Public Input Session Provides Insight into Potential Design
Evanston residents and outdoor enthusiasts gathered at the Evanston Ecology Center for a public-input session on the proposed construction of a new boat launch on the North Shore Channel. The project aims to create an Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)-compliant launch site that would enhance accessibility for canoers, kayakers, and nature lovers. The session, held on November 28, provided attendees with the opportunity to review the plans, engage with representatives from Christopher B. Burke Engineering and Teska Associates, and offer their input on the proposed design.
Concerns and Appreciation for Design Efforts
During the public-input session, some attendees expressed concerns about the narrowness of the pedestrian ramps in the proposed design. Kayakers Bill Blanchard and Pete Anderson, who frequently explore Lake Michigan, worried that the 5-foot wide ramps would be too narrow for people to comfortably carry their watercraft to the launch site. Despite these concerns, Blanchard acknowledged the importance of the design efforts, particularly in creating spaces for people to sit and socialize. He emphasized that increasing public participation in outdoor activities would lead to better care and maintenance of the launch site.
Maggie Walker, a Chicago resident and former Ecology Center employee who ran its kayak program, praised the project for addressing the issue of accessibility. She highlighted the limited number of accessible launches in the city and expressed enthusiasm for the proposed boat launch, considering it a significant step forward.
Inclusive Design and Input from Adaptive Technology Groups
Jodi Mariano, principal urban designer for Teska Associates, shared that the firm has actively sought input from groups that utilize adaptive technology, including Adaptive Adventures, a Colorado-based nonprofit that offers outdoor sports opportunities for individuals with physical disabilities. This collaborative approach ensures that the design incorporates the needs and preferences of a diverse range of users.
Funding and Construction Plans
The proposed boat launch is planned to be constructed south of the Ecology Center’s parking lot and west of Bridge Street. The Evanston Environmental Association, a nonprofit organization that supports the Ecology Center through fundraising, volunteer assistance, and programming, aims to raise funds for the launch. The city of Evanston will cover the costs of renovating the parking lot across the street from the center.
The estimated cost of the project is $2.36 million, including expenses for walls, sidewalks, erosion control, earth moving, grading, excavation, preparation, demolition, ADA-compliant launch ramps, gangway, accessories, and site restoration. Additionally, the renovation of the parking lot, including lighting and landscaping, is estimated to cost $371,300.
Project Timeline
The city and the environmental association have been exploring the possibility of a boat launch project for several years. In 2020, a feasibility study was conducted by Oak Brook-based GZA GeoEnvironmental, funded by a state grant of $29,946. In February of this year, Evanston awarded a $125,498 contract to Rosemont-based Christopher B. Burke Engineering for the design of the project.
Site tours were conducted earlier this year, and fundraising is expected to begin in the fall and winter. Construction documents and permitting will take place next year, with the actual construction potentially occurring in 2025 or later, depending on funding, bids, and other factors.
Conclusion:
The proposed ADA-compliant boat launch on the North Shore Channel near the Evanston Ecology Center has garnered significant interest and support from the local community. The public-input session provided valuable insights into the design, with concerns raised about the width of pedestrian ramps and appreciation expressed for efforts to increase public participation and accessibility. As the project progresses, the collaboration with adaptive technology groups ensures inclusivity in the design process. With funding plans in place and a potential timeline for construction, the boat launch project holds promise for enhancing outdoor recreational opportunities in Evanston while prioritizing accessibility for all.
Leave a Reply