1、City of Chicago Richard M.Daley,Mayor Department of Planning and DevelopmentChristopher R.Hill,Commissioner1999CH I C A G ORI V E RCO R R I D O RDE V E L O P M E N TPL A NFOREWORD1CHAPTERONE:INTRODUCTIONWhy a development plan for the Chicago River?2Chicago River Development Goals4Planning Process6CH2、APTERTWO:THEPLANReaches and Opportunity Sites:81.North Shore Channel10 Devon to Lawrence12 Bryn Mawr to Foster142.Upper North Branch:City Limits to Cicero163.Upper North Branch:Cicero to Lawrence18 Foster to Lawrence204.Middle North Branch:Lawrence to Diversey22 Neighborhood Overlook Prototype-124 N3、eighborhood Overlook Prototype-226 Neighborhood River Edge Improvements Prototype28 Horner Park30 Irving Park to Addison32 Addison to Belmont34 Industrial Area Overlook 36 Lathrop Riverwalk385.Lower North Branch:Diversey to Chicago40 Damen to Fullerton42 Fullerton Plaza44 Union Pacific Railroad Brid4、ge to Webster46 North Avenue Turning Basin486.Downtown Main Branch:Chicago to Congress50 Erie Street Terraces52 North Branch Boardwalk54 Riverwalk Gateway56 Rush Street Park Improvements58 300 South Wacker60 Wolf Point627.South Branch Riverwalk:Congress to Halsted648.South Branch:Halsted to Kedzie665、 South Branch Turning Basin68 Canalport Riverwalk 709.Sanitary&Ship Canal:California to City Limits72CHAPTERTHREE:IMPLEMENTATIONSTRATEGIESOverview&Setback ordinance74Design Guidelines76Capital Improvement Program78Environmental Recommendations79Public/Private River Development Corp.82ACKNOWLEDGEMENT6、S83 BIBLIOGRAPHY86Chicago River Corridor Development Plan C o n t e n t sChicago River Corridor Development Plan 1F o re w o rdIn 1997,the Department of Planning and Development of the City of Chicago assembled a team representing thegovernment,private sector developers,and non-profit organizations 7、to create a blueprint for the future of theChicago River.Their goal was to enhance the rivers attractiveness as a natural and recreational resource,whilerespecting the needs of residential and business developments.The Chicago River Corridor Development Plan and Design Guidelines are results of this8、 collaborative effort.Thisten-year action plan sets forth a shared vision for the river and outlines specific recommendations for achieving thatvision.Components of the plan include:DEVELOPMENTOPPORTUNITIESSpecific recommendations for improvements to public and private land that support the goals of9、 the plan.SETBACKORDINANCELocal legislation that provides for increased landscaped open space along the river.ENVIRONMENTALACTIONAGENDAStrategies for preserving and enhancing the rivers natural areas.DESIGNGUIDELINESCAPITALIMPROVEMENTPROGRAMThe authors of this document hope that all who know and lov10、e the Chicago River will join in the thoughtful and sustainabledevelopment of this precious resource.The Chicago River through downtown Chicago2Chicago River Corridor Development Plan Why a Development Plan for the Chicago River?Chapter One:Intro d u c t i o nThe Chicago River is one of the citys mo11、st treasured and accessible natural resources,flowingthrough residential neighborhoods and industrialareas alike.Formerly those same industrial areaswere sources of severe contamination of the riverand its banks.But over the last 25 years,local andfederal government agencies have invested morethan$412、 billion in pollution control and otherwater quality improvements.Both humanresidents and wildlife are returning to the river.More and more Chicagoans look to it as anattractive place to work,live,and play.This renewed interest in the river is resulting innew kinds of development.Residential andcomm13、ercial uses are replacing the more traditionalindustrial plants which once relied on the river for transportation of raw materials.Many of the remaining industrial uses are developing their waterfronts as amenities for their employees,withseating areas and green space.The City of Chicagocreated the 14、Chicago River Corridor DevelopmentPlan and Design Guidelines as a vision and set ofstandards for new development that will increasepublic access and create new recreationalopportunities for all the citys residents.HISTORYChicagos phenomenal growth into a major urbancenter is due,in large part,to its15、 strategic locationon the Chicago River and Lake Michigan.As earlyas the 1600s the river and the lake were majortrade routes.By the Citys incorporation in 1836,the river hadalready been established as a desirable location forindustrial development.The first meat packingplant adjacent to the river op16、ened in 1829 and thefirst lumber mill in 1833.These two industrieswere located just north of Wolf Point at theconfluence of the north and south branches of theChicago River.The completion of the Illinois and Michigan Canalin 1848 linked Lake Michigan with theMississippi River,dramatically increasing17、 rivertraffic.By the 1860s,the river had become thefocus of industrial development with an emphasison meat packing and lumber.In the citys early history the river was also used as a sewage outlet.Waste flowed east to LakeMichigan,the citys drinking water source,resulting in frequent outbreaks of wat18、er-bornediseases.In 1890,the Sanitary and Ship Canal wasbuilt both to protect the water supply and toprovide greater shipping capacity.Theconstruction of the Canal reversed the flow of theriver,sending pollution away from Lake Michiganand into the Mississippi River system.TheSanitary and Ship Canal 19、also became the mainmaterials transportation artery,replacing theobsolete Illinois and Michigan Canal which waseventually filled in.Chicagos industrial legacy will likely remain astrong feature of development along the ChicagoRiver,particularly along the South Branch and theSanitary and Ship Canal.H20、owever,public demandfor access and recreational amenities continues togrow,ensuring that future development willinclude a diverse mix of industrial,commercial,residential,and recreational uses.Fullerton Plaza overlook by the Chicago RiverChicago Riverwalk in Downtown ChicagoChapter One:Introduction321、Southeastward view of the Chicago River over Wolf Point around 1900Burnhams vision for the Chicago RiverChicago River Corridor Development Plan 4Chicago River Development Goals1.PATHS AND GREENWAYSCreate a connected greenway along the river,with continuous multi-use paths along at leastone side of t22、he river.This can be accomplished through improvements to existing public paths and the creation of new path segments through private property.Beyond the city limits,the river path can be linked to existing and proposed paths such as the Lincolnwood Trail and the Illinois and Michigan Canal Corridor23、.2.PUBLIC ACCESSIncrease public access to the river through thecreation of overlooks and public parks.Where feasible,private developments along the river should include opportunities for public access,such as pocket parks with seating areas.Streets that dead-end at the river can be developed as over24、looks for the adjacent community.Five key components frame the Chicago River Corridor Development Plan and Design Guidelines:Chapter One:Introduction53.HABITAT AND LANDSCAPINGRestore and protect landscaping and natural habitats along the river,particularly fish habitat.Given the rivers industrial hi25、story,little of its pre-settlement“natural”character remains.As redevelopment proceeds,care should be taken to create landscaped buffers and wetlands,both to soften harsh urban edges and to supportwildlife.4.RECREATIONDevelop the river as a recreational amenity,attracting tourists and enhancing Chic26、agosimage as a desirable place to live,work,andvisit.Recommended recreational amenities include canoe and motorized boat launches,fishing piers,hiking and biking trails,and historical markers.5.ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Encourage economic development compatiblewith the river as an environmental andrecrea27、tional amenity.Cafes,restaurants,and canoe rental concessions can be developed at many locations along the river.Existing industrial and commercial businesses should be encouraged to enhance their waterfronts and create landscaped seating and picnic areas for their employees.6Chicago River Corridor 28、Development Plan Planning Pro c e s sSTEERINGCOMMITTEEThe planning process was overseen by a SteeringCommittee whose members includedrepresentatives of government agencies,non-profitorganizations,and developers with interests in riverdevelopment and preservation.The Steering Committee formed two sub29、-committees to address areas they felt required special attention:THESETBACKSUBCOMMITTEEwas charged withdeveloping policies regarding a landscaped“no-build”zone at the top of the bank for the length ofthe river.They recommended a 30-foot setback berequired to allow increased public access to therive30、r through a continuous path and greenway.This recommendation was included as anamendment to the Citys existing PlannedDevelopment Ordinance,and was approved by theCity Council on April 21,1998.The complete textof the ordinance can be found in Chapter Three,page 71-72.THEENVIRONMENTALSUBCOMMITTEEdraf31、ted objectives and an action plan for habitat and landscape protection.The objectives included the creation and management of riveredge buffers,the development of a bank restoration program,the creation and preservation of riparian and aquatic habitats,water quality improvement,and improved public e32、ducation on river issues.Riveredge buffer recommendations have been incorporated into the Chicago River Corridor Design Guidelines.KEYPUBLICSECTORPARTNERSIndependently of the Steering Committees work,the Chicago Department of Planning andDevelopment(DPD)met with key agencies of localgovernment.These33、 agencies will be importantfinancial and management partners in theimplementation of the River Development Plan.CHICAGOPARKDISTRICT(CPD),a localgovernment body independent of the City,ownsand manages 551 parks covering 7,300 acres.It enacts and enforces ordinances,rules andregulations for the protec34、tion of public property,initiates cultural,educational,and recreational programs,expands park space and beautifies existing park property.METROPOLITANWATERRECLAMATIONDISTRICTOFGREATERCHICAGO(MWRD)owns land alongthe waterways and the outlying areas along the channels,and is responsible for the collec35、tion,treatment,and disposal of waste water,as well asfor the regulation of water levels.CHICAGODEPARTMENT OFTRANSPORTATION(CDOT)is the city government agency responsiblefor the design and construction of most ofChicagos roads,bridges and transit stations.CHICAGODEPARTMENT OF THEENVIRONMENT(CDOE)has 36、overall responsibility for advancingthe Citys environmental agenda to enhance thehealth of the urban ecosystem and all of itsinhabitants.The department is also responsible for monitoring flood plain development compliance.COOKCOUNTYFORESTPRESERVEDISTRICT(CCFPD)is responsible for the environmentalqua37、lity and recreational use of waterways within itsboundaries.The Districts mission is to protect andpreserve the flora,fauna,and scenic beauties ofCook County.The Chicago River Corridor Development Plan was organized around three linked spheres of activities:The Steering Committeeprovided overall pol38、icy direction.Key partners and constituentscontributed guidance on specific implementation strategies.A series of open housesheld over a six-week period provided opportunities for public comment.In addition to the key government agencies,DPDmet with representatives of Mayor Daleys BlueRibbon Fishing39、 Committee,who offeredcomments on proposed fishing pier locations andgeneral fishing and boating