Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAbout91-0814 Kane County Community Development RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING FILING OF APPLICATION FOR GRANT UNDER THE KANE COUNTY COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ASSISTANCE PROGRAM BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ELGIN, ILLINOIS, that an application be made to the Kane County Community Development Assistance Program for grant assistance for the restoration of Walton Island. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the City Manager be and is hereby authorized and directed to execute and file an application with the Kane County Community Development Assistance Program and to furnish such additional information and documents as may be required for the grant program. s/ George VanDeVoorde George VanDeVoorde, Mayor Presented: August 14, 1991 Adopted: August 14, 1991 Vote: Yeas 6 Nays 0 Recorded: Attest: s/ Dolonna Mecum Dolonna Mecum, City Clerk E1°'in. f I L E COPY TELEPHONE 708/695-6500 FAX 708/931-5610 FOR HEARING IMPAIRED 1 O TOD 708/931-5616 CITY OF ELGIN 150 DEXTER COURT ELGIN, ILLINOIS 60120-5555 August 16, 1991 Ms . Andrea Davis KCCDAP Coordinator Community Development Department County Government Center 719 Batavia Avenue Geneva, Illinois 60134 Dear Ms . Davis, We are pleased to present for your consideration a grant proposal which addresses the crucial needs of the Walton Island area. This renovation is an integral part of Elgin' s downtown redevelopment. The potential benefits of this project are exciting for Elgin and Kane County. Elginites have a great affection for the Fox River which is reflected in a major recommendation of the Center City master plan -- reorientation to the Fox River so that the River plays a pivotal role in the future of Elgin' s downtown. Walton Island is the cornerstone of this River Renaissance. As an attraction directly across from the Hemmens auditorium, the Gail Borden Library, and City Hall, Walton Island is in need of revitalization. Erosion is a major problem which will be addressed with bank stabilization. The Island suf- fers from a poor image with t e public due to deterioration of the islands itself, few amenities, and some criminal activ- ity. This leads to the present underutilization of a scenic area. Appropriate lighting of the island, site improvements, park furniture, an interpretive trail, and a children's play area are planned to increase the public's use. The Center City master plan represents a long-term commitment by Elgin to its downtown. With Kane County's continued sup- port this project can move forward. We have attached the appropriate documentation for the grant application. As our staff has discussed with your office, the change in grant application deadlines may require that supplemental material be made to this application as it be- comes available. If you need further information, please do not hesitate to call Bob Malm, Assistant City Manager, or Laura Ross, our grant coordinator (879-2084) . Thank you for your consideration. Ca e rry L. ce g City Mana KANE COUNTY COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ASSISTANCE PROGRAM CITY OF ELGIN RIVER RENAISSANCE - PHASE I Table of contents Title Page Number General Information Form 1 Project Summary Form ' Cycle I 2 Project Summary Form Cycle II 3 Project Description 4 Location Maps 6 Project Impact g Project Financing 9 Project Implementation 10 Cycle II Schedule 11 Public Notice 12 Copy of Public Notice 13 Attachments: Project Evaluation Sheet 14 Letter of Endorsement 15 Excerpts from the Center City Plan 17 Elgin Historical Society Letter 21 Elgin Public Museum Letter 22 Police report 23 News Articles 26 Environmental Assessment 30 11 APPLICATION FORM KANE COUNTY KCCDAP 1. GENERAL INFORMATION ABOUT THE PROJECT a. Name of Applicant City of Elgin b. Name of Project River Renaissance Phase I - Walton Island c. X Original Revision Amendment (Date) (Date) d. Contact Person Laura S. Ross Grant Coordinator (Name and Title) Address . 2 S. 648 Deerpath Road Phone 879-2084 City Batavia, IL Zip Code 60510 e. Project Abstract (Below - Provide a brief description of the Project) : After a year of planning, hundreds of revisions, meetings and public hearings, the City of Elgin's Comprehensive Center City Plan is in its final draft form. The key element of the Plan is the Renaissance of the Riverfront. The corner stone in the River Renaissance Plan is the Redevelopment of Walton Island. The City of Elgin requests KCCDAP funds in two Cycles for the restoration of this public space. Project components include design engineering, shoreline stabilization, habitat restoration, paths, landscaping, an interpretive area, and a children's play area. f. KCCDAP Funding Requested $75, 000 For Multi-Cycle Project: The funding requested is for 1 Cycle of a 2 Cycle Project g. List Project Sponsor (If applicable, See Part II.A. 2) : *Attach a Letter or Resolution of Endorsement City of Elgin h. CERTIFICATION: To the best of my knowledge and belief, data in this application are true and correct, the document has been duly authorized by the governing body of the applicant, and the applicant will comply with all regulations and • ideli • •licable to Kane County Community D= eip ment :ss.tanc- •rogram. Q q 411, Signat !7 Date 25 2 2. PROJECT SUMMARY FORM Page 1 of 2 a. Cycle 1 of 2 (Submit additional copies of this form estimating costs of future cycles.) b. Activity and Location c. Non-KCCDAP d. KCCDAP e. Zbtal (Note Eligible Funding Funding Cot Activities From Amount Amount Section II.B.) Design Engineering 40, 000 -- 40,000 Bank Stabilization/ 50 ,000 50 ,000 100,000 Habitat Restoration Path Construction 25 , 000 25 ,000 50 ,000 Phase 1 Total 115,000 75,000 190,000 26 3 2. PROJECT SUMMARY FORM Page 2 of 2 a. Cycle 2 of 2 (Submit additional copies of this form estimating costs of future cycles.) • b. Activity and Location c. Non-KCCDAP d. KCCDAP e. Total (Note Eligible Funding Funding Cyst Activities From Amount Amount Section II.B.) Lighting: Security and 20,000 20 ,000 40,000 Aesthetic Interpretive Area/ Children' s Activity Center 25 ,000 25 ,000 50 ,000 Site Amenities 10,000 10,000 20 ,000 Benches/Tables/Etc. Path Phase II/ 20 , 000 20 ,000 40 ,000 Habitat Planting/ Landscaping Total 75,000 75,000 150,000 26 3. PROJECT DESCRIPTION 4 BACKGROUND In the Spring of 1990 the City of Elgin, under the direction of the Center City Redevelopment Committee, sought the services of the design/planning firm of Sasaki Associates of Boston, Mass. After hundreds of revisions, meetings, and community hearings the Center City Plan is in its final draft form. One of the exciting features of both the public surveys and the professional recommendations is the focus on the Fox River as the cornerstone in the revitalization of the downtown area. Again and again in this 200 page comprehensive report the river is the focus of attention - the pivotal key in the renaissance of this historic city. Please see the attached excerpts from the Center City Master Plan. The Master Plan also highlights Walton Island. Built in 1934 as a WPA work project (please see the letter of support from the Elgin Historical Society) , Walton Island has, in the ensuing years, fallen into disrepair and suffers from a lack of