There are many parks in Chicago and each of them has its history. Millennium Park deserves special attention as it is considered one of the best such places. Here, one can have a good rest from the city bustle and enjoy nature according to chicagoname.com.
Construction and opening of the park
Millennium Park is the largest park in the world, located on the roof of a building that once housed a parking lot and railroad tracks. Historically, a railway line passed through the territory of this park. For 6 years, the city authorities turned the industrial zone into an oasis, which combined unique natural and architectural expositions and cozy picturesque places.
Its history dates back to 1835. Grant Park, which includes Millennium Park, was founded in 1835, almost simultaneously with the granting of city status to Chicago. Despite the fact that at that time the population was only 4,000 people, citizens were against the development of commercial buildings. They reserved this area as a public space belonging to the city.
In 1852, the railway company received the right to run a transit line on the territory of the park. Soon, they built a breakwater in the park lake. In 1871, after the Great Fire, the territory of the park turned into an unkempt warehouse area. Since then, Grant Park has been partially reconstructed and the current site of Millennium Park was a parking lot. Only in 1997, a decision was made to turn it into a park.
In 1997, large-scale construction began, which was planned to be completed within 3 years. However, the park was opened in 2004. A huge area of 9.9 hectares was allocated for it. A lot of money was invested in the reorganization of the space. The initial project was allocated $150 million. In the end, this amount increased several times and reached $475 million. The city paid only half and the rest was invested by various private enterprises.
As a result, the construction of the park had a positive effect on the ecological situation in the city and improved traffic junctions.
What makes Millennium Park unique?
This place is beautiful because absolutely all visitors with different interests and habits can find activities corresponding to their tastes here.
Millennium Park has won many awards for its unique design and perfect landscape. The park is operated daily. It employs 53 people. During peak seasons, the number of employees reaches 257 people.
Volunteers are actively engaged in landscaping the territory. The Grant Park Council organizes tree planting days. Fairmont Chicago Hotel is engaged in tree care and cleaning of the territory.
Despite the large number of artificial surfaces on the territory of the park and various cultural programs, it still remains a green oasis in the heart of Chicago. Initially, it was conceived as a way to improve the overall ecological situation in the city. This desire is clearly visible in the principles of exploitation.
The main development strategy includes the following directions:
- reuse of materials and alternative energy sources
- use of storm drain
- installation of smart trash cans
- plant care
- development of a waste recycling program.
The main natural attraction of Millennium Park is Lurie Garden. It has more than 222 species of plants, many trees and shrubs. The main components of the garden are the palette of light and dark. The dark part of the garden was created from trees, plants and flowers that love the shade. They symbolize the history of the city, when Chicago had to go through hard times. The light palette represents open areas planted with flowers and plants that love the sun. This part symbolizes the bright future of the city.
Therefore, if you want to relax, enjoy the singing of birds and picturesque landscapes, don’t hesitate to visit Millennium Park.
