Forest Park Beach Pathway Project

Fundraising in underway to re-imagine and build a safe and beautiful pathway at Forest Park Beach that residents and families will enjoy for years to come.

The Forest Park Beach Pathway Project is providing funding for construction of a wooden pathway which will extend from the upper parking lot to the playground at the beach, offering beautiful views of Lake Michigan.

The City has committed $1.3 million to the Forest Park Beach Pathway Project and fundraising is underway to raise an additional $1.5 million from private donors. Thanks to a generous lead donation from Diana & David Moore, as well as significant individual contributions, we are more than halfway to our goal!

Watch the video below for a virtual tour of the ADA-accessible and stroller-friendly boardwalk the Forest Park Beach Pathway Project plans to make a reality!

View the brochure.

A BRIEF HISTORY

  • The wooden boardwalk at the south end of Forest Park Beach opened in 1987.
  • In 2018, the boardwalk was closed due to deterioration and removed. Recreation staff and community stakeholders met at the South Pavilion and shared their thoughts and ideas for replacing the boardwalk.
  • 2019: Due to damage from storms and flooding, the focus shifted to the North Beach Access Road and Bluff Restoration.
  • 2022: Plans and proposed costs submitted for the new pathway design.
  • 2023: Fundraising is underway to rebuild and re-imagine the boardwalk.

 
THE IDEA

  • This project presents a unique opportunity to provide a new pathway that is safe, functional, ADA compliant, and a beautiful asset to Forest Park Beach.
  • With support from private donors and the City of Lake Forest, the community will enjoy this enhancement to the bluff for generations to come.

 
THE PURPOSE

  • Walking access between Forest Park bluff and the beach.
  • ADA-compliant access for persons with disabilities.
  • Easy access for strollers, wagons, etc.

 
THE DETAILS

  • The construction materials are wood and steel.
  • Landscaping will complement and carry the aesthetic of Forest Park Beach.
  • The pathway will start at the upper south parking lot and end at the playground.
  • There will be two overlooks to rest and enjoy the view.

 
WAYS TO DONATE
Donations of any amount are welcome and appreciated!
Mail: Mail your donation (payable to The Friends of Lake Forest Parks & Recreation Foundation) to 400 Hastings Rd, Lake Forest, IL 60045.
Online: Donate now!

FUNDRAISING TEAM
Friends of Lake Forest Parks & Recreation Foundation

Fundraising Committee:

  • Rick Amos
  • Kendall Davis
  • Nicole Fabiano-Oertel
  • Pat Hoch
  • PJ O'Neil

FriendsLFPR@cityoflakeforest.com

Parks & Recreation Staff:


For more information, visit the project webpage on the Lake Forest Parks & Recreation website.

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