April 17--Chicago is rightfully lauded for its gorgeous stretch of lakeshore.
But for its network of rivers, one of which is named "Chicago Sanitary and Ship Canal," not so much.
Now the city, the Metropolitan Planning Council and the Friends of the Chicago River are together seeking community feedback on how to make Chicago's river networks more accessible and attractive.
A 10-minute survey at GreatRiversChicago.com asks participants about their experience with Chicago's rivers, and what they would hope to see in the future.
The survey will be the first opportunity for folks to weigh in on changes to Chicago's rivers. Questions are focused on where the survey takers live, which rivers they interact with and what they think of the current use of rivers and riverfronts.
The city and Metropolitan Planning Council are beginning a process over the next 15 months to reimagine the Calumet, Chicago and Des Plaines rivers and riverfronts.
The project aims to improve everything from water quality to shipping and dining options, according to the survey site.
"The Riverwalk downtown and efforts throughout Chicago's neighborhoods prove that now is the time to develop a coordinated vision for all of Chicago's riverfront neighborhoods and open spaces," the survey website states. "Tying these promising but disparate efforts together will deliver to Chicagoans a network of rivers to rival the Lake Michigan shoreline."
geoffz@tribpub.com
