In an era of budget shortfalls and pinched city services, Houston must set priorities. With the first light-rail line completed and expansions approved by voters, redevelopment of Buffalo Bayou should be this city's next big thing.

In April, ground was broken on Sabine-to-Bagby Park. The $15 million project, funded from an array of public and private sources, is part of the master plan developed by the Buffalo Bayou Partnership. The initial aim is to provide continuous walks and trails on both sides of the historic bayou from Shepherd Drive almost to the Port of Houston.

At the groundbreaking, Mayor Bill White noted that the city was born on the banks of the bayou . He predicted that its rebirth will happen along the bayou . The experience of other cities that have cleaned and embraced once spurned waterways argues that the mayor is right.

The Metropolitan Transit Authority's rail line in the Main Street corridor is providing impetus for development up and down its north-south axis. Bayou redevelopment in a few years will provide miles of continuous trails linking parks and neighborhoods east and west of downtown, creating an amenity for all Houstonians and visitors.

Compared to the cost of freeways, sports stadiums and other municipal infrastructure and amenities, beautification of Buffalo Bayou appears to be a bargain.