Although still in the initial planning stages, the project lacks several key pieces, namely the hundreds of millions of dollars needed for construction.

Last year, Brampton secured $262,500 from the provincial and federal governments toward an environmental assessment and strategic plan for the revitalization of Etobicoke Creek.

Beyond that, it is still unclear how city leaders plan to secure the bulk of the funding for such a crucial endeavour. The project cost has been estimated to be between $300 million and $500 million.

Jeffrey told councillors Wednesday that Hoboken, nearly swallowed by the Hudson River during Superstorm Sandy last year, “is a really good example of what we are trying to replicate” for Brampton with respect to flood mitigation and urban planning. Jeffrey said she got the idea to travel to New Jersey after speaking to an expert and panellist at a conference recently.

"We are exploring whether it would be possible to view the work done in Hoboken, New Jersey and see if there is anything we can learn from their experiences," Jeffrey told The Guardian.

Coun. Grant Gibson requested a written report from the mayor upon her return.

“Even if it’s just (in point form) on what went on,” Gibson said.

In a speech to business leaders earlier this year, Jeffrey listed Riverwalk as one of six important 'game-changers' for the city.

Securing a university and transforming the city into a health sciences hub are also on that list.