71st Street Streetscape Improvements

The 71st Street Master Plan Study analyzed existing conditions of the corridor with the objective of providing a detailed master plan for its redevelopment. The master plan looked at the entire project corridor as it relates to adjacent neighborhoods and the overall context of South Chicago.

Located within Chicago’s historic South Shore neighborhood, the study area ran along the 110-foot right-of-way between the Chicago Skyway Expressway and the South Shore Cultural Center. The proposed improvements comprised of new sidewalk, parking lane and a single drive lane in both directions.

GRAEF developed guidelines of the streetscape design elements and improvements within the study area. The master plan proposed upgrades to the roadway including two travel lanes, parallel parking on each side, and controlled intersections at the rail crossings to improve pedestrian safety. The plan also included the development of neighborhood gateways, thematic neighborhood identity monuments and a pocket park adjacent to the South Shore Cultural Center.