attention due to its inaccessibility and reputation as being unsafe. Police documents attest that Walton Island is not an unsafe area (please see attached Police Department report and overview) , but public perception and a critical lack of development features make it an under used area. Sasaki Associates specifically sites Walton Island as an important first step in implementing the riverfront redevelopment plan. "Walton Island can and should play a vital role in the renaissance of the river". Walton Island is located in downtown Elgin directly across from Hemmens auditorium, the Gail Borden Library, and the Municipal Center. The Fox River Trail runs past Walton Island on the east bank which connects the Island to all of Kane County's trails, and riverside communities. Please see the attached location and development plans. PROPOSED ACTION The project outlined by this application is the redevelopment of Walton Island in two cycles. The first cycle calls for design engineering, bank stabilization, habitat restoration, and the initial construction of a pathway. The City will fund all of the engineering costs ($40,000) and $75,000 of the Cycle I construction. The request to KCCDAP is for $75,000 in Cycle I which will go directly to bank stabilization, habitat restoration and the path. The intent of the development is not only to ignite community attention towards the river but also to begin programs which will increase the community's awareness of and commitment to environmental/conservation practices. The Elgin Public Museum has happily agreed to provide 5 interpretive services and materials, nature programs, and Site Specific Teacher Guides once the Island has been renovated. Please see the attached letter of support from the Elgin Public Museum. The Cycle II project components are lighting, interpretive displays, a children' activity area, habitat planting, landscaping and site amenities (benches, tables etc. ) . Handicapped accessibility is also a key factor in the redevelopment of the Island and this consideration would be addressed in the Cycle II path construction. Cycle II costs will be a minimum of $150,000. All the costs and specific design details are subject to revision by the City Council pending review of the capital improvement budget and design presentations by the Architect. However this application represents, at a minimum, what these features and costs might be. - .. 21 1----. 1 \ . I I ... i . I j I 5 I 6 I 7 I 8 I 9 I 10 I 11 L - F."- -1 — --- • 77.1 I • . ,. . ., u, .,i __ Iniii\ELI. 1\0,- . i s • ... . ONIUNIII ''' t. ! 0•11.1......... I '...-_,_ ZiMpiffiiiiir .. ,--I A .„. .o . emommi ...,—. i • .i, -,,,,., --::,,,, YON II• -. . ".". 44. 41,t1 —-- ___ . Aria ir r INN.P. ...I t . 0 ••■■••0111 r.....•0••••.■■••••• . NOR TIMM TOLLVAT• ■ , wirmunim - - , 7 - — I --` "---- 'IMPEEKII I .JP2----;*--7------;••,... —,,,- i . t.... .11 '' ' I A. of...'" " PO ....p..:7■11,, ,;,,, 11:,, 'T.k A , If 0 i %. mipip_ch . '-:-:,-;=:-.,k:) , , . „„,,...-;,....„11 o.. ..w .., I INN, „ 1 'w/iwienniptl' _ i j' 1. ,A.:11.e./ ;ff.,' ,' ,f'14,... !.el enumm mum d)i., /4"41 mg ri/M,gm { EL MI i• ... .140%," ..imili,.. ..,.....*, thor .... It „..:,,,, • Aprc244.2,,,,I=. _ . _r... idaiikw. ----**- — --------■10 go.BE Ag, ensi LIELinr.miar--- ... di-i ---"*"./A" . 6,1H- , v4tEilyt% pesaafterl,. -41ri....,!ei4...- /*I ticiulluT2pgri 11-gattrp- 41 . * .„, 1 NH - 4. ‘-to. awiallition-10-4L4,)--- T- splinvourdni-m 'a M95 '411 il --- --;...--e-. .4, 1.e- • . - iiri -- ,,I,4t.e.4..,--v4i„. 44, , .1., agmuNmotningks- 40.10 1-7.- " -N 7„. i tr,„ , vkl", J klektri-k\l„ii-ke0n1;\ I 11111MIEMILIRTAMmoniloafg 4,114 flaw tilt fitWIS'ilF(Twri\ ; • EINIMEI"V"Vili 1111 ..1Plosi- In r .., i -I I liiii I liet■ ikkni , '" •■■•••mlatirrilEB Lk , , 1 lweriljell,,..r,111141==INJE1111111.1111, ' i .,.../ ----'1 011..\ .m.. ..,,,.= E it,,,„,,,a, \ t, .1,,,,,,, issigur■mpg 11111EMEREMPIA1M42"11/1"11C f*talgilidill • WNW St" • , 1111110111% /SA I. 1 siggills.,za .\New VII erAmilli.S.CEILM paeS, i ./Fai „11 ,, - 1410. IHNEiiiiige priliiiqt, ' . iltaill=frlier,ti -eire;Niirw cnrrilliv - - 4 .; ,17 . urr:itunri. • 111111Int \ IA N n:tillgri!'w eirjoin Elelivt& ./ v-mdr14, . 1....";.: .... - . LRI1N. artiritwatoN ilimuliffrazinrie"14 . ft.,. lima . ._ . , . .•3. aniv-a•-„-, --.4,4,,......3,rieltAde.4:mr._,,-mascsa.m•ermlikik. /Ts. &DIEM nilrillP f ...,,,_ sp... ,;,;,.., -.)■( ,„ var-----ii, gNN 111111 4!4\ • , l!.= at - _ -.1„:\z: ..,,_.,.. ., • . ....._ ........_•_ __ .4.70,_ iiii.,121,1„ A :.,.....i. ,...,.._ . ....„...,. •. 3,.•....,,, tie .. -,,, 4 isi _ op:. .. milollneirW■'IN \ , \ Ewe er ..)..,,,„.,.. A.t• •• -*ilk: ' 4 IMEligNIREINE FAO t \ ''‘NP.4=1 TE3R1 mi voi, 14 , .,-.4.2.-,,:,;.::.54,.-. . • .., ,. v - w rionnumure rig! k 2, \\4, - rjr• .. i ,,,,„.yvo:-. i',Vej's • !, .,,,,,,.* ' ' s'• • ._ ,-J,,),;,3i.A?.;-,,."-• - nr imord REENtikr_earmv, 7r..4,11iN kilt.. ifigilig. -- st......OA Ilaitlil El-1113111311Qtr -.... ..•...»—,,.- ,..,t.5.45:,?.;?,'V‘,(' 1 ItilleilWqi 51 1111141E11111111111glifigiiiiiiri 111P14 litil alMEIVNrw ... a 4 „ • , . ci ......muli ..•._juirvoli IIMINIIIII•1111111111Billei■MB its . hi, , m 1 311_MMiN,:--AMIALEMIIINIMIJNEwiliall 1"ffiras\ ingiffiltEL-034 - • ! ;,,,ti.- __,Iii---._ -..,:., ..„ .......4.,. • ...,.., -F-....- - -44.6 MIA a ima .....7,..,_,_... it 1 IN 1,',Vrrjr.lp.- •11 MN/WM iimiaralbai1111111111111111111111111911111M ';';'•v4gi'l• . ELGIN MITA/HEALTH CENTER •i1 i Flp PIMP • I.J.Arptii=t1li 47:-..::::.:.::::.% . liPlitairi ._ .ta." .......,.,:"....: :;!:•• --- i'lWrMili 1 k. :7.%IN OIN rig xx.-:=• PPli.■ A= I•------; . r.-------- , I ! 1 ,,,,,--- I 1 i ; 4 .,,.....:., • - '4:1'4 i .., , :' ii . lii L...i ••:,'.:r: .s..1 1 . qle • et-V..N"--/ .. ........... . , fr, !-.17,1 0, -_4 /' 1 l * 1� I ♦ ll rte. - 11 N — *Otad, r-r-7.T • .‘. ---- GAIL BORDEN ill LIBRARY 1 i 1:1 It C.N°61\ a, 41...... v IRATCR r i e I • • 7 A e,„ y HEMMENS APPE A' \.., . AUDITORIUM CO . T �� �k \ CIVIC CENTE ri. PLAZA 1 CI D '\ , \, t. 1 \ . • • l` .. z . 0 • \ sv.4;44 4 \ • : -\ I i Mso \\ • • . ` �s �. OS' + \ U.S Us , �. � ' OFFICE \V tojte• . v \ A r .4 . lar0 \ .\\. . gre\ . 04 ogt \\ 8 4. PROJECT IMPACTS The River Renaissance Phase I offers a panorama of beneficial impacts which serve a wide spectrum of residents, issues and KCCDAP priorities. * The project will eliminate the blighted and degraded area on Walton Island. * The project will improve safe usage of the site and make security patrolling easier and more effective. * It will improve public infrastructure by creating an easily accessible park site in an urban setting. * The Project encompasses myriad environmental/conservation issues from the stabilization of the shoreline to habitat restoration to nature appreciation/education programs which will be held on the Island. * Public open space will be improved as development of this under utilized site sparks a surge of community use. * Energy conservation will be realized as maintenance on the island is made more efficient and inappropriate usage and littering are eliminated. * Historic Preservation is a vital entity in the planning for the River Renaissance. Walton Island itself is an historic site surrounded by an urban and natural historic setting. The unique character of the Island and the proposed plans will help promote the community's historic character. * This project is the corner stone in the riverfront planning. It will build a public space, encourage further development of the downtown and focus the community's attention on the downtown thus creating a "sense of place or community". * It is the key contribution to the initial town center plans. 