policies.PUBLICPARTICIPATIONThe Department of Planning and Developmentconducted a series of five open houses in river edgecommunities in March and April 1998.Theoverall plan for the river was presented a40、t each,along with detailed descriptions of proposedimprovements on adjacent reaches.For a complete list of all committee members,participants and consultants,and their affiliations,seeacknowledgements on pages 81-83.Chapter One:Introduction7Planning team members review river edge conditionsChicago R41、iver Corridor Development Plan 8Reaches and Development Opportunity SitesREACHES(from north to south)1.NORTHSHORECHANNEL:DEVONAVENUE TOLAWRENCEAVENUEThis man-made canal connects the North Branch of the Chicago River with the northern suburbs and Lake Michigan at Wilmette Harbor.Adjacent land is publ42、icly owned,and surrounding uses arelargely residential,with limited industrial andcommercial uses.2.UPPERNORTHBRANCH:CITYLIMITS TOCICEROAVENUEIn this section,the North Branch of the Chicago River runs through land entirely owned by the Forest Preserve District of Cook County.The banks and channel re43、main natural in character,and surrounding uses are recreational andresidential.3.UPPERNORTHBRANCH:CICEROAVENUE TOLAWRENCEAVENUEHere,the river retains its natural character as the surrounding uses change from public open space on the west to low-density residential on the east,where the river joins t44、he North ShoreChannel.4.MIDDLENORTHBRANCH:LAWRENCEAVENUE TODIVERSEYAVENUEThis section of the river is a zone of transition.North of Belmont,several large parks provide recreational access.South of Belmont,rapidly changing land uses are creating a mix of residential,commercial,and industrial developm45、ent with limited opportunities for publicaccess.5.LOWERNORTHBRANCH:DIVERSEYAVENUE TOCHICAGOAVENUEAlthough this reach is predominantly zoned for manufacturing and related uses,commercial uses have been making inroads at the riversedge.Public access to the waters edge is extremelylimited.6.DOWNTOWNMAI46、NBRANCH:CHICAGOAVENUE TOCONGRESSPARKWAYThe rivers main branch is a focal point for high-rise office,hotel and residential development.Prospects for increased public access are strong as public plazas and riverwalks are integrated into the designs for many developments.7.SOUTHBRANCHRIVERWALK:CONGRESS47、PARKWAY TOHALSTEDSTREETLike the Middle North Branch,this reach is a zone of transition,in this case,between the high-rise commercial and residential development north of Roosevelt Road and the traditional industrial uses to the south.Open space is limited in nearby residential areas.8.SOUTHBRANCH:HA48、LSTEDSTREET TOKEDZIEAVENUEThe South Branch runs through one of the citysmost robust industrial areas,including the Pilsen Model Industrial Corridor.Access to the watersedge is limited,but demand for open space is high due to the lack of parks and playgrounds in the surrounding residential communitie49、s.9.SANITARY&SHIPCANAL:CALIFORNIAAVENUE TO THECITYLIMITSIn contrast to the North Shore Channel,the publicly owned land along this reach is leased to commercial and industrial users,limiting public access.As elsewhere on the southernmost reaches,open space is limited in nearby residential areas.DEVEL50、OPMENTOPPORTUNITYSITESAcross the nine reaches of the river,the plan hasidentified 22 Opportunity Sites.For each of thesites,specific recommendations have been madefor developments that would meet one or more of the five goals of the plan.Chapter Two:TH EPL A NFor the purposes of the Chicago River Co51、rridor Development Plan,the river has been subdivided into nine reaches,contiguous stretches that share certain geographic characteristics.Many of the reaches also include DevelopmentOpportunity Sites that have specific characteristics that make them good locations for public open spaceinvestment.Ch52、apter Two:The Plan9City LimitsReachTwoReachOneReachThreeReachFourReachFiveReachSixReachSevenReachEightReachNineCity LimitsLake MichiganN o rth Shore Channel:Devon Avenue to Lawrence Av e n u eReach OneChicago River Corridor Development Plan 10GOALS:Upgrade and extend paths through publicly owned lan53、d.Improve under-and over-bridge path connections.Make high-traffic streets safer for pedestrians and cyclists to cross.Improve connections to the existing on-street bike path system.Improve connections to the suburban path system.CHARACTERISTICS:The Channel is navigable by canoe and motorboat for it54、s entire length,but has no navigation outlet to Lake Michigan at Wilmette Harbor,its northern terminus.It features seven miles of non-contiguous bike trail segments.All water-edge parcels are owned by the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District(MWRD)although some are currently leased toprivate users55、.Existing river edges appear“natural”and include habitat for migrating waterfowl such as the endangered Black Crowned Night Heron.The surrounding community is largely residential,with limited commercial and industrial uses.CONSTRAINTS:High traffic volume on cross streets makes access and crossing di56、fficult.Water-edge parcels are narrow,limiting their usefulness as recreational areas.Steep banks are hazardous and limit access.OPPORTUNITIES:The potential path can be connected to paved trails beyond the city limits in Skokie,Evanstonand Lincolnwood.Several MWRD leases will expire in the next 10 t57、o 20 years,allowing land to revert to publicuse.OPPORTUNITYSITES:Devon Avenue to Peterson Avenue Bryn Mawr Avenue to Foster AvenueChapter Two:The Plan -Reach One11Reach One:North Shore Channel-Devon Avenue to Lawrence AvenueHowardDevonTouhyPetersonBryn MawrFosterLawrenceExisting Green SpaceProposed 58、River Park DevelopmentProposed Development Opportunity SiteProposed River Edge LandscapingExisting Riverwalk PathProposed Riverwalk PathProposed Street End ParkProposed Canoe Access SiteExisting Pedestrian BridgeCity LimitChicago River Corridor Development Plan 12PATHS:Connect the path to the Lincol59、nwood multi-use trail north of Devon.Create an underbridge connection at Devon Avenue east of McCormick Boulevard.Create a path through the MWRD aeration facility south of Devon Avenue.Upgrade and widen the path adjacent to the Lincoln Village Shopping Center parking lot.Link the east and west banks60、 north of Lincoln Avenue with a pedestrian bridge at Hood Street or create a bike lane and widen the sidewalk on the north side of the Lincoln Avenue bridge.Build underbridge connections at Lincoln and Peterson on the east bank.RIVERACCESS:Build an overlook with a sitting area at the MWRD aeration f61、acility south of Devon.Create a canoe launch adjacent to the Lincoln Village Shopping Center parking lot.Provide adequate lighting along the entire path.RECREATION:Create a continuous bike path that allows cyclists to avoid crossing busy streets by using underbridge connections.Connect the west bank62、 bike path with the neighboring community to the east with a pedestrian bridge at Hood Street.Devon to PetersonDevon Avenue forms the border between Chicago and the village of Lincolnwood to the north.The MWRD-owned land along both banks of the North Shore Channel south to Peterson Avenue is popular63、 with cyclistsand anglers.This plan calls for completing the existing multi-use path,and linking it both to the northernsuburbs and the residential community to the east.Cyclists and pedestrians will be able to use underbridgeconnections to avoid crossing high-traffic streets,while improved path lig64、hting will heighten visitor security.New recreational destination points include an overlook and a canoe launch.Vi ew of Pe t e rson BridgePROPOSEDIMPROVEMENTSChapter Two:The Plan -Reach One13Proposed Multi-Use TrailExisting Multi-Use TrailNorth Shore Channel:Devon to PetersonPATHS:Improve the exist65、ing path on the east bank.Create a safe street crossing between the north and south sections of Legion Park at Bryn Mawr.Create a water-edge nature trail on the east bankthrough Legion Park.Create an underbridge connection on the west bank at Bryn Mawr.Create an on-street connection between the path66、north of Foster and the Albany Street pedestrianbridge.Create an underbridge connection on the east bank at Foster Avenue.Improve the midblock crosswalk at FosterAvenue.Create a new pedestrian path on the west bank adjacent to the Marine Corps and North Park University property south to the Waterfal67、l.RIVERACCESS:Create a water-edge nature trail on the east bankthrough Legion Park.Connect the existing multi-use path to the adjacent neighborhood at Legion Park.HABITAT&LANDSCAPING:Regrade as necessary to control erosion.Remove debris and invasive plant species.Replant with native plant species.Sc68、reen parking area with street trees.RECREATION:Clear areas for bank fishing along the east bank nature trail.Create a continuous bike path that allowscyclists to avoid crossing busy streets by using underbridge connections.Incorporate recreation fields and open space at the Region One High School si69、te on the west bank.As elsewhere along the North Shore Channel,this section is flanked by publicly owned land.Legion Parkruns the length of the east bank.On the west,plans for a new 14-acre Region One High School campusinclude open space at the waters edge,providing a major link in the riverwalk.Thi70、s plan proposesimprovements to the existing multi-use trail and a new nature trail through Legion Park.Cyclists andpedestrians will be able to use underbridge connections to avoid crossing high-traffic streets.PROPOSEDIMPROVEMENTSChicago River Corridor Development Plan 14B ryn Mawr to FosterExisting71、 conditions under Bryn Mawr BridgeProposed Multi-Use TrailExisting Multi-Use TrailNorth Shore Channel:Bryn Mawr to FosterChapter Two:The Plan -Reach One15Upper North Branch:City Limits to Cicero Av e n u eReach Tw oGOALS:Upgrade and extend paths through publicly owned land.Improve under-and over-bri72、dge path connections.Make high-traffic streets safer for pedestrians and cyclists to cross,particularly at CiceroAvenue.Create safe grade crossings at rail lines.Improve connections to the existing on-street bike path system.Connect the existing trail to the North Branch Bicycle Trail.Improve access73、 to the river for boaters and canoers.CHARACTERISTICS:This reach runs through Cook County Forest Preserve District land.Banks and channel remain natural in character.The river is accessible by boat and canoe most of the year.CONSTRAINTS:Golf courses and floodplains limit routes for paths adjacent to74、 the river.Bank vegetation is often washed away by stormwater runoff and high water.A Forest Preserve District landscape restoration moratorium is in effect,limiting development and tree relocation.OPPORTUNITIES:Trail segments exist through the forest preserves.Numerous ecological restoration sites 75、include the seven North Branch Prairie project sites.Adjacent recreational opportunities include golfcourses,swimming pools and toboggan slides.Chicago River Corridor Development Plan 16Chapter Two:The Plan -Reach Two17Reach Two:Upper North Branch-City Limits to Cicero AvenueLawrenceBryn MawrPeterso76、nDevonExisting Green SpaceProposed River Park DevelopmentProposed Development Opportunity SiteProposed River Edge LandscapingExisting Riverwalk PathProposed Riverwalk PathProposed Street End ParkProposed Canoe Access SiteExisting Pedestrian BridgeCity LimitsUpper North Branch:Cicero Avenue to Lawren77、ce AvenueReach Thre eGOALS:Upgrade and extend paths through publicly owned land.Improve under-and over-bridge path connections.Make high-traffic streets safer for pedestrians and cyclists to cross.Improve