Chicago Bay in downtown Hovland is one of many glorious gems along the North Shore. It is unique in that it still boasts the presence of a dock built in the early 1900s. I believe this to be the last of these historic commercial lifelines. The North Shore Scenic Design Council (NSSDC) in concert with the Arrowhead Regional Development Commission (ARDC) and endorsed by the Cook County Historical Society are working to promote the improvement of the shoreline adjacent to this dock along the Scenic Byway corridor.
What a great opportunity for this historic preservation and enhancement. The North Shore Scenic Drive has been designated as an All- American Road. This is the highest designation possible as awarded by the Federal Highway Administration. The office of the Secretary of Transportation makes this distinctions based on outstanding scenic, historic, cultural, natural, recreational or archaeological qualities. To date there are only 29 All- American Roads designated in the whole country.
This proposed improvement affects more than just the people of Cook County. It contributes to the Scenic Drive as a whole.
In developing these plans, I expect these fine organizations will face unforeseen obstacles. Designing a gourmet restaurant at the end of the dock will certainly be a challenge. Hopefully, traffic issues will be handled by wider roads and additional lanes. Traffic lights could be installed at each end of Chicago Bay Road. Perhaps a parking ramp could be considered? These modifications to the current infrastructure would pave the way for the addition of a McDonald’s and the inevitable Hovland Wal-Mart.
Stephen Jacobsen
Family resident of Chicago Bay since 1888
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