9 5. PROJECT FINANCING Provide information about source and amount of any non-KCCDAP funds used to finance the project (be as specific as possible) : The City of Elgin will contribute a minimum of $115 ,000 to the project' s first phase, and a minimum of $75, 000 to Phase II. More specific information will be submitted in September following the City Council review of the Capital Improvement Budget. The City will pay for all engineering design costs and at least $75 ,000 of the actual construction costs. This represents over 60% local leveraging. 29 10 6. PROJECT IMPLEMENTATION a. Project Readiness: The Design and Engineering Phase is ready to proceed immediately. The subsequent construction will occur immediately following Council approval of the project design. b. Implementation Schedule: List Related Activity From #2 Completion Milestone Project Summary Form Date 1. Engineering/Permit/Bid Process 3/92 2. Construction of Shoreline Stabilization 9/1/92 3. Island Improvements-Path, Activity Area 9/1/92 4. Habitat Restoration/Landscaping 9/30/92 5. Final Inspection/Project Completion 10/15/92 6. 7. 8. 30 11 6. Project Schedule - Cycle II Begin Completed Construction of Path Phase II 12/92 4/93 Lighting 12/92 5/93 Site Amenities 5/93 6/93 Interpretive Area/ Play Area 5/93 8/93 Landscaping/ Habitat Restoration 6/93 9/93 12 7. PUBLIC NOTICE a. Publication Date: *Attach certification b. Comments and Responses: 31 CO Certificate of Publication in the DAILY COURIER NEWS —" I STATE OF ILLINOIS u. E•15-91 COUNTY OF KANE LEGAL NOTICE CITY of ELGIN WE COUNTY COMMUNITY THE COPLEY PRESS, INC., DOES HEREBY CERTIFY: DEVELOPMENT ANO ASSISTANCE• PROGRAM ' That it is a corporation duly organized and existing under the laws of the State of Illinois; It Is the intention d the City d i Etpin to mutat up to 1150400 in That it is the publisher of the Daily Courier News, a secular newspaper printed and tun cycles for tundiaq a nq ssists • horn the ICCcOAP.The purposed published in the City of Elgin, in Kane County, Illinois. and of general circulation in said City, . this ptopct is the dwttopmsnt of• County and State; and in McHenry County and portions of Cook and DuPage Counties, and in the Genus City Renaissance same plus• other Cities in Kate County;and that it is a newspaper as defined iii"An Act to Revise the Law in I.The CJCy proposes to wNtlbup Y' �� at Nast 60S et the oostaraoaated Relation to Notices"— Ill. Revised Statutes, Chap. 100, Sections 1. 5 and 10. ; ,with this proisa. 1 Wicttert comments are Invlhxt con cooing aN ptopssed luau as, That a notice of which the annexed is a true copy has been regularly published in said Oration torn the pubes Persons. O 1l)E tirne(s) each �'� for primps, organizations.or paw 1 newspaper meat vendee ciistunp to tom • c mint en the proposed application succcsSive that the stand amid tier contitmers to. publication day of. . 19 �J Robin 0 Wdtn. Assistant City first ublication of said notice was on the Mt(+spsr,City of Ebb ,150 Dente` Court Elpii. k 60120, wNiltr 15 and the Iasi publication (hereof was on the _ day of , 19 I days Idllo . tqa Sptilicaeoo.of that the face of t in which each publication of said notice was printed was the same as the body �Oil MOM 043 ' .. I of type used in the classified advertising in the newspaper in which said publication was made: That said the Daily Courier News has been regularly published in said City,County and State for at least one year prior to the first publication of said notice. In WITNESS WHEREOF, said The Copley Press, Inc.. publisher as aforesaid, has exe- cuted.this Certificate of Pu ;cation by its Officer or Agent thereunto duly authorized this I !v -- day of t ‘.lyLIST . 191/ . I THE COP 'Y PRESS, INC. . gy �/_r. _ _ •. _ _ _ _. r�/ f Printer's Fee i V0 Paid . 19_ ' I No. /`�� Folio I 14 PROJECT EVALUATION SHEET (For Staff Use Only) APPLICANT: City of Elgin SPONSOR: PROJECT: River Renaissance - Phase I TOTAL COST: $190,000 KCCDAPREQUEST $75 ,000 I. PROJECT IMPACT POINTS Regional or Multi-Jurisdictional Impact (10-20) Contributes to Health and Safety (10-20) Environmental Protection (15) Energy Conservation (15) Historic Preservation (15) Contributes to Town Center (15) • Subtotal (100 pts. max) II. CONFORMANCE Conforms to County and Local Plans (15-20) Conforms to Either County or Local Plans (5-10) Demonstrates Long-Range Planning (1-10) Subtotal (30 pts. max) III. PROJECT FINANCING Financial Soundness (15) Local Leveraging of Funds Greater Than 50% of the Total (15) Subtotal (30 pts. max) IV. PERFORMANCE Never Been Funded (10) Good Performance (5) Poor Performance (0) Subtotal (10 pts. max) V. PROJECT READINESS (10 pts. max) TOTAL SCORE 10 15 TELEPHONE 708/695-6500 FAX 708/931-5610 E FOR HEARING IMPAIRED Oi TDO 708/831-5616 CITY OF ELGIN 15 0 DEXTER COURT ELGIN, ILLINOIS 60120-5555 August 16, 1991 Ms. Andrea Davis KCCDAP Coordinator Community Development Department County Government Center 719 Batavia Avenue Geneva, Illinois 60134 Dear Ms . Davis, Please accept this letter as documentation of the City of Elgin's commitment to the attached grant application for the River Renaissance - Phase I - Walton Island. • The City of Elgin is resolved to supporting this vital commu- nity project by sponsoring a grant application which antici- pates matching the Kane County grant of $150,000 ($75, 000 in Cycle I and $75,000 in Cycle II) with an estimated $190, 000 ($115,000 in Cycle I and at least $75,000 in Cycle II ) . The funds for this project will be reviewed by the City Coun- cil at the presentation of the City's Capital Improvement Program on September 7, 1991 . At this presentation the en- tire inventory of Center City/River Renaissance projects will given to the Council for their consideration. We respectfully request your assistance for the River Renais- sance - Phase I . S• I •ere l IOW • . -i e City Man=ger ei) INDIVIDUAL CIP PROJECT DETAIL 1 6 Project Identification Pro ect Location Department/Program - -; Center City ��.Y© �t — y Project Number j.- - _ CC2 �, , t9 . psi Project Name ` . � Walton Island Improvements '\ : ;. �ti� Spending to Date � "-I:7 �, 4•!" X000 . rte, •\\ Expenditure Schedule AU..VALUES IN THOUSANDS(000•) Prior 1997- 2002 Project 1 Type/Function Total x1992 :: 1993 1994 1995 1996 2001 2011 Total Design 40 40 1 Improvements 150 150 ' 300 0 ! 0 0 0 : Expenditure Total $40 $150 $150 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $340 Funding Schedule ALL VALUES IN THOUSANDS(0oos) Prior 't:� merit::: ' 1997- 2002- Project Source Total i `_: :4499 ::'!