connections to the existing on-street bike path system.Increase access to the river for canoers78、.CHARACTERISTICS:Much of the river is bordered by open space,including forest preserves and parks.Residential neighborhoods adjoin the river at several points.Banks and channel remain natural in character.The river is accessible by boat and canoe most of the year.CONSTRAINTS:The river is fenced off 79、through most Chicago Park District parks.Bank vegetation is often washed away by stormwater runoff and high water.OPPORTUNITIES:Trail segments exist through parks and forest preserves.Most river-edge land is publicly owned.State funding and concept are in place for development of a path between Rona80、n Park andEugene Field Park.OPPORTUNITYSITE:FOSTER TOLAWRENCEChicago River Corridor Development Plan 18Chapter Two:The Plan -Reach Three19Reach Three:Upper North Branch-Cicero Avenue to Lawrence AvenueExisting Green SpaceProposed River Park DevelopmentProposed Development Opportunity SiteProposed Ri81、ver Edge LandscapingExisting Riverwalk PathProposed Riverwalk PathProposed Street End ParkProposed Canoe Access SiteExisting Pedestrian BridgeDevonPetersonBryn MawrFosterLawrenceChicago River Corridor Development Plan 20PATHS:Link the multi-use path on the east bank with an underbridge connection an82、d/or an improved street crossing at Foster Avenue.Extend the North Branch multi-use trail west with a connection at Carmen Street.Realign the path through West River Park.Complete the path through Ronan Park.Extend the path south from East River Park through the MWRD property to Lawrence Avenue.RIVE83、RACCESS:Create overlooks with terraces to the watersedge on either side of the waterfall.Build a ramp from Argyle Street to a new canoe launch in West River Park.Build a ramp from Albany Street to a new canoelaunch on the upper North Branch.Continue water-edge portage path between the canoe launches84、.HABITAT&LANDSCAPING:Improve aquatic habitat with plants,underwater structures and a sheltered bank.RECREATION:Build a ramp from Argyle Street to the canoe launch in West River Park.Build a ramp from Albany Street to the canoe launch on the upper North Branch.Continue the water-edge portage path bet85、ween canoe launches.Improve access and opportunities for fishing.Improve access and opportunities for sitting at the waters edge.Rebuild the waterfall and create a safe run for small craft over structure.Create a pull-over and drop-off point for canoes at Argyle and Albany streets.Foster to Lawre n 86、c eThe North Shore Channel and the North Branch of the Chicago River come together at the Waterfall,whichwas built early in this century by the Metropolitan Sanitary District.It is popular with anglers;canoeistscurrently use an informal launch at Albany Street.The plan proposes enhancing these uses 87、and increasingaccess to the waters edge.Riveredge land is owned by the MWRD or the Chicago Park District.Land northof the North Branch and west of the North Shore Channel is leased by North Park University for use as anathletic field.PROPOSEDIMPROVEMENTSVi ew of the Wat e r fall from West River Pa r88、kProposed Multi-Use TrailExisting Multi-Use TrailUpper North Branch:Foster to LawrenceChapter Two:The Plan -Reach Three21Middle North Branch:Lawrence Avenue to Damen AvenueChicago River Corridor Development Plan 22Reach FourGOALS:Upgrade and extend paths through publicly owned land.Increase public a89、ccess to the river.Create additional recreational areas.Create greenway through business areas and residential neighborhoods.Complete the greenway on setbacks on privatelyowned land.CHARACTERISTICS:Rapidly changing land uses are creating a mix of residential,commercial and industrial development.Lan90、d values are increasing as up-scale housing and commercial development occur.CONSTRAINTS:The river is fenced off through most Chicago Park District parks.High land values impede acquisition for public purposes.Banks are often used as extensions of existing back yards,with boat docks and other struct91、ures common.OPPORTUNITIES:Many streets dead-end at the waters edge,creating opportunities for overlooks and access.River access can be included in project plans as new development occurs.Horner,California and Clark parks provide excellent access.A City-owned ward yard on the west bank south of Belmo92、nt provides a high visibility bank stabilization and green-up opportunity.OPPORTUNITYSITES:NEIGHBORHOODOVERLOOKPROTOTYPES NEIGHBORHOODRIVEREDGEIMPROVEMENTSPROTOTYPE HORNERPARK IRVING TOADDISON ADDISON TOBELMONT INDUSTRIALAREAOVERLOOK LATHROPRIVERWALKChapter Two:The Plan -Reach Four23Reach Four:Middl93、e North Branch-Lawrence Avenue to Damen AvenueExisting Green SpaceProposed River Park DevelopmentProposed Development Opportunity SiteProposed River Edge LandscapingExisting Riverwalk PathProposed Riverwalk PathProposed Street End ParkProposed Canoe Access SiteExisting Pedestrian BridgeIrving ParkBe94、lmontFullertonLawrencePATHS:Connect the overlook to the existing neighborhood sidewalk system.RIVERACCESS:Build a railed overlook with seating,lighting and decorative paving at the top of the bank.Improve access to the waters edge with an accessible ramp with an intermediate landing.Build a paved lo95、wer seating area at the watersedge.HABITAT&LANDSCAPING:Substitute landscaping for usual hard barriers atthe street end.Regrade as necessary to control erosion.Remove debris and invasive plant species.Replant with native species.RECREATION:Provide access for anglers at the lower seating area.Provide 96、a boat tie-up at the waters edge.N e i g h b o rhood Overlook:P rototype 1Many residential streets dead-end at the North Branch of the Chicago River.These dead ends are goodlocations for small open spaces that serve the neighboring community.This design and the one that followsare proposed for a typ97、ical street end in Ravenswood Manor,where the public right-of way meets the river at anangle.The first design envisions an overlook and ramp access to the waters edge.PROPOSEDIMPROVEMENTSChicago River Corridor Development Plan 24Chapter Two:The Plan -Reach Four25Middle North Branch:Neighborhood Over98、look Prototype-1PATHS:Connect the overlook to the existing neighborhood sidewalk system.RIVERACCESS:Build a railed overlook with seating,lighting and decorative paving at the top of the bank.HABITAT&LANDSCAPING:Regrade as necessary to control erosion.Remove debris and invasive plant species.Replant 99、with native species.RECREATION:Build an overlook with seating at the top of the bank and views of the river.N e i g h b o rhood Overlook:P rototype 2This alternative design for an angled residential street end limits access to the top of the bank.The paved andlighted overlook includes seating and en100、hanced landscaping.PROPOSEDIMPROVEMENTSChicago River Corridor Development Plan 26Middle North Branch:Neighborhood Overlook Prototype-2Chapter Two:The Plan -Reach Four27R iverbank re s t o ration on Berteau Stre e tPATHS:Build a wood chip path at the waters edge.RIVERACCESS:Soften the approach to the101、 site by replacing the cul-de-sac with landscaped open space.Build a gradually sloping ramp from the parking area to the waters edge.Improve the existing floating dock.HABITAT&LANDSCAPING:Regrade as necessary to control erosion.Remove debris and invasive plant species.Replant with native species.Scr102、een parking area with street trees.RECREATION:Provide opportunities for bank fishing,wildlife viewing and river access.N e i g h b o rhood River EdgeI m p ro v e m e n t sThis NeighborSpace site,across the river from Horner Park,is an outstanding example of community-supported open space.The site wa103、s developed through a partnership between local residents,the City ofChicago,Friends of the Chicago River,the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District,and the Chicago Park District.Steps lead to a small boat dock,and wood-chip paths meander between shaded overlooks andfishing sites.Existing street li104、ghting enhances site security like the designs for street-end parks at Ravenswood Manor and Roscoe Street,this is designed as a neighborhood,rather than a regional,destination.The recommended improvements can be adapted to other residential streets that dead-end at the river.PROPOSEDIMPROVEMENTSChic105、ago River Corridor Development Plan 28Middle North Branch:Neighborhood River Edge ImprovementsChapter Two:The Plan -Reach Four29Chicago River Corridor Development Plan 30H o rner ParkH o rner Pa rkPATHS:Create a new riveredge path to connect to the parks existing multi-use trail.RIVERACCESS:Remove t106、he existing cyclone fence.Regrade the riverbank to a more gradual slope.Provide riveredge seating.HABITAT&LANDSCAPING:Plant shrubs,groundcover,and perennial plants on regraded slope to control erosion.Replant banks with native species.Create new wetlands with in-water plantings.RECREATION:Provide wa107、ter-edge access for anglers.At 58 acres,Horner Park is the largest in the Chicago Park Districts North Region.The park stretches fromMontrose Avenue on the north to Irving Park Road on the south,with the Chicago River forming its easternboundary.Although the park is extensively used,public access to108、 the river currently is cut off by a cyclonefence.PROPOSEDIMPROVEMENTSMiddle North Branch:Irving Park to AddisonChapter Two:The Plan -Reach Four31Proposed Multi-Use TrailExisting Multi-Use TrailChicago River Corridor Development Plan 32PATHS:Create an underbridge connection on the west bank at Irvin109、g Park Road.Create a new path east of California Park behindthe Bush,Boake and Allen facility.Improve the sidewalk on the east side of California Avenue adjacent to Gordon TechnicalHigh School.Improve the street crossing on the east side of California at Addison.Improve the sidewalk on the south sid110、e of Addison to the connection with Clark Park at Rockwell Street.RIVERACCESS:Create a canoe launch and drop-off at the McFetridge Sports Center parking lot.HABITAT&LANDSCAPING:Landscape the bank behind the Bush,Boake andAllen facility.Regrade as necessary to control erosion.Remove debris and invasi111、ve plant species Replant with native species.RECREATION:Create an underbridge link to Horner Park.Provide an area for bank fishing at the canoe launch site.ECONOMICDEVELOPMENT:Explore the development of a canoe rental facility and bait shop behind the McFetridge Sports Center.I rving Park to Addison112、This four-block stretch links Horner Park on the northwest with Clark Park on the southeast.The existingpath through Horner Park can be connected under Irving Park Road to a new river-edge path east of Bush,Boake and Allen,and existing segments at California Park and the McFetridge Sports Arena.Just113、 north ofAddison,the Gordon Technical High School campus has been developed to the top of the bank;the pathcontinues south on city sidewalks.A canoe launch with an adjacent drop-off area is planned just south of theMcFetridge Sports Arena and is a potential location for a canoe rental facility and b114、ait shop.Existing trail at McFe t r i d ge Sports A re n aPROPOSEDIMPROVEMENTSMiddle North Branch:Irving Park to AddisonChapter Two:The Plan -Reach Four33Proposed Multi-Use TrailExisting Multi-Use TrailChicago River Corridor Development Plan 34PATHS:Create a riveredge path through the residential de115、velopment site on the west bank north of Belmont to Roscoe.Build a pedestrian bridge at Roscoe to connectto the path through Clark Park.Use the existing pedestrian ramp north from Belmont Avenue on the east bank.Incorporate widened sidewalk paths on the Belmont Avenue bridge in bridge