Redefine the Drive |

Case Study

Redefine the Drive

Overview

Baird evaluated the existing coastal conditions and developed conceptual alternatives for shoreline improvements along a six mile stretch of Chicago waterfront. The project improves public recreation amenities, shoreline protection and reduces roadway flooding from Lake Michigan storms.

Project Highlights

Baird is the coastal planning expert for an IDOT/CDOT Phase I Feasibility Study to design significant shoreline improvements along six miles of North Lake Shore Drive, extending from East Grand Avenue to West Hollywood Avenue. Baird developed alternatives for a public park and beach system between Oak Street and West Fullerton Parkway to: facilitate the proposed realignment of North Lake Shore Drive; expand trail systems; reduce flooding, and to improve stormwater management.

Baird worked closely with the primary stakeholders on the project, including IDOT, CDOT, IDNR, IEPA, USACE – Chicago District and Chicago Park District. Services Provided:

Data collection (topographic and bathymetric surveys, installation of ADCP units, sediment analysis).
Detailed computer modeling analysis (wind waves, sediment transport, nearshore circulation/beach water quality) to determine the geometry of the coastal structures and pocket beach system to achieve structural stability and adequate circulation.
Flooding analysis and remediation. Frequent winter Lake Shore Drive flooding occurs and results in road closings. The study will consider various drainage scenarios to minimize flooding. Cost effective cross-sections and landscaped berms will be evaluated to reduce and control flooding.
Development and selection of the preferred alternatives. The preferred plan will focus on coastal improvements but also integrate landscaping, bike paths and pedestrian paths, as well as beach parking. A new beach at Oak Street and North Avenue will be provided, and the feasibility of new, additional beaches will be evaluated.
Extensive coordination with the local stakeholders and public participation.
Baird will perform a key role in the project Value Engineering study.

Project Challenges:

Educating project stakeholders from diverse technical backgrounds about shoreline protection requirements (elevations and setbacks) requires effective communication of complex physical processes.

Project Solutions:

Baird developed animations using a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) model to depict the level of expected shoreline protection from wave overtopping and flooding for various conceptual shoreline cross sections, which was an effective means of communication to stakeholders.

Explore Other Case Studies

Whiting Lakefront Park
Whiting, IN, USA

An assessment of storm damage to a rubble mound revetment protecting a park in Whiting, IN, along with the design and construction of emergency repair works and preliminary design development for comprehensive rehabilitation works for the structure.

View Full Case Study
Whitesand First Nation Shoreline Stabilization
Lake Nipigon, ON, Canada

Baird was retained to complete the planning, design and construction services to protect 1,400 metres of eroding shoreline on Whitesand First Nation traditional land, located on the north shore of Lake Nipigon. The design consisted of an armour stone revetment and slope stabilization.

View Full Case Study