The Horner Park Advisory Council is pleased to report that after more than 14 years of advocacy, the Horner Riverbank restoration project has been approved!
On Wednesday, June 12, the Board of Commissioners of the Chicago Park District approved an Intergovernmental Agreement with the US Army Corps of Engineers to transfer funds, to begin the process of restoring the riverbank.
It is anticipated that the existing chain link fence will be removed, the grade will be softened, and all invasives will be removed, replaced by native plantings. The oak savannah on the south end of the park near Irving Park Road will be a featured part of the restoration. The restoration is expected to continue along Irving Park Road, south of the existing sidewalk, all the way to California.
The entire project is expected to cost $6.4 million, with the Federal Government picking up 2/3rds, and the Chicago Park District investing the other 1/3, with the value of the land accepted as part of their match.
Contracts are expected to be awarded this fall, and construction should begin shortly thereafter. It is unclear when completion is expected.
More information on this exciting development will be given at the July Horner Park Advisory Council meeting, on Monday July 1 at 7:30 PM on the second floor of the field house at Montrose and California. All are welcome.
