Architect:

CTE Engineers

Engineers:

CTE Engineers

Contractors:

Walsh Landscaping, Natural Creations, Walsh Construction Corporation of Illinois

Other Consultants:

Conservation Design Forum

Category:

Public Design

The construction of a new pedestrian underpass beneath the reconstructed South Lakeshore Drive required a landscape that would transition from Jackson Park through the underpass to the sandy 63rd Street Beach. By integrating the existing grade, the landscape architect created a picturesque grassland path on Chicago’s south side that suggests a back dune. The grassland includes plants that can withstand the harsh lakefront environment and stabilizes steep slopes while providing a dramatic contrast to other areas of the Frederick Law Olmsted-designed park.

After months of studying the site, the proposed reconstruction and a survey of the existing roadway landscape, the landscape architect presented the native grassland concept for approval by the clients and neighborhood groups. Since the proposed design required changing the historic pattern of green lawn with canopy trees into grassland, discussion included reviewing historic park plans. Upon approval, the final plan highlighted the benefits of supporting the City of Chicago’s ongoing green initiatives: using sustainable plantings; increasing biodiversity and reducing mowing, spraying and watering.

The 63rd Street native grassland planting is recognized for its natural beauty and link with the region’s historic ecology. The back dune-like environment provides numerous advantages, including simplifying maintenance and providing the community and the Chicago Park District the opportunity to share responsibility.

Special recognition for the project goes to the Chicago Department of Transportation for construction of five new landscape pedestrian underpasses in Jackson Park. The underpasses provide safe, attractive, handicapped accessible pedestrian walkways to Lake Michigan from the historic 660-acre Jackson Park and surrounding neighborhoods.