The Chicago Riverwalk: urban sustainability lessons

Purpose This paper reviews, summarizes and pieces together scattered information on the newly completed Chicago Riverwalk in Chicago, Illinois. It explains the design process that transformed an outmoded infrastructure and disused river banks into an attractive gathering civic space, a linear urban park and a functional transportation corridor. Design/methodology/approach Literature review. Findings Overall, the paper reports on one of the latest projects in Chicago that symbolizes the city's long history and earnest commitment to urban sustainability. Research limitations/implications The paper identifies key urban sustainability lessons that are transferable to other cities. Originality/value It is the first paper that stitches together scattered information on the topic.