An application has been received by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources for a permit authorizing re-watering of a section of the Illinois and Michigan Canal in Ottawa, Illinois. Here are some thoughts on the subject: There are numerous drawbacks to the proposed re-watering of a portion of the Illinois and Michigan Canal in Ottawa, Illinois that need to be considered carefully. While it is certainly true that Ottawa has a rich history that should be shared with all interested parties, it is definitely debatable whether re-watering a portion of the Illinois and Michigan Canal is the wisest way to share this town’s story with the world. The proposed project involves reshaping the canal, coating it with an impermeable liner, constructing earthen embankments, installing pumping and drainage systems, and more. All of this will take a lot of time and a lot of money. Residents have reason to be concerned not only about the cost of completing this proposed project but also about the continuous expense of maintaining it. The idea is to return this portion of the Illinois and Michigan Canal to its original, historical shape in the hope of attracting tourists, but there is no guarantee of a return on this significant investment. Re-watering the Illinois and Michigan Canal with the hope of attracting tourists is not a new concept. The nearby town of LaSalle, Illinois already offers tours of a water-filled section of the Illinois and Michigan Canal. These tours are located in the heart of downtown LaSalle, placing tourists near parking, dining, and shopping venues; Ottawa’s proposed re-watering site is located predominantly in a residential area that lacks the necessary accommodations for tourists. The legitimate tourism potential of this proposed venture surely warrants much closer inspection. The proposed site for re-watering the Illinois and Michigan Canal runs along a significant number of residential properties. This project would directly affect the many families living beside and around the Illinois and Michigan Canal. It would bring more automotive and pedestrian traffic directly into their quiet neighborhoods, disrupting their lives. This water would also attract other undesired visitors, including mosquitoes and geese. The needs of the people living in this town must be placed before the envisaged desires of hypothetical visitors. This project would also bring about hazardous – and potentially deadly – changes. Refilling a section of the Illinois and Michigan Canal would create water-related dangers. Drowning and flooding are just two of the possibilities that arise when a significant body of water is nearby. Additionally, Ottawa already has two rivers, so a body of water for recreational use is not truly necessary. This project could also require a portion of the tow path, which currently passes safely underneath busy LaSalle Street and Columbus Street, to be rerouted. Having the numerous hikers, bicyclists, and other users of the tow path cross over these streets would endanger lives and to a lesser extent contribute to traffic congestion. Reconnecting with historical roots and beautifying this city are worthwhile goals. The revitalization of the downtown area and certain other public places has been an indisputable success. There are plenty of wonderful ways to improve the city of Ottawa without re-watering a section of the Illinois and Michigan Canal. This city deserves a unique attraction that will satisfy visitors and residents alike for many years to come. To help spread the word about this, please share this message with others located in and around Ottawa, Illinois. The individual to contact with inquiries about this proposed project is Mark Diedrichsen (217)782-3863, [email protected]. Written statements regarding the proposed work need to be submitted by July 3, 2013 to: The Illinois Department of Natural Resources One Natural Resource Way Springfield, IL 62702 MAKE YOUR VOICE HEARD!
Posted on: Tue, 25 Jun 2013 01:24:43 +0000
Trending Topics
Recently Viewed Topics
© 2015