Credit: Shanthanu Bhardwaj
Most folks in Chicago think of an afternoon picnic, a leisurely stroll or a day of fishing as lakefront, rather than riverfront, activities.
When talking about the rivers with your neighbor or coworkers, you’re likely to encounter a perception that they are polluted and not attractive or pleasant to visit. While there is a growing community that frequents the rivers—from kayakers and rowers to birders and naturalists—many of Chicagoland’s residents continue to look outside the city for interaction with natural assets.
In spite of this negative perception, there is great potential in our river system. When Great Rivers Chicago surveyed more than 3,700 local residents and business owners, we found overwhelming agreement that our rivers should be cleaner, healthier places—not only for people but also for plants and animals. Continue reading to learn how water quality will be a key part of the Great Rivers Chicago vision to make our waterways a place where people will want to spend time. >>