> 1993 1994 1995 I 1996 2001 2011 Total Operating Fund 40 40 Revolving Bonds 75 75 150 Kane County 75 75 150 0 0 0 Revenue Total $40 $150 $150 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $340 Misc. Description: The northern end of the island serves as a natural place for passive observation of the river and the upstream dam. The southern end will become focused as a children's play area. A path system will link the two halves and provide interpretive displays explaining river ecology. Additionally, the project provides for east bank stabilization to reduce erosion and preserve the river ecosystem. Justification: Currently the island is underused and has a poor image. The master plan calls for restoration of the island within the overall program of river related recreation and leisure activities. Coordination: Requires coordination with Parks and Recreation Department; linked to east bank stabilization project. Potential tinka•e with libra outh/environmental •r••rams as well as school's natural science programs. 17 • THE PARKS: WALTON ISLAND This island,created as a WPA project and completed in 1935,once provided a popular place to enjoy the river. Today,it has fallen out of favor and suffers from its lack of attention. It's"off the beaten track"location contributes to a widely held perception that it is unsafe. • Walton Island can and should play a vital role in the renaissance of the river. It is an essential resource and affords a relationship with die river that is unique. It provides opportunities to serve both passive and active recreational.needs as well as serving an educational role by providing an excellent point from which to ob- serve riverine ecology. The Master Plan recommends restoration of the island to its rightful place within an overall program of river related recreation and leisure activities. The northern end of the island serves as a natural place for passive observation of the river and the dam just upstream. The southern end is more active with a children's play area as a focal point The theme of this area should be river oriented. The path system which links the two halves of the island should provide interpretive displays explaining river ecology-its plant and animal life-as well as its important environmental role. Such an educational opportunity can be linked directly with the resources of the Library providing an unique classroom/natural laboratory relationship. Recommendations: •Walton Island should be restored as a part of a comprehensive river recreation program;this restoration should include: 1. Enhancement of the north portion of the island as a passive area; 2. An interpretive walk should be developed linking the two island segments: 3. A children's play area should be developed on the south portion with a river theme; 4. New bridges should be provided linking the island on the north to the library as an extension of the North Street corridor,and on the south as an extension of the Division Street corridor: • 5. The edges of the island should be stabilized using a natural"soft edge"combi- nation of large stones and riverine vegetation. I 1 ti t IN p • NA%), • . ‘..•' ,..,-0; ,,„.•t-rd% ■./ ••to. •••• u . • 0%, , : „.• ,, ....--,00.0...•-.,ex ,,,;‘,4-6,,,•-s" .. vi. 522'. I , • °1 ..-% , • __ „--.0.-16 -- --- , -- -- ...,,,, .,.... ,.--'' ... , - • . 1 „--. • if, "441- •>1' •1 .• ._ . .. _ ..• 4 agh-ri 441 ' a (1.(..■110 1.0( i ,1 4(C., ' Z. re 1 40,'''' .'. '. 4- - . •4.4 .. • ,AP° e I' ,•,.....lt.":.•). :•..• • 2.:..•.. . e,'- -- # e 0 • • •• '. e•-' fr 0 ,P".,. ''' . , ...., . „ ” ./• . it # o c() ):1 ,, ,. , , -• 0 . Af- da ..10 *an ' w • . , ., ...KQ. ; r ,( fer 8 5.1 , • ,',''. ., ..- I ,4 to L 1 g e• • 104.40 Iv toN. co ;lip, att....4 . ;,, z ,,i,?1°4c# i Lb 1 ..,."' , ; '" .1•0 OS • tr, 4.•••—- • ,•• ... .-- ' .0110.! - „,:,,z,,,,tc,.......t) lit • No 3g mil fp 4.„004451110_/-*V: • wil Ara I too • '• ,.1... .. ': . .....e. , •• 0 41) 4•••. ..... , 4` V.,•'• 7 '0):1, ' •Inlikiii. 5 gd° 6.' • ....4 \kst \ \\i, i.•` _„„411• ,.." to..< . t.............. 1 1 , .c - c.‘, •-• • ---) \ **Pre?: _, II ••• •..713 ..C.,.'s Z.:.••••••':..71. ,":.il• ill:1 1 ,i 114 • *- ......ago . .4°1:• ' 44/4.0. '7' ;°°A171.° 0 I • Alk .• -.'pl.P......4k. "V' • ' et) tsP \ .... r.i • • • OW••41AP•I'Ale I 7.'4 il ..... r , i • , 4,.... \ • ....,,... • • , p Oil .ii m --aai:iii.-tivsm 0 II I ••, ,‘ ,41.,.4- . , 4 1 . I .-, ,\\,\ Vit -4 .,,,,, . : 1 f .51., ,,,,„ , • Mil; - ', ‘.. 0 t,;1 , g ! . . ,. . it ---.. ...... ?iii. N , — . E 1 -(4.4.."4,..4. 1,14, #.18 oil W 4 I , ; . f0 ',ti ' ',-tV •:*;#.f# , . v , i ••li•.".:;`''.0*" '.•:. • : . ;', ::: I ril '••,..,..>t- -t,-, .‘ ''410,1th,„. .;.:',.17*..., ti 't0 '0 i 1 I 1 i! SI 5 e. - .\\ - , .-.,.. -,..- .,e4...... gi ■ , 0 • ,.„,,:opo, c.? 0 \ ,,,,, vi. ..41:4_ 0 Q.::i,1 Alt Pi 1 t1) ■4:1t / , qi> . ,‘k'''''%' l',••• Aolf1(:,WI:."f".6 "• sk• •••mkti 1 , . - %,b, 42,,S ‘• •.'sC 1T.:&••••A ,P.44!q••:.1.:t.r .. t)fj6 1 or••■•••, 1 ' "i• +TA;at 6 3 .iy.1i ...' \V% ti e '7.> ” ... : . .. :',' ''&:s:t•... • .--,. .•,..- . .... - ..•..A:.... .. -' •••:%.... i _._ . ___ ...- . -I Co — ''''"1 1.... MU a alli all MI ma MI Ill I CeMuUdy 19 RENAISSANCE OF THE RIVER The Physical Development Plan has as its central focus the reertentae.or al Os Center City to the Fox River. As wrong determinant of fans,a vial epos wok a distinct system of linkage...the Fox River is pivotal in detain the hours role of the Center City. Appropriately,it should become the Croat door for redevelopment and an tmkpee rearational resource providing not only opportunities for acdve recreation...u h as cycling and boating.but passive enjoyment as well. As a front door it will serve to introduce its users to the varied opportunities of the Center City-its businesses,its rich architecture,its history,and its culture. The planning diagram illustrates a framework for the river's renaissance which responds to several roles. The river provides a natural corridor linking neighbor- hoods north and south but also the districts that comprise the Center City. This is best accomplished by the full extension of the bike and pedestrian system along the river. In tandan with this role as a system of linkage is the river's focus as a sours for recreation. On the north side of the Center City a community park;at the center, civic and urban stages for concerts,festivals,markets and swilling,to the south a neighborhood park. • Y • I / t i HL1 ; 1 is # ; ,,g. ! -.....„..-...-.... :i.: : i - . ri , .r-------7/---. . . . ...,.,...t..:..., .. ,'-r,.._ I -..:-::- , :.:- - -1 ik - [ I . 1 r riLl7A1111 ji z . � i : T I . � D-... . .. ..„,,,,,.... 1 I ' ,.. - Air: nn\ .i, - =! NORTH FOZ Itl F //"1 I • v - - - 1 „ly N +e il— 11W vir. i'-!! !IIII:: IL:r -ter l� T�I'al ?: EINIE . crvic c�rvrr�R ■.v p 1( . �: , ■L, 1'i ■11; c)'n.O 't s\.--%, JI■ :�:�i !I�l�g �: V i �+ ►\a1 ■■ pi a .( =C III ♦%V*, . -• . ' ^ - rte a.�. lira :_,...1:-.-,-.' �'r�• '.�`��,V�. • \ -v" . _\`.iI 'f 1 :111 IN, Rif* -! LIE Sour .STATE ft '_ • . •, �•:�,:;; It � � . ♦. 1. CoMAIERcw. l� - �\:__.. .,...CORE] We _ e„. . :....4-. . _- ..„...„. .c,_. ..... 1 _____. -...,.. .,-,, \ .--_--_.,.. _ -e'■ 7;1,1.1104D' tillicl -.10:260: 1 tlhi, -. .-.---:::-- lii.N2W.IL: ', ."7;P$1 37F.T.IV 1 4 2 \.\\.. .-.N.OvS, 4!...... ,,-...-. it-3. IIII C), Ici\ : RC s -----\� ' i �SOUTX GROVE • ■ III lrsicilci_......\ .\ - : /" I \L .11 I of la__ , ..--.. 