Evanston Seeks Public Input on Potential ADA-Compliant Boat Launch

Plans for a new boat launch on the North Shore Channel near the Evanston Ecology Center are unveiled, sparking discussions on accessibility and design.

Evanston residents and outdoor enthusiasts gathered at the Evanston Ecology Center for a public-input session on a proposed boat launch that would be compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The session, held on November 28, aimed to gather feedback on the design plans created by Christopher B. Burke Engineering and Teska Associates. With the goal of enhancing accessibility and preserving the natural beauty of the area, the proposed boat launch has garnered both excitement and concerns from the community.

Concerns over Accessibility and Design

Evanston kayakers Bill Blanchard and Pete Anderson, who frequently explore Lake Michigan, expressed concerns about the narrowness of the proposed 5-foot wide pedestrian ramps. They questioned whether the ramps would be wide enough for individuals to comfortably carry their watercraft down to the launch site. However, they also acknowledged the importance of the design efforts in creating spaces for socializing and enhancing public participation.

Chicago resident Maggie Walker, a former employee of the Ecology Center’s kayak program, emphasized the significance of accessibility for kayakers and other users of the North Shore Channel. She praised the proposed boat launch as a solution to the limited number of accessible launches in the area, highlighting the positive impact it would have on individuals with physical disabilities.

Inclusive Design and Input from Adaptive Technology Groups

Jodi Mariano, principal urban designer for Teska Associates, revealed that the firm actively sought input from organizations specializing in adaptive technology. One such group is Adaptive Adventures, a nonprofit based in Colorado that provides outdoor sports opportunities for individuals with physical disabilities. By incorporating feedback from these organizations, the design team aims to ensure that the boat launch meets the needs of a diverse range of users.

Funding and Cost Estimates

The proposed boat launch is planned to be located south of the Ecology Center’s parking lot and west of Bridge Street. The Evanston Environmental Association, a nonprofit group that supports the Ecology Center, would spearhead fundraising efforts for the launch. The city would cover the costs of renovating the parking lot across the street from the center.

The current estimated cost of the project is $2.36 million, which includes 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.

Long-Term Planning and Potential 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 GZA GeoEnvironmental, and in February of this year, Christopher B. Burke Engineering was awarded a contract to design the project. Site tours have already taken place, and fundraising is set to begin in the coming months. Construction documents and permitting are planned for next year, with bids and construction potentially taking place in 2025 or later, depending on funding.

Conclusion: The proposed ADA-compliant boat launch near the Evanston Ecology Center has sparked discussions about accessibility and design. While concerns have been raised about the width of pedestrian ramps, the overall response has been positive, with many recognizing the importance of increasing public participation and accessibility. With input from adaptive technology groups and plans for long-term fundraising and construction, the boat launch project aims to provide a valuable resource for the Evanston community and visitors alike.


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