improvement pl116、ans.RIVERACCESS:Create a boat and canoe drop-off and launch in Clark Park.Improve the existing west bank Roscoe street end as shown in overlook designs.Develop a riverwalk with decorative railing at the new Boathouse Townhomes development.HABITAT&LANDSCAPING:Landscape the bank at the Commonwealth Ed117、ison property south of Addison.Preserve and restore the woods at Clark Park.Landscape the river edge along industrial sites.Regrade as necessary to control erosion.Remove debris and invasive plant species.Replant with native species.RECREATION:Extend Clark Park south into the southernportion of the 118、UPS site.Create a boat and canoe drop-off and launch in Clark Park.Install historic markers commemorating the former Riverview Amusement Park.Addison to BelmontClark Park runs the length of the east bank of this site.On the west bank,a Commonwealth Edison facilityand an industrial user impede public119、 access to the river between Addison and Roscoe.South of Roscoe,the conversion of a former boat yard to the Burnsides Riverfront Communities residential development willinclude a public path at the waters edge.Additional proposed path improvements include upgraded andlighted sidewalks through Clark 120、Park,a pedestrian bridge at Roscoe,and an underbridge connection atBelmont on the east bank.A canoe launch with a drop-off is planned for Clark Park,and a pocket park justnorth of the residential site.A prototype industrial street-end improvement for Roscoe Street is detailed in thepreceding design.121、A wooded area at the southern end of Clark Park includes fragments of building foundationsfrom the historic Riverview Amusement Park.Wi l d l i fe in Clark Pa rkPROPOSEDIMPROVEMENTSMiddle North Branch:Addison to BelmontChapter Two:The Plan -Reach Four35Proposed Multi-Use TrailExisting Multi-Use Trai122、lPATHS:Connect with the multi-use path through the residential site to the south.Connect the overlook with the existing sidewalksystem.RIVERACCESS:Build an overlook with seating at the top of the bank and visual access to the river.Increase the sense of security with adequate lighting.HABITAT&LANDSC123、APING:Substitute landscaping for usual hard barriers.Stabilize the bank with vegetation or,wherenecessary,concrete structures.RECREATION:Provide a recreational amenity for adjacent businesses.Separate industrial traffic from recreational visitors with a landscaped barrier.Link to Clark Park with a n124、ew pedestrian bridge.Industrial Area OverlookLike the residential street-end parks,the Roscoe Street dead-end on the west bank is proposed as open spacefor local users,in this case,workers from adjacent businesses.As a lunch spot or a quiet overlook onto the naturalized bank,the site would include b125、enches,decorative railings,and lighting to enhance security.Thisbasic design can be adapted for industrial street ends elsewhere on the river,including Goose Island andPilsen.The Roscoe Street design can be built as it appears here,or with a pedestrian bridge connecting it toClark Park,as shown in t126、he next design.PROPOSEDIMPROVEMENTSChicago River Corridor Development Plan 36Chapter Two:The Plan -Reach Four37Middle North Branch:Industrial Area OverlookProposed Multi-Use TrailExisting Multi-Use TrailChicago River Corridor Development Plan 38PATHS:Widen the sidewalk on Leavitt Street north of Div127、ersey Parkway to connect to the on-street system at Oakdale Street.Create a wood-chip nature trail along the riversedge from the neighborhood open space at the north end of Lathrop Homes west of Leavitt Street to Diversey Parkway.Build an underbridge connection at Diversey Parkway on the east bank.W128、iden the sidewalk on Leavitt Street south of Diversey Parkway.Reconfigure Leavitt Street south of Diversey Parkway to one-way northbound with an entrance from Hoyne Avenue.Build an underbridge connection at Damen Avenue on the east bank.RIVERACCESS:Build a floating boardwalk through the wetlands.Bui129、ld a canoe launch at the north end of the wetlands boardwalk.Create a wood-chip nature trail along the riversedge from the neighborhood open space at the north end of Lathrop Homes west of Leavitt Street to Diversey Parkway.HABITAT&LANDSCAPING:Create wetlands in shallow areas on the east side of the130、 Turning Basin south of Diversey Parkway.Create a wood-chip nature trail along the riversedge from Leavitt Street to Diversey Parkway.Regrade as necessary to control erosion.Remove debris and invasive plant species.Replant with native species.RECREATION:Create a landscaped neighborhood open space wi131、th seating area at the north end of the Lathrop Homes west of Leavitt.Create a boat and canoe launch south of Diversey Parkway on the east bank.ECONOMICDEVELOPMENT:Explore food and other concessions that could be operated by community residents.L a t h rop Riverw a l kThe residents of this Chicago H132、ousing Authority development have undertaken a multi-year plan to improveand expand the open space in their community.They envision a major recreational destination point,withseating areas,a river edge nature trail,a canoe launch and a new wetlands development.The project hasreceived funding from th133、e federal Urban Resources Partnership,the Richard H.Driehaus Foundation,and theField Foundation.Existing site of P roposed Lat h rop Pro m e n a d ePROPOSEDIMPROVEMENTSMiddle North Branch:Lathrop RiverwalkProposed Multi-Use TrailExisting Multi-Use TrailChapter Two:The Plan -Reach Four39Lower North B134、ranch:Damen Avenue to Chicago AvenueReach FiveGOALS:Increase public access to the river.Create additional recreational areas.Create a greenway through business areas and residential neighborhoods.Complete the greenway on setbacks on privatelyowned land.CHARACTERISTICS:This reach is predominantly zon135、ed for manufacturing and related uses,although commercial uses have made inroads at the rivers edge.Due to the heavy industrial nature of this section,there are no pedestrian paths adjacent to the waterway.At a depth of ten feet,the manmade North Branch Canal is navigable by standard nine-footbarges136、.The river between the main branch and the North Avenue Turning Basin is designated as a Federal Navigable Waterway.Goose Island is a 146-acre island formed by the North Branch Canal and the North Branch of the Chicago River.Land values are increasing as up-scale housing and commercial development o137、ccur.CONSTRAINTS:Barge traffic and industrial uses limit the potential for water-edge development and cantilevered dock construction.Businesses frequently have built to the riversedge.Pedestrian and automobile access to the river is poor.Steep banks are hazardous and limit access.Soil and groundwate138、r tend to be heavily contaminated.High land values impede acquisition for public purposes.OPPORTUNITIES:River access can be included in project plans as new development occurs.Private developers are interested in building boating facilities.OPPORTUNITYSITES:DAMEN TOFULLERTON FULLERTONPLAZA UNIONPACI139、FICRAILROADBRIDGE TOWEBSTER NORTHAVENUETURNINGBASINChicago River Corridor Development Plan 40Chapter Two:The Plan -Reach Five41Reach Five:Lower North Branch-Damen Avenue to Chicago AvenueExisting Green SpaceProposed River Park DevelopmentProposed Development Opportunity SiteProposed River Edge Lands140、capingExisting Riverwalk PathProposed Riverwalk PathProposed Street End ParkProposed Canoe Access SiteProposed Pedestrian BridgeBelmontFullertonNorthChicagoChicago River Corridor Development Plan 42PATHS:Link to the Lathrop Homes to the north with anunderbridge connection at Damen Avenue.Connect to 141、the south with the proposed multi-use path behind the Dominicks Food Store at 2550 N.Clybourn Avenue.Link with the existing path to the south behindthe Marshalls store to Fullerton Avenue.Link to the Fullerton Plaza site south of Fullerton with an underbridge connection at Fullerton.HABITAT&LANDSCAP142、ING:Green the top of the bank with low-lying landscape plants.Provide a landscaped buffer between the multi-use trail and industrial/commercial uses.RECREATION:Create a pocket park at the former Cotter site with seating,river views,landscaping and lighting.Damen to Fullert o nThis 16.25-acre potenti143、al redevelopment site,the former home of Cotter and Company,will leave an ample setback for a water-edge path.Vertical bulkheads limit landscaping to a portion of sloped bank behind theMarshalls store just north of Fullerton.R ive r walk behind Rive rpoint Shopping CenterPROPOSEDIMPROVEMENTSLower No144、rth Branch:Damen to FullertonProposed Multi-Use TrailExisting Multi-Use TrailChapter Two:The Plan -Reach Five43Chicago River Corridor Development Plan 44PATHS:Link to the north with an underbridge connection at Fullerton.Build a continuous path at rivers edge between Fullerton and the Union Pacific 145、Railroad(UPRR)tracks.Link to the south with an underbridge connection at the UPRR tracks.RIVERACCESS:Create three paved seating areas with benches.Provide parking in the adjacent shopping centerlot.Enhance security with building-mounted lighting.HABITAT&LANDSCAPING:Screen the path from the parking l146、ot with ornamental and shade trees.Regrade as necessary to control erosion.Remove debris and invasive plant species.Replant with native species.RECREATION:Build a multi-use path for strollers,runners andcyclists.F u l l e rton PlazaThis site is an excellent example of what can be accomplished when t147、he public and private sectors work together.This shopping center was built on the former site of an asphalt plant.Its developer worked closelywith the citys Department of Planning and Development to ensure a design that would make the most of itsriver location.With over 2,000 linear feet of river fr148、ontage,this design features a 30-foot setback from the topof the bank,with a multi-use path,landscaping and seating areas.The site will serve as an important link inthe riveredge path system as well as a recreational amenity for shopping center visitors and employees.F u l l e rton Plaza rive re d g149、e seating are aPROPOSEDIMPROVEMENTSLower North Branch:Fullerton PlazaProposed Multi-Use TrailExisting Multi-Use TrailChapter Two:The Plan -Reach Five45Chicago River Corridor Development Plan 46PATHS:Link Fullerton Plaza to the north with a connection under the Union Pacific Railroad bridge.Build a c150、antilevered walkway along the seawall fronting the City of Chicago Materials Recycling Facility(MRF).Create a connection under the Ashland Avenue bridge.Provide a 30-foot setback from the top of the east bank between Ashland and Webster.RIVERACCESS:Create a Riverwalk Gateway plaza at Webster and Dom151、inick.Habitat&Landscaping:Screen the path with a landscaped buffer at the Materials Recycling Facility(MRF)and the adjacent tire recycling facility.RECREATION:When the tire recycling facility north of Webster Avenue is redeveloped,expand the existing setback to 30 feet.Provide a transition between t152、he on-street and riveredge paths with a Riverwalk Gateway at Webster Avenue.Union Pacific Railroad Bridgeto We b s t e rThis plan envisions a band of green space through an area of mixed industrial and commercial development.It calls for continuing the multi-use path south from the Fullerton Plaza s153、ite to Webster Avenue.Acantilevered walkway along the City of Chicago Materials Recycling Facility west of Ashland Avenue providesa key link.As the site on the east bank north of Webster Avenue is redeveloped,the plan could be expanded toinclude a“Riverwalk Gateway”at Webster Avenue and Dominick Str154、eet to mark the transition between theon-street and river edge