The nominated Urban River segment includes rural upstream and downstream segments. The city segment of the Urban River has been shaped by decades of urbanization followed by population declines. Junk yards and brownfields line the riverbank.
Water quality is poor due to failing septic systems and urban runoff.
An abandoned rail line separates the city center from the river. The city itself was settled 125 years ago. Subsequent westward settlement hinged on this city, and evidence of this part of America's heritage is reflected in original sections of town. Why the Urban River was designated an American Heritage River The Urban River and its sponsoring community were designated an American Heritage River because there were notable resource qualities, including historic buildings and open space. Just as important, the community had strategies to re-introduce both citizens and visitors to the river's legacy and its resources.