Ronan Park

transforming a park into a community hub to activate the lawrence avenue gateway to albany park and the river

The Ronan Park project will transform an existing park at Lawrence Avenue and the Chicago River into a vibrant destination in Albany Park, a diverse neighborhood on Chicago's north side.

Driven by enthusiastic community feedback, the new design draws visitors into an iconic riverfront destination featuring a performance pavilion, with a goal of spurring equitable investment along Lawrence Avenue and support for local businesses.

The Ronan Park redesign features improvements in infrastructure, aesthetics, and accessibility, with a special focus on improving operations at the adjacent Global Garden Refugee Training Farm. Pedestrian and bicycle access and safety was integral to the revitalization of the park, with axial pathways leading to a central pavilion, which will host performances and community events.

Along the park's pathways, native trees and plants will flourish, providing nourishment for wildlife and beauty in all seasons. Additionally, the park includes an overlook platform, offering views of the Chicago River and space to relax in a natural setting. The integration of permeable paving in the plaza contributes to stormwater management and helps mitigate flooding at a historic site that was once a Chicago Pumping Station and Auxillary Outlet Sewer.

Location
Chicago, IL

Type
Parks and recreation

Size
4.2 Acres