In Pittsburgh, it was Murphy who almost single-handedly drove waterfront redevelopment. Other cities - Baltimore, Cleveland, etc. - found leaders. Who, if anyone, will meet the challenge when it comes to the Delaware River?

There are any number of possibilities. The Delaware River Basin Commission, for example, has great power, if it only wants to use it.

Or, individual counties could work with local town governments to formulate master plans.

But perhaps one upcoming event holds the most promise.

On Sept. 29, a governor's summit on the Delaware River is scheduled at the New Jersey State Aquarium. Gov. Whitman and the governors of New York, Pennsylvania and Delaware are supposed to attend the invitation-only event.

Four governors, one room. There's no reason a lot of things couldn't be accomplished, such as formation of a river developmental board.

Benefits of having such a group:

-- It would enjoy the monetary and political support - and, hence, clout - of four governors and four states. That's enough muscle to get things done.

-- All of the various local plans can be combined into one master project. That way the region can move forward with a unified purpose and vision.

-- The board can tap potential revenue sources for riverfront projects. Grants, loans and even private investment are possible. With the resources of four state governments behind such a coordinated and concerted effort, a lot is possible.

-- It can oversee the various local plans to ensure against duplication and assist when necessary. For example, if a township wants to determine if a new marina would be a hit or a bust, this four-state oversight group could provide money or staffing to conduct a study before the project begins.

-- The board also could play referee if necessary. Turf battles are bound to erupt. The board can determine how each of the projects best fits into the master plan.

-- The board can be a persistent, loud voice to keep attention focused on waterfront development.

In short, this board can be for South Jersey what Murphy is for Pittsburgh.

The $311 million dredging project - and likely future dredging projects - are a threat to a bright, exciting and profitable future for riverfront development. The potential environmental hazards must be addressed. River muck dumping sites must be located out of South Jersey, thereby keeping prime real estate and access to the river available.

There also must be a commitment from all of the agencies who want so desperately to dig up the river bottom that they will be equally supportive of riverfront development projects. And then there must be an entity to help lead those projects to completion.

The bright vision for riverfront development in South Jersey must not be a casualty of the dredging project.