paths.M aterials Re cycling Facility along the rive rPROPOSEDIMPROVEMENTSChapter Two:The Plan -Reach Five47Lower North Branch:Union Pacific Railroad to WebsterProposed Multi-Use TrailExisting Multi-Use TrailChicago River Corridor Develop155、ment Plan 48PATHS:Create an“urban promenade”along the north and west banks of the Turning Basin.Close Magnolia Street south of North Avenue to provide for greater riverfront enhancements and support larger development opportunities.Widen the sidewalks on the reconstructed North Avenue bridge.RIVERAC156、CESS:Install ornamental railings and lighting to define the Basin.Build overlooks along the south side of North Avenue adjacent to the Turning Basin.Connect the promenade to the northwest bank of the Turning Basin with a stair tower.HABITAT&LANDSCAPING:Landscape the river edge north of Blackhawk Str157、eet.Plant shade and ornamental trees around the edge of the Turning Basin.RECREATION:Develop boat storage,marina,launch and canoe facilities in the North Avenue Turning BasinN o rth Avenue Tu rning BasinThe North Avenue Turning Basin is at the heart of a thriving manufacturing district.The North Bra158、nch Canal connects with the site at the northern tip of Goose Island.Expanding residential development to the east andwest have increased the demand for recreational access to the site.This design seeks to balance recreationalneeds with those of the adjacent manufacturers,many of whom use river barg159、es to transport their raw materials.Improvements would include landscaped edges on all sides of the basin and bridge improvements.In addition,a planning process has been undertaken to identify other opportunities for creating paths,riveraccess,and landscape improvements,while fostering economic deve160、lopment initiatives in the vicinity surrounding the North Avenue Turning BasinThe Tu rning Basin and the North Ave nue BridgePROPOSEDIMPROVEMENTSChapter Two:The Plan -Reach Five49Middle North Branch:Damen to FullertonProposed Multi-Use TrailExisting Multi-Use TrailDowntown Main Branch:Chicago Avenue161、 to Congress ParkwayReach SixGOALS:Increase public access to the river.Create additional recreational areas.Create greenway through business areas and residential neighborhoods.Work with the private sector to complete streamway on setbacks.CHARACTERISTICS:The rivers main branch is a focal point for 162、high-rise commercial office,hotel and residential development.The lock at the mouth of the river provides access to Lake Michigan.The reach features many cultural and historic sites.Navy Pier provides a waterfront park and festival space.A new half mile,multi-use path connects the lakefront bike pat163、h to Michigan Avenue.A nine-hole golf course is located just south of South Bank park.River Esplanade Park runs along the north bankfrom Lake Shore Drive to Columbus Drive and includes the MWRD Centennial Fountain.Excursion boat companies offer tours of the river and lake.Twenty different gamefish s164、pecies can be caughthere.CONSTRAINTS:The rivers edge is mostly a vertical wall of concrete and steel sheet piling.Most of the river-edge parcels are privately held.Businesses frequently have built to the riversedge.High land values impede acquisition for public purposes.OPPORTUNITIES:The Wacker Driv165、e Reconstruction Project will create new river edge parks and plazas on the south and east banks between Cityfront Center and Congress Parkway.The South Branch Riverwalk will link downtown to Chinatown Park.Public plazas and riverwalks are integrated into the designs for many developments.North Pier166、 and Wolf Point are used as access points for paddle boats.South Bank Park at Illinois Center provides a dock-level walkway and landscaping,a street-level walkway,and good bank fishing.OPPORTUNITYSITES:ERIESTREETTERRACES NORTHBRANCHBOARDWALK RUSHSTREETIMPROVEMENTS WACKERDRIVERECONSTRUCTION RIVERWALK167、GATEWAY SOUTHWACKERPARKChicago River Corridor Development Plan 50Chapter Two:The Plan -Reach Six51Reach Six:Downtown Main Branch-Chicago Avenue to Congress ParkwayExisting Green SpaceProposed River Park DevelopmentProposed Development Opportunity SiteProposed River Edge LandscapingExisting Riverwalk168、 PathProposed Riverwalk PathProposed Street End ParkProposed Canoe Access SiteProposed Pedestrian BridgeChicagoLakeCongress ParkwayRooseveltChicago River Corridor Development Plan 52PATHS:Connect at the waters edge to the riverwalk andthe Montgomery Ward Park to the north.Connect to the on-street sy169、stem at the upper terraces.RIVERACCESS:Create a circular drop-off with special paving and a fountain on the upper terrace.Create a lighted and paved seating area on the upper and lower terraces.Connect the dock-level terrace to a riverwalk path to the south.HABITAT&LANDSCAPING:Plant ornamental and s170、hade trees on the upper and lower terraces.Landscape the natural bank to the north and south.RECREATION:Provide an area for bank fishing on the lower terrace.Link to the downtown riverwalk system.Erie Street Te rr a c e sThis site,at the foot of Erie and Larabee streets,is planned as upper and lower171、 terraces connected by a staircase.A cul-de-sac with paving and a fountain will define the entrance to the upper terrace and improvevehicular circulation.Site conditionsPROPOSEDIMPROVEMENTSChapter Two:The Plan -Reach Six53Erie Street TerracesChicago River Corridor Development Plan 54PATHS:Create und172、erbridge connections below Ohio andOntario streets to the Erie Street Terraces to the north.To the south,connect with the existing path fronting the East Bank Club.RIVERACCESS:Enhance security with railings and adequate lighting.RECREATION:Provide areas for fishing.N o rth Branch Board w a l kThis f173、loating walkway would stretch from the south side of Grand Avenue to the north side of Ontario Street providing a link in the riverwalk system through an area where development precludes a path on land.The structure would lie 12 to 14 feet from the existing bulkhead.Site ConditionsPROPOSEDIMPROVEMEN174、TSNorth Branch BoardwalkChapter Two:The Plan -Reach Six55Chicago River Corridor Development Plan 56RECREATION:Create a link between the Downtown Riverwalkand the lakefront bike path.R i v e rwalk GatewayThe Riverwalk Gateway is proposed as welcoming connection between lakefront attractions and the d175、owntownriverwalk.It will be an important addition to the roster of improvements to the mouth of the river.MonroeStreet Harbor and the Turning Basin will be reconfigured,the Coast Guard Station will be rehabilitated,andthe new DuSable Park built,all within the next few years.Construction of the gatew176、ay will involve claddingof the existing Lake Shore Drive bridge structure.Existing connection under Lake Shore DrivePROPOSEDIMPROVEMENTSRiverwalk GatewayChapter Two:The Plan -Reach Six57Chicago River Corridor Development Plan 58RIVERACCESS:Improve mooring facilities for excursion boats.Create a pave177、d,lighted seating area.HABITAT&LANDSCAPING:Plant shade and ornamental trees and low-lying shrubbery in the seating area.ECONOMICDEVELOPMENT:Explore the development of food concessions.Rush Street Park Impro v e m e n t sThis site,within the Rush Street right-of-way,is likely to be affected when the 178、adjacent Sun-Times building is redeveloped.The proposed plan calls for inexpensive,short-term improvements that can enhance the sitesattractiveness to visitors from nearby office buildings.The Wendella Sightseeing Boats currently use the site as a part-time dock.Site conditions PROPOSEDIMPROVEMENTSR179、ush Street Park ImprovementsChapter Two:The Plan -Reach Six59Chicago River Corridor Development Plan 60RIVERACCESS:Provide curved terraced seating with adequate lighting.Build a staircase to the dock-level esplanade.Create a river taxi dock.HABITAT&LANDSCAPING:Plant ornamental and shade trees on the180、 upper level.Plant shrubs and vines along lower-level retaining walls and terraced planters.RECREATION:Create amphitheater suitable for musical and theatrical performances.Create an attractive area for passive recreational uses.ECONOMICDEVELOPMENT:Program food concessions on the upper level.Program 181、lunch-time and evening performances in the amphitheater.300 South Wa c k e rThree distinct activity areas are planned for this site.At the street level,seating and landscaping are featured inthe widened sidewalk and paved plaza.The amphitheater below is intended as both a performance space and acasu182、al seating area.Finally,visitors would have access to a dock-level esplanade from which to view river traffic.Site conditions PROPOSEDIMPROVEMENTS300 South WackerChapter Two:The Plan -Reach Six61Chicago River Corridor Development Plan 62RECREATION:Wolf Point ParkExisting connection under Lake Shore 183、DrivePROPOSEDIMPROVEMENTSChicago River Corridor Development Plan 63Wolf Point ParkReach SevenGOALS:Increase public access to the river.Create additional recreational areas.Create a greenway through industrial areas.Work with the private sector to complete a greenway on setbacks.CHARACTERISTICS:This 184、reach is dominated by industrial and commercial uses.Open space is limited in nearby residential areas.Due to the heavy industrial nature of this section,there are no pedestrian paths adjacent to the waterway.CONSTRAINTS:Publicly owned land is limited.Barge traffic and industrial uses limit the pote185、ntial for water-edge development and cantilevered dock construction.Soil and groundwater tend to be heavily contaminated.Pedestrian and automobile access to the river is poor.OPPORTUNITIES:River access can be included in new development plans.Several large parcels of former industrial land are avail186、able for redevelopment.A proposed extension to the Chicago Riverwalk will provide a connection from downtown to Chinatown.Chicago River Corridor Development Plan 64Chapter Two:The Plan -Reach Seven65Reach Seven:South Branch Riverwalk-Congress Parkway to Halsted AvenueExisting Green SpaceProposed Riv187、er Park DevelopmentProposed Development Opportunity SiteProposed River Edge LandscapingExisting Riverwalk PathProposed Riverwalk PathProposed Street End ParkProposed Canoe Access SiteProposed Pedestrian BridgeCongress ParkwayRooseveltCermak31stSouth Branch:Halsted Avenue to Kedzie Av e n u eReach Ei188、ghtGOALS:Increase public access to the river.Create additional recreational areas.Create a greenway through industrial areas.Work with the private sector to complete the greenway on setbacks.CHARACTERISTICS:This reach is dominated by industrial and commercial uses.Open space is limited in nearby res189、idential areas.Due to the heavy industrial nature of this section,there are no pedestrian paths adjacent to the waterway.CONSTRAINTS:Publicly owned land is limited.Land that can be acquired often is heavily contaminated.High speed automobile traffic and poor sight lines make the Western Avenue bridg190、e hazardous for pedestrians and cyclists.West of Western,access to an alternative river crossing is impeded by the presence of rail linesand the Stevenson Expressway.OPPORTUNITIES:Illinois&Michigan Canal Origins Park is currently being developed by the Chicago ParkDistrict.An abandoned railroad brid191、ge west of WesternAvenue can be redeveloped for use by pedestrians and cyclists.Several large parcels of former industrial land are available for redevelopment.River access can be included in new development plans.OPPORTUNITYSITE:SOUTHBRANCHTURNINGBASIN CANALPORTRIVERWALKChicago River Corridor Devel192、opment Plan 66Chapter Two:The Plan -Reach Eight67Reach Eight:South Branch-Halsted to Kedzie Existing Green SpaceProposed River Park DevelopmentProposed