4 •.'0 I■ LU . ‘ \ cAiL )II . cin ________ ____.. . . • ,.,.:..._. .,.:„.. . M , Y.. D$ \---i . ..... _ ,,4C . IFigure 12. River Renaissance Plan 11 HUU-1Li- WU) U4 li! l i or CLU1IY/U1 I 1 11tr1'. rt1A P(V. 1 IUO0J13u1U r. uc 21 • ;.. El • in Area Historica Society t A TiX neat SuG August 12, 1991 City of Elgin 160 Dexter Court Elgin, IL 60120 Dear Sirs, The Elgin Area Historical Society strongly endorses your plan to renovate Walton island. This would continue a tradition begun in 1934 when Walton Island was created from a worthless mud flat covered with scrub brush. Over ten thousand cubic yards of gravel was dredged from the river bed to expand the island and raise it above flood level. In the Spring of 1935 it was seeded and landscaped with trees and shrubs. At one time a large concrete American flag designed by the well known Elgin sculptor Trygve Rovelstad was situated on the north end of the island facing the Kimball street bridge. It was lighted at night. Unfortunately, the currant undercut its foundations and it was removed in the late 1960s or early 70's. Renovated, the island could become a very attractive, useful facility for the public. The view from the bike-path south of the library is one of the most beautiful anywhere along the river. We are pleased to endorse this worthwhile project. Sincerely, George Albee, Director 2 2 r,,_• Elgin Public Museum in Lords Park 225 Grand Blvd. • Elgin, IL 60120-4278 • (708) 741-6655 August 8 , 1991 Clay Pearson City of Elgin 150 Dexter Court Elgin, IL 60120 Dear Clay, I 'm writing in regards to our conversation earlier today indicating the Elgin Public Museum's willingness to assist the City of Elgin in its effort to rehabilitate the downtown Walton Island site. It remains the Elgin Public Museum' s pleasure to provide the City of Elgin with natural site interpretive services and materials . As we've done with other sites , the Museum could assist by writing and developing interpretive nature brochures and signs and offer site specific programming by Museum educators . Also, we could conduct botanical and zoological surveys and native species research which could culminate in Site Specific Teacher's Guides similztr to the ones we are currently developing for Hawthorne Hills, Trout Park, Bluff Spring Fen, and Lords Park. I 've enclosed copies of the Elgin Bike Trail interpretive brochure we recently produced, an outline of our Teacher's Guide format , and some sample pages from the Hawthorne Hills Teacher Guide. My hope is that these will give you some idea of the types of services we would gladly provide. Nancy J . tpping Executive Director 23 August 15, 1991 MEMORANDUM TO: • Chief Gruber FROM: Deputy Chief Heine SUBJECT: Overview on Walton Island From a statistical perspective, Walton Island does not present the Elgin Police Department with any significant problems or challenges. In fact, only a handful of calls for service (14) has been received by the depart- ment during the 19 month period from January 1, 1990 through July 31, 1991. Further, these calls for service were all received during "warmer" weather months, namely March through September, with no calls for service whatsoever during the cold weather months of October through February. The majority of the calls deal with disorderly conduct and/or intoxicated indi- viduals, while only four (4) calla were of a serious nature (two (2) robber- ies, one (1) aggravated battery, and one (1) theft) . statistically, these totals represent extremely small percentages of the calls for service in the downtown area and are almost insignificant when compared to city-wide numbers. However, it is quite possible that the documented numbers of calls for service on Walton Island are low because of the proactive stance that the police department has been taking for years at this location. Frequent foot patrols are conducted, particularly on the Morning and Afternoon Watch- es, resulting in the identification and resolution of problems before the problem escalates to the point that a citizen's complaint is made. To their credit, Officers Fred Ufland and William Eggert have established personal goals for themselves in terms of proactively addressing Walton Island and its police challenges. In the past, Walton Island gained the reputation as a location for vagrants to congregate. Disorderly activities and the consumption of alcoholic beverages were commonplace. Some vagrants would spend the night on the Island, while others would leave, only to return the following day for a repent of the proceeding day's activities. Through the efforts of departmental foot patrols, and particularly those of Officers Ufland and Eggert, much of this activity either no longer exists or is significantly reduced from previously experienced levels. The statistical significance of these proactive efforts is that the number of calls for service on Walton Island would most certainly be substantially higher had these efforts not occurred. It is, of course, impossible to determine the number of complaints that are prevented by these proactive patrols. However, there is no question that the patrols have identified and rectified problems before they became citizen's complaints. 24 Chief Gruber August 15, 1991 PAGE TWO Things are better today on Walton Island than they were in the past. Part of the credit for this improvement goes to the police patrols detailed above, while factors such as better maintenance and local programs such as PADS (Public Action to Deliver Shelter) operated by local churches and the Salvation Army have also contributed to the improvement. Today, citizens on lunch breaks can be seen on occasion on the Island, enjoying its tran- quility during their break from work in the downtown area. Several years ago, such activity would not have occurred. In spite of the above-mentioned successes, there is still room for improve- ments. Specifically, adequate lighting on the Island would enhance securi- ty and safety during hours of darkness. Additional signage could be posted regarding the rules of this park relative to open hours, alcoholic beverage prohibitions, and dogs. Lastly, increased maintenance could further reduce problems by removing unsightly underbrush, thereby making the area safer and more visible to police motorized patrols. None of these improvements represent major commitments of dollars or resources and could seemingly be accomplished in a timely fashion. In summary, Walton Island does not present our department with significant police problems, probably because of a continuing proactive approach that has been in operation for some time. Things are better today for the citi- zenry, but there is room for improvement. In the meantime, proactive pa- trols shall continue. Much of the credit for improvements must go to Offi- cers Ufland and Eggert, as outlined above. If you determine that additional information is needed or you desire to discuss this topic further, please contact me. WAR:ks Afidyw44-4-7-. -AUG-12-91 MON 13:54 CITY OF ELGIN/CITY MGR. FAX NO. 1 7089:11 5b1u r. Liz 25 August 12, 1991 MEMORANDUM TO: Public Information Officer Clay Pearson Assist to City Manager FROM: Crime Analyst Diana Grubb,t -- Elgin Police Department SUBJECT: Walton Island Statistics Per your request, I compiled statistics regarding police service on Walton Island between January 1, 1990 through July 31, 1991 . The number of calls, both criminal and service in nature, received by the Elgin Police Department for the island near downtown referred to as Walton Island for the year of 1990 was 6. This year to date 8 calls have been received. The 1990 