Dear Neighbors,

Today, the City announced its commitment to a feasibility study on the proposal to create the North Branch Park and Preserve. For nearly six years, we've been fighting alongside neighbors and activists for an appropriate amount of green space along the Chicago River. This is a big step for that effort.

Here is the statement I released today with Alderman Scott Waguespack (32):

"The announcement today regarding North Branch Park is a giant step towards a once-in-a-generation opportunity to provide the people of our community, and the entire city, with a world-class green space. Green spaces are so vital. Studies, like those done at the University of Illinois and University of Virginia show they contribute to public safety by 'removing mental fatigue and feelings of violence and aggression.' Additionally, the pandemic reminded us how critical it is for all of us to have access to open spaces and our river--places we can go outside of our homes and have recreational and leisure opportunities at a safe distance. Projects like this, as well as the African American Heritage Water Trail on the Little Calumet River, are critical and will link all areas of the city band our shared history via our waterways.

This is a great example of activists, including the dedicated people at OpenLands, Friends of Parks, and others, working together with local leaders to find ways to make our city a safer and better place to live for everyone."

Since 2016, we have pressed for the need for open space in the former North Branch Industrical Corridor, which is now largely occupied by the Lincoln Yards development. Working together, we organized, wrote op-eds, attended meetings with thousands of people, and testified numerous times at City meetings. 61% of Chicagoans in a city-wide poll supported the creation of this park.

The Chicago Tribune and Sun-Times endorsed the park, stating: "Grab the chance, Chicago, to create a green jewel along the North Branch."

Lincoln Park has seen enormous growth of families with children. In the past 15 years, the number of children under 14 has climbed 65%. While we have many fine small parks and playlots, our recreational facilities are stretched beyond capacity. We need public space for organized sports like baseball, soccer, and football as well as natural areas for individual exercise, relaxation, and the general well-being derived from open green space.

The North Branch Park Preserve provides the opportunity to connect all communities through our rivers. Our partnership with Openlands, Friends of the Park, Friends of the Chicago River, People for Community Recovery and so many others, promises an equitable use of resources to develop parkland accessible to everyone.

The planning firm for the feasibility study will be selected within the next month or so, with a target to complete the study within a year. Many resources will be needed, both public and philanthropic, to make this park and preserve a reality. Thanks to all of you who put in so much time and energy in advocating for the park thus far. If you would like to get more involved in the next steps of this project, please contact us.

I'd like to thank Mayor Lightfoot for her support of this feasibility study. We are grateful that she recognizes the importance of improving the environment for all communities.

Onward,