The first of four South Bend community forums on the parks system drew a lot of discussion about the city’s riverfront.

In fact, Parks Department Executive Director Aaron Perri told our reporting partners at ABC 57 that the St. Joseph River is “the blood that flows through this city.” He also called the community forum the “most significant reimagining” of the riverfront in a century, according to ABC 57.

Most residents attending the forum seemed to agree that more can be done along the riverfront.

The new ice rink at Howard Park was also a big topic, along with developing Seitz Park.

The department wants to gather input from the community on how to update the parks and trail system in South Bend. Dates and times for the remaining three public forums planned will be announced at a later date.