Located just west of downtown Plainfield, IL, the Lower DuPage River Stream Restoration project revitalizes a one-mile stretch of river between East and West Electric Parks. Once bustling entertainment sites, these parks now offer public amenities like walking paths, dog parks, an ice rink, skiing trails, and fishing areas. This project represents the first phase of a broader, multi-phase effort to beautify and improve accessibility along the riverfront.

Nature-based Solutions

• Habitat restoration: Constructed in-stream rock features and installed coarse woody structures to foster aquatic life.
• Water quality improvements: Reduced sedimentation and nutrient input by improving bank stability and planting native riparian buffers.
• Stormwater management: Integrated riparian swales to provide compensatory storage while minimizing flood risks.
• Aesthetic revitalization: Enhanced the natural beauty of the site with native plantings and ornamental stone outcroppings

Community Impact

This restoration supports a vibrant, connected ecosystem and invites the community to experience nature in a healthier, more engaging riverfront environment. By combining ecological engineering with community-focused design, this project exemplifies how nature-based solutions create lasting public value.

Ongoing Monitoring and Management

RES is providing long-term maintenance and assessment of the site’s vegetation, hydrology, and ecological health.