Client:

Department of Planning and Development, City of Chicago

Other Consultants:

Skidmore, Owings & Merrill, Wolff Clements & Associates, Ltd., Planning Resources, Inc., Jill Riddel, Studio V Design

Category:

Planning and Analysis

With over 4,000 acres of wetlands and other natural areas, the Calumet area on Chicago’s south side is a surprisingly valuable environmental resource in the City of Chicago. Over 200 species of birds are known to migrate through or nest in the area, which is also abundant in aquatic life. This is especially remarkable in a place known for its abandoned steel mills, industry and landfills. After decades of disinvestment, pollution and population loss, the City of Chicago is working to reverse these trends by creating a series of plans that will enhance and support business and industry while also protecting and improving the natural habitat.

The Calumet Open Space Reserve calls for natural area preservation, rehabilitation, recreation and trail connections and government action. The landscape architect led a team of planners in preparing the document, which provides information and maps of each site, proposed ownership of unprotected sites and a proposed trail map for the entire area.

The landscape architect led a second team that produced the Calumet Design Guidelines, which are aimed at private property slated for industrial redevelopment. The document describes and illustrates requirements for sustainable site design in the Calumet area, providing information on soils, hydrology and ecology.

A variety of public agencies are working together to make these plans realities, and the Calumet Tax Increment Financing District continues to fund projects that support the plans. Collectively, the Calumet Area Land Use Plan, the Reserve and the Guidelines present important strategies for improving the Calumet area and helping it to thrive as both an industrial center and a wildlife habitat.