A new riverwalk is taking shape on the South Branch of the Chicago River, the first phase in a stretch that will eventually link three megadevelopments.
Lendlease is putting the finishing touches on the first section of riverwalk through its Southbank development, according to Curbed. The project will feature a viewing platform, kayak launch, natural landscaping and a potential future water taxi stop. It’s adjacent to a 2-acre park that features a stone amphitheater.
The quarter-mile riverwalk will run from Harrison Street to the recently deconverted River City apartment complex. South of that, CMK Companies and Related Midwest have plans to extend it through their Riverline and The 78 project sites, eventually reaching Ping Tom Park in Chinatown.
Lendlease’s $1.2 billion Southbank plan includes as many as 2,700 residential units along with the riverwalk and park. The first phase, The Cooper at Southbank, a 452-unit rental building, opened in the fall.
[Curbed] — John O’Brien