Riverwalk & Streetscape Project
Project Overview
The Old Town Algonquin Riverwalk and Streetscape Project was the second phase of planned initiatives to revitalize Old Town Algonquin through the transformation of adjacent downtown blocks, Washington and Harrison streets. The goal of this project is to extend streetscape improvements from Main Street onto Washington and Harrison streets as part of the Village’s overall redevelopment Downtown Streetscape Master Plan. Features of this project will preserve the character and history of the area through enhanced streetscape features, pedestrian and driver safety enhancements, a new Riverwalk path as well as infrastructure improvements.
Project Components
  • Applying streetscape enhancements to Washington and Harrison streets. 
    These enhancements include aesthetic improvements such as new landscaping, seating and decorative lighting as well as structural improvements like pavement resurfacing and new curbs. The implementation of these features will continue to help transform the downtown area into a beautiful and safe environment for our community. 
  • Replacing the Harrison Street bridge structure and implementing Crystal Creek channel improvements. 
    The new bridge structure and widening of Crystal Creek will provide capacity for higher volumes of water to pass underneath, effectively improving the risk of flooding for upstream residents. The new bridge and creek improvements will also remove Village properties from the floodplain, making them attractive properties for new downtown establishments.  
  • Constructing a new Riverwalk along Crystal Creek from Towne Park to Cornish Park. 
    The creation of this Riverwalk is part of Algonquin’s continued commitment to provide greater access to downtown businesses and services for residents, all while promoting healthy lifestyles. The Riverwalk will provide connections to Towne Park, Main Street and Cornish Park.
  • Creating additional downtown parking areas with access to the new Riverwalk and improving existing downtown parking accommodations. 
    ​In addition to constructing a new parking area for the Riverwalk, which will include over 20 spaces, the parking area south of the Harrison Street bridge will be reinstated, creating 5 additional spaces. A second new parking area will be built at 20 West Washington Street with over 20 spaces. The Historic Village Hall parking lot and municipal parking lot at Washington and Harrison Street will both be repaved to address the existing, failing pavement issues. 
  • Relocating existing Harrison Street utilities underground. 
    ​    By relocating the utilities underground, trees have the opportunity to grow naturally.     ​
  • Addressing the remaining downtown streets that need resurfacing drainage improvements. The following will be resurfaced: Madison, Division, Center, Willow and Jayne Streets.
Project Features
Construction Notice Archives
Public Meeting
PUBLIC MEETING  |  DECEMBER 14, 2021  |  5PM-6PM
Community members gathered virtually on December 14, 2021 to learn more about the Riverwalk & Streetscape Project including the planned improvements, construction schedule and required detours. The public meeting included a live presentation followed by a question-and-answer session moderated by project team members. Check out the links below to view materials presented at the public meeting as well as a video recording of the meeting.​
December 4, 2021 Zoom Recording
Existing Conditions Video
Project Maps
Project Benefits
The benefits below relate to various stages of the project, while some may be specific to one stage only. 
  • New sidewalks and lighting to improve pedestrian safety and walkability
  • Decorative lighting, furniture and other streetscape features to create an inviting atmosphere 
  • Over 45 new parking spaces that provide access to various downtown areas
  • New Riverwalk path with connections to Towne Park, Cornish Park and downtown Algonquin
  • Increased safety for all roadway users through new street lighting and infrastructure improvements
  • Streetscape infrastructure improvements along Washington Street will create a flat, walkable surface (from sidewalk to sidewalk) allowing the street to be closed off and utilized for Village festivals and events 
  • Crystal Creek channel improvements will reduce the risk of flooding for upstream residents 
Project Contacts
Razvan Calin, Project Manager
Phone: 847-823-0500
Email: rcalin@cbbel.com
Clifton V. Ganek, P.E., Village Engineer
Email: cliftonganek@algonquin.org