THE RIVERWALK

The Riverwalk is one of Amesbury's newer infrastructure investments and recreational resources. Beautiful scenery and nature surround kids, young and old, while they stroll, bike, roller blade or just discover the beautiful historic area of Amesbury, Massachusetts.

Amesbury's Riverwalk provides scenic vistas overlooking the Powow River and enables its users to observe the river's abundant wildlife. The Powow River joins the Merrimac River in Amesbury less than one mile from Market Square before flowing into the Atlantic Ocean at Plum Island.

The tidal nature of the Powow River makes it an important, and relatively rare, resource. Great blue herons, mink, beaver, a variety of hawks and many other animal species live along it. As the path progresses past Carriage Hill Landing it leaves the bustle of the town center and enters a quiet wooded zone before terminating at the Carriagetown shopping area. Like the best of the bikeways, it has both recreational and utilitarian uses, and urban and natural vistas.

In 1996 Amesbury adopted its city form of governance with a mayor and nine-member municipal council, yet it retains its small-town charm and historic New England character. The population of Amesbury is 17,000. The city has a good school system, a vital arts community and cultural organizations. The city's downtown rejuvenation has been actively supported by the Alliance for Amesbury, an active civic group well-funded by local businesses.