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Along a river once used as a drainage system for the city’s lumber and meatpacking industry, construction on the first phase of the Chicago Riverwalk began in 2001 as a part of the Chicago Department of Transportation’s Wacker Drive reconstruction project. Utilizing a narrow strip of area on the south bank of the river between Lake Shore Drive and Lake Street, the Riverwalk links a series of civic spaces, many of which are integrated into the construction of the road above them.
With each recognized for their unique programming, the Riverwalk has become known by many as the city’s “Second Lakefront,” highlighting the beauty, history and spirit of the river and vibrant city built around it. For cities seeking to further activate their waterfronts in constrained urban environments, the Chicago Riverwalk is a must see destination.
For more information visit: https://www.chicagoriverwalk.us/
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Article by Ennis Davis, AICP. Davis is a certified senior planner and graduate of Florida A&M University. He is the author of the award winning books “Reclaiming Jacksonville,” “Cohen Brothers: The Big Store” and “Images of Modern America: Jacksonville.” Davis has served with various organizations committed to improving urban communities, including the American Planning Association and the Florida Trust for Historic Preservation. A 2013 Next City Vanguard, Davis is the co-founder of ModernCities.com and Transform Jax, a tactical urbanist group. Contact Ennis at edavis@moderncities.com