Construction on a long-stalled, $13 million project that would make recreation along the San Joaquin River more accessible to cars and foot traffic is scheduled to begin later this year, Fresno officials said Tuesday. The river, a public space, is considered a potential economic driver for the Fresno area that could improve residents quality of life and draw more visitors. But many properties in the San Joaquin River Parkway, a collection of public green spaces planned to stretch from Friant Dam to Highway 99, remain either closed to the general public or difficult to access by vehicle or even on foot.

Other San Joaquin River news:

• The Business Journal (Fresno, Calif.): Federal investment to enhance San Joaquin River public access
• KMPH (Fresno, Calif.): Fresno Councilman Karbassi, Rep. Costa secure $2 million for San Joaquin River projects
• KSEE/KGPE (Fresno, Calif.): $2 million secured for San Joaquin River improvements