Development Opportunity SiteProposed River Edge LandscapingExisting Riverwalk PathProposed Riverwalk PathProposed Street End ParkProposed Canoe Acce193、ss SiteProposed Pedestrian BridgeRooseveltCermakPershing31 stChicago River Corridor Development Plan 68PATHS:Pave and stripe Eleanor Street to accommodate pedestrian and bicycle traffic.Link the east and west banks of Bubbly Creek with a pedestrian bridge at Fuller Street.Develop a path and improve 194、the streetscape along Ashland Avenue to link with communities to the north and south.Create a street crossing at Ashland at the traffic light to link to the proposed CanalportRiverwalk.RIVERACCESS:Create overlooks with terraces to the watersedge on either end of the pedestrian bridge.Add on-street p195、arking on both sides of Ashland Avenue.Build a canoe launch in Illinois&Michigan Canal Origins Park at Bubbly Creek.HABITAT&LANDSCAPING:Improve the aquatic habitat with plants,underwater structures and a sheltered bank.RECREATION:Build a canoe launch at Canal Origins Park along Bubbly Creek.Create a196、 pull-over and drop-off point for canoes on Ashland Avenue.Develop a park on the east bank of the Turning Basin with a playground,picnic shelters,water access,fishing,and parking.Develop a landscaped neighborhood open space at Fuller,Hillock and Lock.ECONOMICDEVELOPMENT:Explore the potential for can197、oe rental and food concessions.The Illinois&Michigan Canal opened in 1848,linking Chicago with the Illinois River at LaSalle/Peru and,ultimately,the Mississippi River and the Gulf of Mexico.The town at its northern terminus,Bridgeport,wasthe home of packing plants and tanneries.These businesses were198、 clustered along the South Fork of the SouthBranch of the Chicago River,also known as Bubbly Creek.The I&M Canal soon was made obsolete by the railroads,and water traffic later shifted to the Sanitary and Ship Canal.This historic location is one of the fewopen space opportunities along the South Bra199、nch of the Chicago River and is planned as a major recreationaldestination.Currently,only the 1.5-acre Canal Origins Park site is publicly owned.Implementation of theplan will require acquisition of additional acreage on the east bank of Bubbly Creek.Riveredge greening onprivate land is also part of200、 the plan.South Branch Tu rning BasinVi ew of Origins Pa rk from the rive rPROPOSEDIMPROVEMENTSChapter Two:The Plan -Reach Eight69South Branch:South Branch Turning BasinProposed Multi-Use TrailExisting Multi-Use TrailChicago River Corridor Development Plan 70PATHS:Connect to the South Branch Turning201、 Basin siteto the east with a street crossing at the traffic light on Ashland Avenue.Improve the sidewalk and streetscape along Ashland Avenue to link with Pilsen and Chinatown to the north and south,respectively.Create a half-mile riveredge path south to the Santa Fe Slip,then west to Damen along t202、he improved access road.Link to the proposed riverwalk to the west.RIVERACCESS:Build overlooks with seating along the South Branch and the Santa Fe Slip.Create areas for bank fishing.HABITAT&LANDSCAPING:Install water-edge landscaping.RECREATION:Create a half-mile riveredge path south to the Santa Fe203、 Slip,then west to Damen along the improved truck access road.Create a multi-use path connecting to Canal Origins Park to the east.C a n a l p o rt Riverw a l kA major riverwalk with overlooks,landscaping and lighting is planned for this site,the future location of theChicago Sun-Times.It will compl204、ement the South Branch Turning Basin site to the east and be connected toit by streetscape improvements along Ashland Avenue.A multi-use path will run south along the Santa FeSlip,then west to link to a proposed riverwalk extension west of Damen Avenue.Existing river edge along Sun-Times site near A205、shland Ave nue BridgePROPOSEDIMPROVEMENTSChapter Two:The Plan -Reach Eight71South Branch:Canalport RiverwalkProposed Multi-Use TrailExisting Multi-Use TrailS a n i t a ry&Ship Canal:California Avenue to City LimitsReach NineGOALS:Increase public access to the canal.Create additional recreational are206、as.Create a greenway through industrial areas.Work with the private sector to complete the greenway on setbacks.CHARACTERISTICS:This reach is dominated by industrial and commercial uses.Open space is limited in nearby residential areas.Nearly all canal-edge land is owned by MWRD,but the majority is 207、leased to industrialusers.Due to the heavy industrial nature of this section,there are no pedestrian paths adjacent to the waterway.CONSTRAINTS:Soil and groundwater tend to be heavily contaminated.Steep banks are hazardous and limit access.Heavy barge traffic limits recreational boating.OPPORTUNITIE208、S:Links can be made to the I&M Canal Bike Trail,the Lockport Historic Trail and the planned Centennial Trail.Chicago River Corridor Development Plan 72Chapter Two:The Plan -Reach Nine73Reach Nine:Sanitary&Ship Canal-California Avenue to City LimitsExisting Green SpaceProposed River Park DevelopmentP209、roposed Development Opportunity SiteProposed River Edge LandscapingExisting Riverwalk PathProposed Riverwalk PathProposed Street End ParkProposed Canoe Access SiteProposed Pedestrian BridgeCermak43rd31stChicago River Corridor Development Plan 74The Chicago River Corridor Development Plan will requir210、e the support of numerous government agencies andother organizations to implement.Fortunately,there are also numerous existing and potential tools that thesegroups can use.They include regulatory tools,such as the setback ordinance and the design guidelines.Theyalso include financial resources,gener211、al revenues as well as TIF and Empowerment Zone funds.The broadrange of government agencies involved in the ownership and management of the river presents an opportunity.Each partner agency can incorporate key pieces into its mission and capital plan and coordinate grant requestsin complementary way212、s.On April 21,1998,the Chicago City Council amended the Chicago Zoning Ordinance adding guidelines forplanned developments along the Chicago River.The amendment requires a 30-foot setback from the top of thebank landscaped with plants that enhance the riparian environment.It also requires that all n213、ew developmentwithin 100 feet of the river,with certain exceptions,comply with the Citys adopted design guidelines.Further,a definition of“top of the bank”is provided.O v e rv i e wBE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CHICAGOSECTION 1.Title 17 of the Municipal Code of Chicago,the Chicag214、o Zoning Ordinance,is herebyamended in Section 11.11-1(n)by deleting the language in brackets and adding theunderscored language as follows:(n)The development of land with any building,structure,or parking area,where anyportion of the land is located within 100 feet of any waterway,shall be permitte215、d only when processed as a planned development subject to the provisions herein;provided,however,that the repair or rehabilitation of any portion of an existing building,structure or parking area shall be exempt from this requirement.Additionally,outside the area bounded by Chicago Avenue,Lake Michi216、gan,Cermak Road and Halsted Street,the following shall also be exempt from this requirement;(i)residential structures containing three or fewer dwelling units and structures which are accessory or additions thereto;and(ii)other buildings,structures or parking areas which are accessory or an addition217、 to an existing building,structure or use and are either 500 square feet or less in enclosed floor area or are set back a minimum of 30 feet from the waterway top of the bank.For purposes of this section,top of the bank means the slope adjacent to the waters edge and that point at the top of the slo218、pe at which the contour of the slope ceases to be 10%or more.Notwithstanding the foregoing,such exempt development may be considered for a planned development upon application subject to the provisions herein.The waterways subject to this provision shall include:Chicago River Main Branch,Chicago Riv219、er North Branch and North Branch Canal,Chicago River South Branchand South Fork of the South Branch,North Shore Channel,Chicago Sanitary and Ship Canal,Calumet River and Lake Calumet,Little Calumet River,Grand Calumet Setback Ord i n a n c eChapter Three:Implementation StrategiesChapter Three:Implem220、entation Strategies75River,Wolf Lake,and Des Plaines River.Measurements Measurement of the 100 foot distance shall be made from the high water mark boundary of the waterwayalong an axis generally perpendicular to the waterway.The provisions of Sections 11.11-1(o)and(p)hereof shall not be applicable 221、to this Section 11.1(n).(Amend.Coun.J.7-29-92,p.20476.)SECTION 2.Title 17 of the Municipal Code of Chicago,the Chicago Zoning Ordinance,is herebyamended in Section 11.11-2(l)by addition the underscored language as follows:11.11-2 Guidelines.In reviewing an application for planned development filed p222、ursuant to Section 11.11-3,theCommissioner of Planning and Development,the Chicago Plan Commission and the CityCouncil shall give consideration to the following guidelines:(l)The beauty,amenity,economic potential,recreation value and environmental quality ofChicagos waterways should be protected and223、 enhanced by developing more attractiverelationships between land and water.In the development of land adjacent to waterways,aplanned development should:(1)Provide public waterfront paths,plazas,overlooks,esplanades and access points where appropriate.(2)Include provisions for landward connections t224、o maintain continuity and linkagewith nearby public edge improvements at locations of active commercial/industrial waterfront activities.(3)Provide adequate setbacks for bulk storage facilities to prevent littering or leaching of pollutants into the waterways.(4)Include stabilizing treatments for wa225、terway edges with landscaping screening forvisual relief and safety provisions for landslide and waterside users.(5)Provide boat landings and/or water oriented commercial facilities whereappropriate and feasible.(6)Provide a minimum setback of thirty(30)feet from the top of the bank along all points226、 of the waterway.For purposes of this section,top of the bank means the slope adjacent to the waters edge and that point at the top of the slope at which the contour of the slope ceases to be 10%or more.All setback areas shall be landscaped with trees and vegetation which shall be compatible with an227、d enhance the riparian environment.This minimum setback applies to the following waterways:Chicago River Main Branch,Chicago River North Branch and North Branch Canal,Chicago River South Branch and South Fork of the South Branch,North Shore Channel,Chicago Sanitary and Ship Canal.