CHICAGO (WLS) — There has been an announcement about a significant development in the local effort to protect the historic limestone steps of Promontory Point on Chicago’s South Side.
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The Promontory Point Conservancy, located in Burnham Park, released new engineering studies on Tuesday and a structure report.
The reports detail plans on how best to preserve the Point’s limestone block, stepped stone, revetment and promenade.
Reports found the iconic limestone is still protecting the lakefront and can be preserved.
“All three reports agree the limestone has not failed and can be retained and repaired,” Jorge Sanchez with the Promontory Point Conservancy said.
Those supporting this cause aim to avoid potential future renovations at the Point that could lead to the removal of the distinctive limestone, being replaced by concrete, which is currently used along much of the city’s shoreline.
“The Point has not failed. Our government has failed us,” Former Alderwoman Leslie Harrison said.
Springfield recently passed a resolution in support of community preservation.
State Senator Robert Peters sponsored it, saying the Point is a vital part of the community.
“This is about political will,” Peters said. “It’s cheaper and it’s easier.”
The organization will now present their plans for preservation to the US Army Corps of Engineers, the Chicago Dept. of Transportation, and the Chicago Park District with the hope that the city will adopt the conservancy’s proposed designs.
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