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The site was completely redeveloped from its former “deteriorated wetland” sod farm status to an environmental jewel, including sedimentation basins, 60 acres of wetlands, flood control of over 100 acre feet of additional storage, a downstream storm sewer system, pathways, passive recreational areas, a golf driving range, parking, and other amenities.
The eastern and central portions of the park have been developed to include soccer, football and baseball/softball fields, parking for 1,200 cars, restrooms, landscaping, athletic field lighting, and smaller additional wetland areas. GHA's services included feasibility assessment, agency coordination, planning, preliminary and final design, construction observation, and permits from the IDNR, the IEPA, IDOT, and the City of Crystal Lake.
Some challenges were encountered during the project. Soils on this site were particularly light and prone to floating. Determining a construction sequence and developing a reasonable set of bid and schedule requirements were paramount. In addition, the public was wary, given the history of flooding, sediment into the Crystal Lake, and general distrust of wetland projects.
GHA resolved all of the challenges and now the site is complete and operational, resulting in a 400+ acre recreational asset, and dramatic improvements in the water quality of Crystal Lake, both measurable and observable to the many boaters and swimmers. |
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