(7)Comply with the 228、general goals set forth in the Chicago River Urban Design Guidelines-Downtown Corridor,and any other inland waterways design guidelines adopted by the Chicago Plan Commission.SECTION 3.This ordinance shall be in force and effect from and after its passage and due publication.Chicago River Corridor D229、evelopment Plan 78Design GuidelinesDesign guidelines are used to ensure development that is compatible,both with nearby development and withits environment.The Design Guidelines component of the Chicago River Corridor Development Plan andDesign Guidelines uses text and images to stimulate developmen230、t that is harmonious both with itssurroundings and the goals of the Plan outlined in the introduction.The Guidelines address all proposedimprovements,including landscaping,new or rehabilitated structures,paving,lighting,furnishings andsignage.Also included are“plant palettes,”recommendations of flow231、ers,shrubs and trees appropriate fordifferent areas of the river.The Guidelines will be used by the Chicago Department of Planning andDevelopment and other units of government in their review of all proposed improvements along the river.These guidelines are intended to be comprehensive,to address al232、l redevelopment and new development in allareas adjacent to the Chicago River.Where a proposed activity or area is not addressed by the guidelines,theunderlying principles of these guidelines will be used to develop project-specific guidelines.RIVERDEVELOPMENTZONESLand along the river can be divided233、 into three zones,or areas,as follows:Riverbank Zone Urban Greenway Zone Development ZoneChapter Three:Implementation Strategies79RIVERBANKZONEThe Riverbank Zone is the area adjacent to theriver between the waters edge and the top of thebank,where a bank exists.Where there is avertical bulkhead or o234、ther engineered verticalstructure there is no riverbank zone.In general,this area should not be developed or disturbedexcept for environmental restoration andlandscaping,so that it can act as a buffer betweenthe river and adjacent uses and can enhance the“green”aspects of the continuous greenwaycorr235、idor.URBANGREENWAYZONEThe Urban Greenway Zone is the area between thetop of the bank or face of the vertical bulkheadand the setback line furthest from the river and the top of the bank.This zone is,in general,either a landscaped area with passive uses,or anarea which accommodates the continuous mul236、ti-use path and/or other recreational uses.Therefore,it is characterized by more active uses than theRiverbank Zone.The Urban Greenway Zone willnot be developed with commercial,residential,institutional or other uses,although limited accessory uses are permitted within this area.DEVELOPMENTZONEThe D237、evelopment Zone is,in general,the areawhere renovation,redevelopment,or new development will occur.Such development may be commercial,residential,institutional,or anyother use permitted by the zoning for the site.Chicago River Corridor Development Plan 78Capital Improvement Pro g r a mThe Chicago Ri238、ver Corridor Development Planand Urban Design Guidelines identifies 22“opportunity sites,”projects along the river wherespecific types of public investment are proposed.Development of these sites will require a ten-yearinvestment strategy involving commitments frommany different agencies using many 239、differentfunding sources.To prepare a final budget andfunding strategy,the Steering Committeeproposed the following steps be undertaken in theimplementation phase:Project Prioritization Final Cost Estimation Funding CoordinationPROJECTPRIORITIZATIONThe Steering Committee prepared the followinglist o240、f criteria with which to rank the proposedprojects in order of priority:The project forms links between existing facilities,as in a key section of path or greenwaywhere none currently exists.It is part of a cluster of projects and its construction would enhance the value of the cluster.The project i241、s highly visible,with the potential to greatly improve the areas aesthetic value when seen from the land or the river.It has the potential to be heavily used,resultingin a high ratio of benefits to costs.It fills an unmet need,providing a use otherwiseunavailable in a neighboring community or elsewh242、ere on the river.It contributes to a geographically balanced distribution of a particular use along the river,allowing access by the greatest number of users.Significant partnerships exist to support project funding,maintenance,and operations.Local community leadership and support for theproject is 243、strong.It is“do-able,”with few barriers to timely completion.FINALCOSTESTIMATIONPriority projects will next go through an engineering phase.Detailed construction drawingswill be developed,allowing for precise estimationof project costs.These cost estimates will beanalyzed and refined by a design rev244、iew teamcomposed of representatives of key agencies whosemissions include responsibility for some aspect ofriver maintenance and operations,including the Chicago Department of Planningand Development,the Chicago Department ofTransportation,the Metropolitan WaterReclamation District,the Chicago Park 245、District,the Forest Preserve District of Cook County,andthe U.S.Army Corps of Engineers.FUNDINGCOORDINATIONFinancial commitments will be sought from each of the key agencies mentioned above.These commitments will form a coordinated ten-year capital budget.Each of these agencies draws from a number o246、ffunding sources in addition to their general funds:(DPD will map the relevant development geographies along the river)Foundation and governments grants Municipal bonds Tax increment financing revenues Federal Community Development Block Grants Federal Empowerment Zone funds Chicago River Corridor D247、evelopment Plan 79E n v i ronmental RecommendationsThe Chicago River Corridor Development Plan seeks a balance between the demands of human users of theChicago River and the natural environment.With this in mind,the plans Steering Committee identified aneed for a set of guiding objectives for stewar248、dship of the natural environment within the river corridor.TheSteering Committee formed an Environmental Subcommittee to develop these objectives.The Environmental Subcommittees recommendations are contained in the following Environmental ActionAgenda.This Action Agenda relates to the activities of 249、numerous non-profit and public agencies whosemissions include river stewardship and education.It is divided into two sub-areas:Management Activities andDesign Guideline Recommendations.MANAGEMENTACTIVITIESThe following guiding objectives are accompanied by actions that the City of Chicago will pursu250、e inpartnership with other government agencies,non-profit environmental and civic organizations,and the privatesector.Where appropriate,monitoring and evaluation should be incorporated to continuously fine tuneprotection efforts.OBJECTIVE1:CREATE,RESTORE ANDMANAGERIVEREDGEBUFFERSA.DESCRIPTIONA buffe251、r is a natural area immediately adjacent to a waterbody where development is restricted to stabilize river banks,provide habitat for fish and aquatic life,protect water quality,and provide a visually appealing screen.A riveredge buffer complements riveredge setback requirements,such as those set for252、th in the City of Chicago Setback Ordinance.While the setback is measured from the top of the bank,the buffer is measured from the rivers edge and extends a limited distance into the setback.B.ACTIONS1.Encourage landowners to protect and restoreriveredge buffers along the river.2.Encourage landowner253、s to remove engineered edges,particularly where seawalls need repair or have failed,and create naturalized banks.3.Encourage landowners to manage stream buffers by removing undesirable,non-native plant species and planting recommendedriparian species.4.Market and distribute the“Native PlantGuide for254、 Streams and Stormwater Facilities in Northeastern Illinois.”5.Identify and restore natural areas or green corridors that support sensitive habitats.6.Develop a land acquisition strategy and easement program to link discontinuous green corridors.OBJECTIVE2:RESTORE ANDENHANCERIVERBANKSA.DESCRIPTION:T255、o control streambank erosion and deterioration ofexisting bulkheads,and to restore the Riversnatural character over the long run,land ownersshould be encouraged to restore and enhancenaturalized banks.Potential projects includereshaping eroded areas,installing fish habitatstructures,establishing per256、manent nativevegetation,and in some areas using rock,geogrids,fiber rolls,live fascines,cribwalls and other soilstabilizing structures.River bank restorationshould conform with appropriate permitting and regulations.B.ACTIONS1.Inventory severely eroded sites.2.Encourage alternatives to sheet piling 257、and other conventional bank stabilization methods.3.Identify demonstration sites to test alternative methods,Monitor and evaluate their effectiveness once implemented.4.Create incentives for owners to remove bulkheads and regrade overly-steep slopes to restore banks to a naturalized state.5.Encourag258、e planting of native riparian plants within the river bank zone.6.Develop programs to coordinate efforts and assist with bank restoration.7.Train and develop personnel within government agencies to restore and maintain river banks.Chicago River Corridor Development Plan 80OBJECTIVE3:CREATE,RESTORE,P259、ROTECT ANDENHANCEWETLAND,RIPARIAN,ANDAQUATICHABITATSA.DESCRIPTION:Wetland,riparian and aquatic habitats have beenseverely degraded over the years by unwise orsingle-purpose development.The cumulativeresult of these impacts is often a reduction ofecological functions.Policies are needed that provide 260、self-sustaining levels of wetland,aquaticand riparian biodiversity;requirements for identification and protection of the remaininghealthy habitats;and restoration or naturalizationof these habitats.Policies must also be developed that integrate wetland,aquatic,andriparian protection,restoration and 261、naturalizationwith local economic benefits and community revitalization.B.ACTIONS1.Create new wetlands where feasible.2.Identify appropriate sites for instream habitatand vegetation to support fish and aquatic life.3.Restock fish and develop management plans.4.Identify sites to develop as wildlifesa262、nctuaries.5.Encourage the use of native plant species as recommended in the plant palette included inthe Design Guidelines.6.Conduct a comprehensive study of riparian and aquatic wildlife and habitat conditions tocomplement existing studies.OBJECTIVE4:IMPROVE ANDPROTECTWATERQUALITYA.DESCRIPTION:Fede263、ral,state and local efforts have greatly reducedwater pollution in the Chicago River,making theriver an attractive resource to humans and wildlife.Continued improvement in water quality willenhance the aquatic and riparian wildlife andhabitats,development opportunities andrecreational uses.B.ACTIONS264、1.Review stormwater management practices and develop policies and regulations to encourage or require best management practices such as swales,biofilters,filter stripsand detention basins.Encourage stormwater retrofitting to reduce runoff into the sewer system and the river.2.Develop soil erosion an265、d sediment control policies and regulations for riverfront developments,following NIPC model ordinances and procedures in the Illinois Green and Blue Books.3.Based on the results of monitoring,identify measures to improve water quality in river reaches not achieving state water quality standards.4.D266、evelop an interagency strategy to improve water quality to reach the States fishable and swimmable“general use”designation.OBJECTIVE5:ESTABLISHRIVERCORRIDOREDUCATIONANDMANAGEMENTPROGRAMSA.DESCRIPTION:Education and management programs arenecessary to maintain the benefits accomplishedthrough this Act267、ion Agenda.Such programs canbe useful for coordinating many of the effortsunderway to protect the river.Educational programs in particular will play a key role in raising the awareness by landowners and thepublic of the rivers many resources.Additionally,a system-wide management program will allowdi268、verse initiatives to occur in a coordinated manner.As a first step in establishing a management program,joint funding can besought from the private and public sectors toassess and map existing conditions.Problem areasshould be prioritized and conditions tracked.B.ACTIONS1.Prepare and periodically ma269、p river corridor