incidents reported to police occurred between April and September. The 1991 reported incidents occurred in March, April, June and July. The nature of these incidents range from strong arm robbery to service calls of animal complaints. Two robbery complaints were received in the above listed time frame. One theft was reported, also. An aggravated battery was committed on Walton Island in 1990. Several of the calls to this area were regarding disorderly conduct and intoxicated subjects. I have attached a map of the area studied for this report. In this near downtown area, 122 reports were made in 1990. Those occurring on Walton Island comprised 5% of this total. In 1991 to date, 178 calls have been reported in this area. 4% of these calls were for incidents occurring on Walton Island. One incident reported on Walton Island this year was a strong arm robbery. The victim in this incident was from Chicago, U. He had come to Elgin in order to fish on Walton Island. The suspect was apprehended in this incident. Should you need any further information or assistance, please contact me at extension 6027. • 1 t i j 1 : : .. .. ,. _ . _ - C03111fii"; (D[tilg 1 26 • 1 • I 1 . 1.gin Council praises 1 '; : .. • Center. City concepts • f : • . . . • • By Susan Wafts Throughout the presentation,Bal- ,K, 1 , . . STAFF WRITER -iou stressed that the plan will not LI(JOS fOr Egin caty council members ka be implemented overnight, but in • • ..... .. ,r. .. ... . their first look at the Center City .phases over the next 20 years. 1 -An •• live method of One of the first steps toward ,irov ts has won recognit 1 i downtown redevelopment plan • , • Wednesday.Though there was tit-. redevelopment was taken yester- • Fox River Water Reclamation i . de discussion of specifics,the ion- day when the city hired a new • downtown director. City Manager • The DuKane Valley Coon •nepts were praised. .. . . . . er , _ "T ces, he Proposal is excellent," LartY Rice said after walaberm goverrunent offi business g sot • - utIons in DuPage, Kane, • 1 Councilwoman Cheryl Popple said. 20 to 30 candidates and inter- ; — I s' • "You come om ai-1c.crtyslru.r.:wrr__ viewing a small group of finalists. counties,presented the aware , things everione sort of!mew,bunlift the position was offered and ac- i The group is "elf-Pmfes' cepted by an individual with rel. ganization" that deals with pr • I -;,. • no one ever put in writing." - area.- KIX Popple also said she was evant experience,rience* the fourcounty • pleased that the plan pointed At press time today,Rice would - Elgin's unprecedented gr( cre i : . . to the fact that the city is in not reveal the new downtown di-, five years resulted in a situ transi- , ' / . • reCtor's name or backgroimd. He. expenditures were needed fc • • ; 1 lion and needs to make a decision. ' i to take a big step into the future. - said he hoped the new person handle the new residents and 4 • ' urm very impressed ... you would be ready to start in two to Specifically, major intercep N i really thought of everything ex- 'three weeks* . • - 1 ing areas west and northwes eept the money part of it, and . Plans for economic develop., . to be enlarged and extender ously had been owned and nu • el ii . that's our part,"Popple said. 'meat focus on an entertainment and civic cultural district, rather •tarY district.::. ' Councilwoman Sue Moylan . : I praised the plan saying she espe- than the traditional reliance on re- -To pay for such work, 1 . . , daily bled tbe flexibility it allowed tail in the downtown area. needed voter approval to is ' 1 the City in terms of ......,...,...:,,. ,. In . Another major focus of the plan that approval was uncertain changing economic .. - -.. , ,..- is what -Ballou calls the "renais- for ways to continue to pros (( 1 I l : Moylan also said :-11e• ..'-z... if. of the river," reorienting n,alteniaive meths kvo for a int c , . ) -..the •dt3 to the Fox River and BY JanuarY 1990, ElfPn cit . 't. • : ' 1 .___ _provetnents to . .,.:., • ;414- taw :rt .to• airaw 'cook As oic onunended the use of the cit i 9, „ • ' Iii.hthlg and 0,-...-.-•id. 8 iv — ... . .watown area- • - to issue bonds for such impr ‘.4 el, 11 • • ' vise a system to spread the c( •. .(4...; change the whole atmosphere • "Henceforth, the river is the downtown. • front door and every decision First, though, the city nee . . ership of the sewer lines b "People will feel good about-it from now on will be made with. • ... They'll want to go there," that in mind," Mayor George Van; "'me an option. Months of 11( ,iik , .Moylan said. - De Voorde said. ' ..•transfer of ownership and a s: • , .11 'I • • t i II . , Redevelopment consultant Bob on' .1 '• l• . • Ballou presented his slide show inn iin•uue area of controversy ill the . - • • ir I •14j .. , . ,. documenting a"vision,.for..,__,__ P •.----_ —es recommendations to 1 , tire of downtown town Elgin f:rne r_u- down buildings in the Chicago tbe _and State streets area and create . . . . . . third time this week • ' • Monday be spoke to tbe Center a" atewa„.1_Parit." - - % - • " • :1---.. •t* !! i: II • • City Redevelopment Committee - • Bob Eaton, °viler rif the Red- • . , . that has been working on the plan . wood Inn, repeated his and other • . . ' • .2, • • I.. ! ) for more than a year, Tuesday ....,;,,...business "trranx:_nbjeclin.;212..t__t° • • . , • . was a public presentation for the a .^."46 their buildings. ‘-'`'Illm‘alaulau ' • community and weduesday after. John Walters said be was !•f .:': i noon was for the city cnal • •solutely convinced that those , • - , . .i ... • • - • • ;: .: .:, 1 "I think the future is very ex- buildings shall('come down. - • citing and I think the town is ups -• The council will diseiiss the plan to the challenge," Ballow said. . at its july 10 • • meeting. _ 4 1.4 1 ! ' • • • • ..,: ",elf rL -.x•rsatiraweiva6iia� • Y. 6< j • pounced that 77n. Watch Wont would resume publication. of the Beard of Education at•special merlon on May 2.It was Teaches'salaries were restored to 90 percent of their pre-De- derided that Principal W.L.Goble would be retired at the end of prelusion level.Nevertheless,there were many reminders that the the term and replaced by the principal of Abbott School.With- New Deal had not revived the economy.Population was station- out explanation,T.A.Larsen,the assistant principal,was to be 1, ary except at the Elgin State Hospital,where the number of pati- offered a contract as a teacher and department head. r ,•' ants had risen about eleven hundred since 1930.It was becoming These personnel changes ignored the intense loyalty of Elgin a poor farm, and many recovered patients could not be die- High School students for"T.A."Most of the student body re- ;'s charged because of the hard times.Only sixteen dwelling units i garded his shift as an insult after twenty-seven years of service to were erected in 1936,in contrast to the 388 built ten years earlier. I the school.Larsen became the unwilling and embarrassed center ' The year's only commercial construction was a building for a of the storm to come.By the time the board met in its next rep- small dairy operation.The number of telephones in the Elgin dis- lar session on May 7, the students were sufficiently aroused to trict had declined from 9,591 on January 1,1930,to 7,436 on Jan- gather by the hundreds around the high school building while .