Plans
Projects
A. Grand Pavilion
This multi-dimensional project will introduce new features to expand programming and event opportunities at this exceptionally popular spot. In addition to incorporating green infrastructure in a reimagined parking lot, new features will include a spacious patio, a stone fireplace, improved grill stations, and expanded utility accommodations for event vendors.
B. Prairie Nature Garden
This feature reimagines a water detention area as a prairie pollinator garden featuring native plants. The garden is designed to showcase and educate the public about native ecology and habitat while providing a hands-on experience for volunteer gardeners and creating natural storm water filtration.
C. Riverbank Ecological Restoration
Work has begun to replace non-native plantings along the riverbank with resilient native landscape to create a deep-rooted system to deter erosion and improve the river ecology. Pathways are being established between upper and lower walkways in high traffic areas to prevent erosion from foot traffic. Once established, these areas will need less frequent maintenance.
D. Netzley Overlook
Slightly expanded with an additional lighted ingress/egress route to improve safety.
E. Paddle Boat Quarry
Work has already started to clean up some of the vegetation to improve views from the quarry overlooks. Steep slopes will be stabilized with structural and native vegetative methods for sustainability and maintenance.
F. Eagle Street Gateway
Scheduled for construction in 2024, a new gently sloping walk will improve accessibility and replace a stark retaining wall with landscaped terraces suitable for sitting, sunning, and viewing the river. Federal and City funding has been pledged to construct this prominent and important improvement.
G. Main Street to Washington Street Riverwalk
We anticipate that this area will be privately redeveloped in future. When it is, the Riverwalk Commission will work with property owners, developers, and the City to incorporate the Riverwalk into their plans. The vision includes a signature pedestrian that will enhance Downtown and Riverwalk connectivity.
H. 430 South Washington Street
This property is owned by North Central College and includes a campus arrival point in a park on the south bank of the river with a wide vista of Fredenhagen Park from busy Washington Street. The project has been designed, permitted, and funded, but awaits the reconstruction of the Washington Street Bridge, scheduled for completion in 2025.
I. East Bank Riverwalk
This project adds a new 1400-foot brick pedestrian Riverwalk path on the East bank of the river
with an adjacent bike path to connect to the DuPage River Trail, thereby connecting the Downtown from points south by bicycle.
J. Artist’s Overlook
A bucolic vantage point can be enhanced to encourage visitors to enjoy the natural beauty of the river and the wooded shoreline. Seating and permanent easels for artists might be added.
K. Hillside Road Gateway
A new plaza with stone accents, native plantings and signature Riverwalk elements will showcase this gateway and provide a comfortable spot to rest and socialize. Passage under Hillside Road will provide a safe connection to the new South Gateway.
L. South Gateway
The South Gateway will create new “front door” to the Riverwalk. A broad new Riverwalk path will safely and beautifully connect Martin Avenue and the adjacent Edward Hospital campus to Downtown via the existing Riverwalk, which currently terminates at Hillside Road. The South Gateway is funded and scheduled for construction in 2024.