environmental features(bank conditions,habitat,water levels and quality,monitoring stations,etc.)and problem areas.2.Support volunteer monitoring and tracking ofriparian and aquatic habitat and wildlife,and water quality.3.Increase awareness and protection of natural features along 270、the river corridor with informational signage.4.Develop public education programs and brochures.5.Develop information packages for developers and landowners.6.Periodically evaluate environmental conditions and modify management programsas appropriate.7.Support and encourage community stewardship.Cha271、pter Three:Implementation Strategies81ENVIRONMENTALRECOMMENDATIONS1.Developments should create,restore and protect environmental buffers along the river in order to stabilize river banks,provide habitat for fish and aquatic life,protect water quality,and provide an appealing naturalistic river edge.272、a.The buffer should extend from the rivers edge(normal water line)to a point five feet beyond the top-of-bank.b.Where the width of the riverbank zone is less than 20 feet,the buffer should extend an additional distance into the urban greenway zone,or setback,so that the total width of the buffer is 273、25 feet.However,in no case is itrequired that the buffer extend more than 15 feet into the urban greenway zone,or setback.c.While there is a strong preference to locate the buffer entirely along the rivers edge,on some sites there may exist conditions(such as a building,a wall,or a conflicting land 274、use)that would compel the location of a public access trail away from the outside edgeof the setback and toward the river.Under these circumstances,flexibility should be provided to allow part of the environmental buffer to be located along the outside of the trail and away from the river.However,in275、 nocase should a paved trail or its landscaped shoulder extend closer than five feet to the top of the bank.2.The buffer is to be managed as a natural area,utilizing native riparian vegetation and avoiding incompatible structures.a.In order to minimize maintenance needs,provide effective stabilizati276、on of the riverbanks,and meet the other environmentaland aesthetic objectives of this policy,native vegetation adapted to the riparian zone should be utilized for landscaping purposes.The recommended reference for native riparian plants is the“Native Plant Guide forStreams and Stormwater Facilities 277、in Northeastern Illinois.”b.To preserve the stability and environmental integrity of the buffer,structures(including paved pathways)generally should not be located within the buffer,except as allowed inparagraph 1c above.Structures necessary to accommodate river-dependent uses areexempt from the buf278、fer recommendations.In order to provide an appropriate balance between environmental needs and access to the river for recreation and viewing,structures such as benches and fishing platforms may be allowed within the buffer on a limited basis.3.Where existing conditions do not conform to these buffe279、r policies,landowners are encouragedto restore buffer features consistent with these policies.a.Landowners are encouraged to manage vegetation in the buffer by removing undesirable,non-native plant species and replanting recommended riparian species as identified in the“Native Plant Guide for Stream280、s and Stormwater Facilities in Northeastern Illinois.”b.Landowners also are encouraged to remove structures such as bulkheads and to regrade overly-steep slopes,consistent with the aquatic habitat and other environmental objectives of this policy.Such actions should be consistent with sound engineer281、ing principles and conform to appropriate permitting requirements,especially under theHarbor and Floodplain Ordinances.Chicago River Corridor Development Plan 82Public/Private River Development CorporationAs a complement to the activities of the existinggovernment agencies and non-profits,theDepartm282、ent of Planning and Development willexplore the creation of a Chicago RiverDevelopment Corporation.The corporationsmission would be to encourage and promoteimprovements adjacent to the Chicago River thatare compatible with the goals of the Chicago RiverCorridor Development Plan and Urban DesignGuide283、lines.The corporation would be structured asa delegate agency to the City of ChicagoDepartment of Planning and Development to assistin the implementation of the plan in the followingways:market the plan to businesses adjacent to the river establish“riverscape associations”for each of the nine reache284、s to raise funds and encourage participation in riverfront improvement efforts assist existing businesses and new developers in designing riveredge improvements that arecompatible with the plan administer public programs to fund of private improvements be structured as a 501 c(3)non-profit corporati285、on be governed by a board of directors that includes a business representative from each of the nine reaches as well as representatives of government and non-profits be managed by an executive directorAcknowledgements83A c k n o w l e d g e m e n t sCITY OFCHICAGOHonorable Richard M.Daley,MayorDEPAR286、TMENT OFPLANNING ANDDEVELOPMENTChristopher R.HillCommissionerCHICAGORIVERPLAN&DESIGNGUIDELINESSTEERINGCOMMITTEECO-CHAIRSChristopher R.HillCity of Chicago,Department of Planning&DevelopmentGregory HummelBell,Boyd&LloydCIVIC&RECREATIONGerald W.AdelmannOpenlands ProjectKathy DickhutNeighborSpaceGary Me287、chanic Illinois Paddling CouncilLawrence Msall Civic Committee of The Commercial Club of ChicagoEleanor RoemerFriends of the ParksPeter SkoseyMetropolitan Planning CouncilKent TaylorOpenlands ProjectErma TranterFriends of the ParksLaurene von KlanFriends of the Chicago RiverINDUSTRY&DEVELOPMENTGrant288、 CrowleyCrowleys Yacht YardDeborah DoyleDoyle&AssociatesTem HorwitzHorwitz&Co.Bill LunaEighteenth Street Development CorporationJohn MacManusMacManus&AssociatesCarolyn MartinezIndustrial Council of Northwest ChicagoRob MayCANDORichard MonzingoUnicomArmando SalehEighteenth Street Development Corporat289、ionWill TippensLR Development,Inc.Howard Weiner Dearborn Development CorporationGOVERNMENTSarah BennettU.S.Army Corps of EngineersJohn C.FarnanMetropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater ChicagoPatricia GallagherChicago Department of Planning and DevelopmentPaul GobsterU.S.Forest ServiceLuann290、 HamiltonChicago Department of TransportationWink HastingsNational Park ServiceChicago River Corridor Development Plan 84John HendersonChicago Park DistrictLori HeringaNortheastern Illinois Planning CommissionEd HoffmanIllinois Department of Natural ResourcesRichard Lanyon Metropolitan Water Reclama291、tion District of Greater ChicagoAllan MellisForest Preserve District of Cook CountyChristine SlatteryChicago Department of Planning and DevelopmentGregory TartaraChicago Department of the EnvironmentPatricia YoungMetropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater ChicagoJoseph ZehnderChicago Departm292、ent of Planning and DevelopmentSETBACKSUBCOMMITTEEEsther ArandaChicago Department of Planning and DevelopmentNori BleimanChicago Department of Planning and DevelopmentDeborah DoyleDoyle&AssociatesPatricia GallagherChicago Department of Planning and DevelopmentLuanne HamiltonChicago Department of Tra293、nsportationTem HorwitzHorwitz&Co.Gregory HummelAttorney-at-lawMary LambertThe Lambert Group,Inc.Rob MayCANDOChristine SlatteryChicago Department of Planning and DevelopmentTom SmithChicago Department of Planning and DevelopmentEdward UhlirChicago Park DistrictLaurene von KlanFriends of the Chicago R294、iverHoward Weiner Dearborn Development CorporationTed WolffWolff Clements&Associates,Ltd.Joseph ZehnderChicago Department of Planning and DevelopmentENVIRONMENTALSUBCOMMITTEEEsther ArandaChicago Department of Planning and DevelopmentDennis DreherNortheastern Illinois Planning CommissionKent FullerU.295、S.Environmental Protection AgencyPatricia GallagherChicago Department of Planning and DevelopmentDrew HartChicago Department of the Environment Lori HeringaNortheastern Illinois Planning CommissionRichard Lanyon Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater ChicagoAllan MellisForest Preserve Di296、strict of Cook CountyJeff MenglerU.S.Fish and Wildlife ServiceRich MonzingoUnicomSteve PeschitelliIllinois Department of Natural ResourcesEleanor RoemerFriends of the ParksBob RungIllinois Department of Natural ResourcesKent SimsUSDA Natural Resources Conservation ServiceTom SmithChicago Department 297、of Planning and DevelopmentGregory TataraChicago Department of the Environment Kent TaylorOpenlands ProjectBill SchmidtWolff Clements&Associates,Ltd.Virginia SorrellsV.Sorrells,Ltd.Edward K.UhlirChicago Park DistrictAcknowledgements85Laurene von KlanFriends of the Chicago RiverBill WhiteIllinois Dep298、artment of Natural ResourcesJoseph ZehnderChicago Department of Planning and DevelopmentCITYSTAFFEsther ArandaChicago Department of Planning and DevelopmentNitin BhutaniChicago Department of Planning and DevelopmentNelson ChuengChicago Department of Planning and DevelopmentPatricia Gallagher Chicago299、 Department of Planning and DevelopmentTom GrayMayors Office of Special EventsLuann HamiltonChicago Department of TransportationJeff HeadChicago Department of Planning and DevelopmentAnni HerbenChicago Department of Planning and DevelopmentDon HohenadelChicago Department of Planning and DevelopmentC300、hristine SlatteryChicago Department of Planning and DevelopmentJack SwensonChicago Department of Planning and DevelopmentGregory TataraChicago Department of the EnvironmentDennis VicchiarelliChicago Department of Planning and Development Joe ZehnderChicago Department of Planning and DevelopmentCONSU301、LTANTSCONTRIBUTING TORIVERCORRIDORDEVELOPMENTPLAN&GUIDELINESMary LambertThe Lambert Group,Inc.Ike HongPacific Construction ServicesVirginia SorrellsV.Sorrells,Ltd.Ted WolffWolff Clements and Associates,Ltd.Bill SchmidtWolff Clements and Associates,Ltd.Philip EnquistSkidmore,Owings&Merrill,LLPFerhat 302、ZerinSkidmore,Owings&Merrill,LLPChristopher HallSkidmore,Owings&Merrill,LLPChicago River Corridor Development Plan 86Association of Illinois Soil and Water ConservationDistricts,Procedures and Standards for Urban SoilErosion and Sedimentation Control in Illinois(TheGreen Book),July1988City of Chicag303、o,Chicago Park District,Forest Preserve District of Cook County,CitySpace:An Open Space Plan for Chicago(Chicago,IL:City ofChicago Department of Planning and Development,January 1998)City of Chicago,Bicycle Facilities Development Plan(Chicago,IL:City of Chicago Transportation,1997)James DeFrancia,et304、 al.,North BranchCommunity,Chicago River:An Advisory ServicesPanel Report(Washington,D.C.:ULI-the UrbanLand Institute,February 1997)City of Chicago,Chicago River North Branch Riverwalk Concept Plan,December 1990City of Chicago,I&M Canal Origins Site:Preliminary Staff Summary of Information(Chicago,I305、L:City of Chicago Department of Planning and Development,April 1996)City of Chicago,Friends of the Chicago River,Chicago River Urban Design Guidelines:DowntownCorridor(Chicago,IL:City of Chicago Department of Planning,June 14,1990)U.S.Department of Agriculture,et al.,NativePlant Guide for Streams an306、d Stormwater Facilities in Northeastern Illinois(Naperville,IL:USDA NaturalResources Conservation Service,December 1997)U.S.Department of Agriculture Natural ResourcesConservation Service and Illinois Environmental Protection Agency,Illinois Urban Manual:A Technical Manual Designed for Urban Ecosystem Protection and Enhancement(Champaign,IL:1995)B i b l i o g r a p h y