Montrose Beach graphic by Moss architecture design build
We have a once in a generation chance to make things so much better for the millions of landbirds, shorebirds, waterfowl, etc. that use our lakefront. They are counting on you to speak for them.
North DuSable Lakeshore Drive is going to undergo some very big changes. View the plans here.
As we know, some of the city’s prime bird habitat is along the lakefront. Chicago Bird Alliance collected ideas about how to improve the area for birds and how to minimize disruptions to bird habitat. These ideas were delivered to the US Fish and Wildlife Service, who is on the planning team.
Our recommendations:
Landscaping that supports native birds, including at least one new bird sanctuary, all with diverse plant structure (canopy, understory, shrubs and ground cover), many areas of plant density and good plant species diversity
Preservation of specific areas, i.e., Montrose Beach, Jarvis Bird Sanctuary, etc.
Creation of migratory bird habitat as a buffer between the lakefront and dangerous buildings
Creation of shorebird habitat on islands, if possible