` -'. uary 1,1935. their representatives presented petitions. They were informed The scarcity of jobs attracted four mayoral candidates and that Larsen did not want the principalship and preferred the po• thirty-five hopefuls for the four commiseionershi in the mu nici- i sition of assistant,an answer which raised the i• Ps in question of why he t ,� pal primary.A record number of 13,500 went to the polls to nar- i was removed from that post. ti -.: • row the list.Myron M.Lehman,the incumbent mayor,won•re- The board agreed to reconsider its decision,but the students turn match with Earle R.Kelley in the final election.The turn- were not satisfied with the delay in action.Student strikers as- •;: out of 15,496 hes never been surpassed. 'ambled around eight the next morning in front of the high t ll, The Elgin office of the IWnois Emergency Relief Commission, school. An estimated twelve hundred of the fourteen hundred which included Dundee Township,reported•record caseload of students joined the walkout,despite pleas by Goble and Larsen :1 1,429 families in February.This was reduced about forty percent for•return to orderly school routine.Placards bearing such in- during the year,as many of the employables found jobs on WPA scriptions as"WE WANT LARSEN!"and"T.A.OR STRIKE" and PWA projects.6iie of these was the transformation of•use- were hoisted aloft as the students overflowed streets,sidewalks, ;'r less patch of mud and scrub brush in the Fox River into Walton and stores.The marchers crossed the river and proceeded to Ab- . •-`' Island. With the financial assistance of• $28,000 WPA grant, j butt School, and further demonstrations took place in front of ; 1.,� about eleven thousand cubic yards of gravel had been dredged the watch fa from the river bed to expand the surface area and build it well night, factory,in Fountain Square and in t demonstration Park.That A(? �. ght,about two thousand attended afire-light dernontration in :ti above the normal river level.Work was done with hand shovels •a parking lot near Maroon Field.A loud speaker system was used :i; ; and wheel barrows to give more men jobs.In the spring of 1935, to bring messages of support from parents and alumni,many of . '1 '.` the area was seeded and landscaped with trees and shrubbery. ' •"' Peal bery. whom shared their sons'and daughter'affection for Larsen. Y. •, Violence flared when striking dairy farmers stopped milk The strike continued the next day,and in the evening another "'� wagons in various parts of the city, unhitched horses, dumped crowd milled about the building and park while•citizens group and smashed milk bottles in the street,intimidating and attack- met with•student committee and the board.The board agreed lt, . .• ing drivers. . to retain Larsen,and students returned to class the next day. .�... r, The strike that caused the most comment,however,occurred The wire service publicity given to these events inspired students -9 at Elgin High School.Student restlessness with the approach of in other Illinois cities, and walkouts occurred at East Peoria, vacation is a perennial event,but it took an unusual turn in 1935. Champaign and Madison. xv, The spring that year was unseasonably warm,and it came earlier Several fraternal lodges and clubs succumbed during the De- than usual. Headlines and radio broadcasts brought news of �' ,` , gh predon yeah because of the attractions on radio and the inabil- � �y labor unrest and the congressional debates over the Wagner Act. ity of members to pay dues,but one new organisation quickly H A •h This climatic and social setting was stirred by a surprising action gained members.A local Townsend Club was formed in Novem- d P ✓'r 242 243 7 • asp IV .S.' . ^, ,�`. 41111P111111111‘.. C downtown area.The fountain,which had been removed in 1903, Hanover Township adjacent to the Milwaukee Road tracks.This tl f ' was restored to the square in 1967, • gift of women's garden became the site for the relocation of the Elgin Sweeper Company clubs.The old City Hall and The Station No.1 were razed for a in 1966 and•container plant for Sherwin-Williams in 1967. city parking lot in 1969; the site of the former post office was Recruitment activities were assumed by the city government in made into a park in 1971;and the old library was converted into 1962 with the establishment of the Elgin Industrial Development ' an addition to Ackenann's department store in 1970,the same Commission. Led by William Y. Barber, it worked with local I year Joseph Spies Company completed its new men's store.The firms on plans for expansion as well as continued the search for ' financial institutions were especially active in creating a fresh new employers.The first firms encouraged to move to Elgin were look.The That National Bank was transformed with a major re- Standard Pharmacal and Reim Products. Although the cam- modeling and expansion project in 1969.71; the Elgin National paign was later turned over to the Chamber of Commerce as its a! Bank erected a new building on Its site in 196667; and Hone Economic Development Commissom and puled by Ed Kelly, Federal Savings expanded into an enlarged new building in 1976 the Chamber's executive,the city government in 1976 began ism- 77.A new YWCA opened on its previous site in 1966.Some un- ing industrial revenue bonds to assist buiname in financing the sightly old structures were removed. A hangout for derelicts, section of plants.The largest of these,eight million dollars,was Heartbreak Hotel,and a tumultuous tavern,the Barrel House, issued for Flanders, • West German-based manufacturer of in- both across Douglas Avenue from the center,were razed in 1971. dustrial gear drives and power trammi•icns,which started pro- :,;.'r Ths Civic Center project reclaimed and beautified a portion of duction in 1981. . the riverfront.An attractive new bridge,built with funds secured Competition with other cities for new industry P> by a campaign initiated by Larkin High School students,con- tense, but Elgin succeeded in nuetry gas been in- .,R'. � netted the east bank to Walton Island.Especially appealing to ployd persons in manufactruring�,.., 1970 and While s;�4'.t downtown merchants was the land cleared for parking.In addl- this sector declined in the nation as a whole from twenty-seven that to the 79 spaces made available at the site of the old City percent to twenty-one percent,Elgin gained from thirty-two per- Hall and fire station,118 space were opened up north of the 8- cent to thirty-six permit.This increase occurred despite the de. ,,+ ^ ' briery and 330 at the northwest corner of Douglas and Highland parturs of some major firms,such as Fleaonia in 1961,McGraw- °t.t Avenues. Edison in 1965,Elgin Softener in 1966 and Elgin Manufacturing 1'";.: Bolstered by shopping dollars from the tri•village to the east in 1970. .',. , . and the city's population growth, Elgin's retail sales between Most of the new plants were constructed on the wet side.The ,:,; ' 1963 and 1971 increased 120 percent,in comparison with a gain of Burnidge Brothers Industrial Park,•260-acre its at the south- y 66 percent for the Chicago metropolitan area as a whole.Elgin's west corner of McLean Boulevard and the U.S.20 Bypass,was .1 1970 salsa tax receipts per capita were$30.10,far higher than the started in 196142.Development began on the Miller-Davis con- 1 A metropolitan average of$21.66. The bright new day would be parry complex,southwest of the Tollway and Illinois 31,in 1968- :,I clouded by regional malls about to appear on the horizon. 