In addition to the establishment of a biodiverse habitat, the framework plan envisions a series of environmental enhancements that ultimately result in the creation of a lagoon, formed by a constructed reef that serves as fish-spawning habitat and also works to calm wave activity. Various architectural features are also included in the plan, including an amphitheater integrated with the landscape.
The wetland and savanna on the southern end of the island will continue to mature and are already attracting birds and fish as well as other native species. Visitors can walk and bike along a looping path and enjoy activities in nature. Subsequent phases of the plan call for a new waterfront boardwalk and amenities with opportunities to kayak and scuba dive, among other activities.
Applied Ecological Services, Inc. Near South Side. Unveiled as an eco-park in , Northerly Island finally resembles the vision Daniel Burnham had for it in This artificial, but historically significant, spit of land was once used as an airport. The land known today as Northerly Island was conceived in the Plan of Chicago as the most northerly in a chain of island parks the rest of which went unbuilt.
Dredging and construction of the space was completed in But the onset of the Great Depression kept those plans from taking off for a time. The Adler Planetarium opened at the northern tip of the island in However, these structures were temporary and came down shortly after the fair closed in A Works Progress Administration WPA project transformed Northerly Island into a peninsula by connecting it to the mainland with an earthen causeway.
But the ongoing Great Depression and the ensuing World War stalled any further development until That year, the newly established United Nations needed a home, and Northerly Island received serious consideration. Ultimately, it lost out to New York City. Work began on the long-delayed airport in The narrower southern tip of the peninsula was widened to better accommodate a runway, and it opened in An air-traffic control tower was built in , and a modern terminal building opened in Linn White Dr.
Chicago, IL Chicago's famous architect and planner Daniel H. Burnham imagined Northerly Island as one of the northernmost points in a series of manmade islands stretching between Grant and Jackson Parks and exists as the only island to be completed. This lakefront Natural Area features prairie grasslands, a 5 acre pond, and strolling paths that offer great views for observing birds and other native wildlife. There are over different varieties of native plants and an emerging savanna with 20, trees and shrubs, all which provide an ecosystem for migratory and local birds.
Northerly Island offers year-round outdoor and environmental programs that are a catalyst for bringing communities together to develop an awareness, appreciation and knowledge of our natural environment. With wild prairie grasses taking root, strolling paths, superb fishing spots and rolling hills that frame a spectacular view of the City skyline, we invite you to come out and enjoy the emerging world of Northerly Island. Burnham imagined Northerly Island as one of the northernmost points in a series of manmade islands stretching between Grant and Jackson Parks.
His vision for this park included lagoons, harbors, beaches, recreation areas, a scenic drive and grand stretches of green space that would provide breathtaking views of the lake and City skyline.
Northerly Island and Burnham Park were selected as the site of Chicago's second World's Fair entitled A Century of Progress, , and by the early s, Northerly Island had been increased to its present size. In , the Chicago Park District removed the bridge leading to Northerly Island and built a causeway connecting the island to Burnham Park. Throughout the s and s, Northerly Island featured paths and walkways, scattered trees and grass, a parking lot and the 12th Street Beach.
Operations at Meigs expanded with the building of an air control tower in The year lease granted by the park district for Meigs Field expired on September 30, The City, Park District, and numerous civic organizations agreed that the airport should revert to parkland. With wild prairie grasses taking root, beautiful strolling paths, casual play areas, and a spectacular view of the City skyline, we invite you to come out and enjoy the emerging world of Northerly Island.
Metered parking is available in the lot on site. Get rates and additional information.
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