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Riverwalk's next phase
The Naperville Riverwalk Commission is endorsing a $2.1 million design plan for Fredenhagen Park, the next major addition to the popular riverfront path.
The concept approved Wednesday calls for a fountain surrounded by brick walkways, an arbor, lawns and plantings. The park, located on the old Cock Robin restaurant site along Washington Street, also could include a building with restrooms and storage space.
The commission hopes to meet with the city council to present the concept. It also will meet with the Naperville Park District board, which shares responsibility with the city for the Riverwalk.
The design likely will undergo changes before construction begins next spring.
"There's a long way to go before it becomes reality," said Councilman Kevin Gallaher, who also sits on the Riverwalk Commission. "Funding is going to be an issue that has to be talked about."
Construction costs are estimated at $1.75 million, with another $351,000 in design and engineering fees. Who will bear those costs still must be determined, though a portion will come from donations.
Noting the park's location and the site's history, commissioners said they want to build something special.
The land was donated to the city by Rita Harvard and Ted Fredenhagen in honor of their parents, Walter and Grace Fredenhagen, who opened an ice cream parlor on the site in 1931.
The property's history inspired one of the more whimsical suggestions for the park: Landscape architects designed a fountain based on Cock Robin's trademark square scoops of ice cream, placed in a giant dish with a spoon.
"I think it's a most intriguing and creative concept," commission member Frank Allston said. "Depending on the practicality of it, I'm all for it. I think it's great."
Designs also include the option for a more traditional fountain. On the Washington Street edge of the park, the design calls for a circular plaza with a large sign doubling as a clock tower.
"It's certainly more formal and more urban than the rest of the Riverwalk, which is more pastoral and rolling," landscape architect David Frigo said.
Because this park is so close to the business district and will serve as a gateway to downtown, the Riverwalk Commission chose a more formal design. The characteristic shepherd's crook lights and other features will ensure Fredenhagen Park fits with the Riverwalk, Frigo said.
In addition to winning approval from the city council and park board, the commission still needs to acquire storm water permits from DuPage County. No work can begin until the Cock Robin building is demolished. |
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