69.Elgin Oaks,a commercial and industrial park on the north- west corner of the latter intersection,was opened in 1974. + . 3.A Diversified Economy The city's industrial base has become highly diversified in an The declining fortunes of the Elgin National Watch Company era of plastics, electronics and computer-u mtrolled production. ,`, stimulated a drive to attract new industry.Elgin could offer a lo- There is•roughly fifty-fifty split between durable and non-dun- ''•,'';i cation along the to/bray,close access to O'Hare Airport,an abun- hie light industries, a factor which has eased the problem of .-"';: dance of vacant land,expandable sewer and water facilities,the unemployment during recessions.No firm employs more than• educational and training services T vic s of Elgin Community College thawed. e largest manufactures are Simpson Electric,C-R 4. ' and a large pool of skilled and semi-skilled workers.The search Industries(formerly Chicago Rawhide),Shakeproof Division of began with the formation of the Elgin Industrial Development Illinois Tool Works,U.S.Can,David C.Cook Publishing,Woo- ,.''.. Company in 1967,when private investors purchased a fern in druff&Edwards and Elgin Sweeper. `:rsr 292 I 293 IV :•. . • . :3 . ,, . , ..... • .. • .. .. ..... . . .. ... ,_ . .. — .-, 1 i•-•-". ---------- -- - i • • 1 . - 29 .,ki..0 i• . 1 +. . ! . - - ...• - . . .- j; . .' • . crawitx- 6,1Litgt i•:,-.' i, 1 , Elgin Council praises . , , :- • 11 i : • *Center City concepts i: ., i. ... 1. I . . . . • • . By Susan White • Throughout the presentation,Bal- i.K v •AA i i ! • . : ; • STAFF WRITER -iou stressed that the plan will not :. U US for ,_____ . - Elgin City council members got be implemented overnight, but in ,o.,:.•,: . . . • . theiThist-i;ok at the center cIi") .phases over the next 20 years. ! -An :innovative method.of 1 1• . i 1 " downtown redevelopment plan One of the first steps toward ■-provements has won r 'tt Wednesday. Though there Was lit-- redevelopment was taken Yester- day when the city ? Fox River Water Reclamation , de-discussion of sPecifics.the ann hired a new ... ' 'The DuKane Valley CODIK -eents were nraisad_,, .. - downtown director. City Manager ! government offices, business . '. . Vibe or`o-p-o-sii-is excellent," Larry Rice said after considering atitutions in DuPage, Kane. I councilwoman chetyi poppie said. 20 to 30 candidates and inter- , . . . nes- ,presented the award "You come out and say in writing *wing a small group of fimilsts• 1- • The • things everyone sort of imew,but the posit' ion was offered and ac- i . e.grc;,°P is a sat-fin:les' Illt • ' ' . eepted by an individual with rel. . ganization that deals with pi-, • 1 -- ; i 1 ', no one ever put in writing." . the four-county area. Popple also said she was evant experience, pleased that the plan .pointed to . At press time today,Rice would . ' Elgin's unprecedented gro • the fact that the city is in transi, .not reveal the new downtown di-, five years resulted in a situa i : 1 t lion and needs to make a decision. said be name or background. He, expenditures were needed fo to take a big step into the future. hoped the new person handle the new residents and i start in two to. Specifically,major intercept "I'm very impressed •••.you would be ready to . areas. - mg west and northwes t - • really thought of everything ex- -three weeks' . . . cept the money part of it,-and ; Plans for economic develop- •to be enlarged and extended meat focus on an entertainment ously had been owned and•ma and civic cultural district, rather •tarYTodisptraicty for such work, t that's our part,"Popple said. Councilwoman Sue Moylan 1 e t: ■ praised the plan saying she than the traditional reliance on re- • Iliq 7 daily hied the flexibility it allowed tail in the downtown area. needed voter approval to is -:. i li,'.• i Another major focus of the plan that approval was uncertain, ' the tnYgineeonomtermska...---,-:'. b..,::;;:. 42.-ig.what -Raw calls the "renais- for ways to continue to pros. Moylan also said .4e 7.,:.):.4 sante of the Tiver,•• reorientin- g through an,alternative methoc (1. • ll : . inied for a ini ,__.,• --..-•••fdiii. lltil c."/.to :the Fox River and Hy January 7.990, Elgin cit! 1 -_provements 40 . .1.. , . - ;tijili lbw it Ic• • ' " P- P* eu ac onunended the use of the cit! V l ' 161 ' V. ' * . z, ! • tstiting and jandsra ,i• ,,,, - ... •. •wntown SIM _._ .., . - to issue bonds for such impr( .. . vise a system to spread the cc . change the whole atmosphere "Henceforth, the river is the • ':d. • downtown. • • . . front door and every decision First, though, the city nee 'People will feel good about-it from now on will be made with ershiP.. ..„4,,nthtlrine seZernrith,line:,,bt . . They'll want to go there," that in mind," Mayor George Van.!.tranw"Ife"-roTo—wneia-hip-and-a-63 .• ii ‘, •• Moylan said. . - De Voorde said. • ' • • • Redevelopment consultant Bob One area of controversy in the Bane° presented his slide show plan area recommendations . .1 . T. 1 ,. , documenting a"vision"for the fu- down buildings in the(Nag : f • _OS ii;1; ; .,I ;: 1 i . tire of downtown Elgin for the _and state streets and or third time fhb week . ' a" teway park." . • Monday he spoke to the Center ga ! ' II ; I 1„ -i City Redevelopment• Conithittee 7 - Bth Eat°11. °waer a the Red" . . . .. . 11 :111 i that has been working on thiplaD 1 wood Inn, rePeated his and other - • I. . • , -.. it I for more than a year, Tuesday businessramina thpirmiLenners.buildings. - , 1 • I:• i , tw:.stha le xichaneng7taBanoution fors:: itt---pits jidy-- :eeting.was. --; community and Wednesday after- inhn Walters said be was net ab" '... 1 4:i . noon was for the city.couna. • •solutely convinced that those '' ' . P i' •"I think the future is very ex- bullrings amid come down. -• • IL #' II :,:7 . citing and /think the town is up. The counql will discuss the plan 30 Environmental ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT Assessment Checklist 1989-1990 CDBG PROGRAM page t FIFTEENTH YEAR Public Facilities and Improvements Project Name and Identification No. (Walton Island Improvement) 1 2 3 4 6 6 7 t4 v. 4, vi N�.e y! �' Source or Documentadon Et I cae r at (Note date of contact or e page reference) o �` Additional material may be Impact Categories ? 4 4"44 r e e attached. Land Development • Conformance With i Comprehensive Data Sources : 1 ,2 ,3, 5 ,6 , 11 ,15 ,23 , Plans and Zoning X M3, M5 , M7 , M14 Compatibility and U 1 2 3 5 6 11 15 16 2 0 2 2 2 3 2 6 rban lm ct ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' 411 pa X 27 , 28 , 32 , 141 , M2 , M3 , 115 , M6 , M7 , M10 , M19 Slope 20 , Ml , M11 , M12 , M13 , 2122 , Aerial Photo and Walton Island X Topo.Map Erosion 1 " 20 ,26 Ml , M11 , M12 M13 M22 X Aerial Photo and Walton sland Topo, Map Soil Suitability X • #19 , 20 Hazards and Nuisances.Including Site Safety X #2 , 3 , 7 , 16 , 31 Energy Consumption X N/A Noise Effects of Ambient -- - - - - Noise on Project and . . Contribution to Com- munity Noise Levels X #2 6 , 2 8 411 27