but that could change in the near future.

City officials are moving forward with tentative plans that could add recreational opportunities that include a park as well as retail businesses, a restaurant and even residential apartments on at least a portion of the 11 acres that are being eyed for development.

Many have long advocated that the city needs to do more with its property along the Ohio River and this looks like another positive step in the right direction.

The city outlined a general plan several years ago and has been moving toward that ever since, although these types of projects don’t move as quickly as many people would like.

Utilizing this property for multiple types of development could pay dividends because it will help generate foot traffic, promote further investment in the area and help the entire riverfront become a cleaner and safer part of Ironton.

Cities very similar to Ironton all along the Ohio River have found ways to make their riverfronts vital components of their communities, with a range of offerings from recreation to commercial developments.

Revitalizing Ironton will not be accomplished with one great success and it won’t happen overnight.

But success can be realized through a steady and consistent effort. This riverfront project looks to be another positive step.