Reconnecting River and Region: Blueway Network Design Guidelines for Socio-Ecological Resilience along the James River Corridor

Abstract

This thesis investigates the foundational principles that inform the strategic planning of blueways and examines their practical application within the James River corridor in Virginia. By positioning the corridor from Richmond to Williamsburg as a case study, the research articulates a replicable framework for blueway development aimed at enhancing recreational access, connectivity, and socio-ecological resilience. In contrast to the well-established network of greenways across the United States, blueways remain underdeveloped and lack a cohesive design methodology. This absence of standardized frameworks inhibits the integration of river systems into the cultural and ecological fabric of adjacent communities, perpetuating a historical disconnection from waterways that once functioned as vital community arteries. The project proposes a reimagined narrative for the James River corridor, guided by research-based and experimental design strategies that cultivate dynamic interactions between human and non-human systems. Through a series of design interventions and policy-driven recommendations, this study outlines how a strategically implemented blueway can activate the river as both a recreational resource and a socio-ecological catalyst. Ultimately, the thesis contributes a set of transferable design guidelines and planning insights that address a significant gap in the discourse and practice of blueway development, offering a model for other riverine landscapes looking to foster resilience, access, and connectivity.