Often times broken records are worth listening to because the tune itself is that important.

That couldn’t be more true than for development of Ironton’s property along the Ohio River and also the need to create an achievable plan to protect the investment and those who will take advantage of it.

The city has moved forward with its development plans by hiring Cincinnati-based KZF Design, Inc., to provide engineering services for walking and bicycle trails along several acres adjacent to the center street landing boat ramp

This component will be paid for with a more than $100,000 grant from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources but is really only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the city’s plans for this important property.

Ultimately this could become a huge asset as a combination recreation area and commercial development that could feature shopping, dining and even living options.

The newspaper has never been shy about emphasizing how important this development could be for the city and its future. By the same token, The Tribune has never wavered on the importance of having a plan in place to police and protect this area.

The city’s school of thought has essentially been that those details can be worked out once something is there. A more reasonable assessment is that something is there right now — historical murals, a train car, river boat access and a restaurant –- but many citizens shy away because of what they rightfully perceive as safety concerns and poor property maintenance.

Developing the river and having a plan to safeguard it must go hand in hand.

Nothing about that song has changed and the proverbial record will keep playing until the city starts singing the tune.