The view from the Jefferson Street Bridge shows the shoreline along Riverwalk. From here the Riverwalk leads visitors to sections of the winding brick path that may be closed while the shoreline stabilization project is in progress. (PN Photo)
The Naperville Park District shoreline stabilization project along the West Branch of the DuPage River is now in progress.
Park District staff identified an area on the west end of the Riverwalk between Jefferson Avenue and the Jaycees playground where erosion of the shoreline was most severe, and stabilization would benefit the structural integrity of the existing paver walk.
During the project, sections of the Riverwalk may be temporarily closed due to project maintenance activities. Closure updates will be communicated through on-site signage and the Park District’s social media.
Construction is expected to conclude in summer 2025.
Folks who regularly stroll the Riverwalk have observed removal of invasive plants, namely buckthorn, honeysuckle and white mulberry. Unstable trees also have been removed. Other trees and shrubs and a variety of deep-rooted sedges and grasses have been planted to help stabilize the steep shoreline on the west side of Centennial Beach.
Behind River Place condos and headed west along the Riverwalk, residents are aware that invasive plants such as buckthorn, honeysuckle, white mulberry and tree of heaven are being removed.
During walks with Naperville Riverwalk Operations Manager Tiffani Picco who is also a Certified Arborist, we learned that the attractive tree of heaven is invasive and a threat to native species here in the Midwest and all across North America. The aggressive tree of heaven has crowded out native plants all along the banks of the DuPage River.
Additional PN research revealed the rapidly growing deciduous and flowering tree of heaven, native to China, also has a strong, offensive smell. Consequently, the tree of heaven is known as a stinking sumac, Chinese sumac, varnish tree and stink tree—another reason it’s not so welcome.
During a recent walk, a gathering of geese was feeding independently without the help of humans. Remember to allow all waterfowl to find food naturally in nature. Signs along the Riverwalk are reminders that feeding ducks and geese is harmful.
All trees along the Riverwalk are assessed by Certified Arborists, and any trees found to be a safety concern or in severe decline are clearly marked (Note Xs that now designate many trees.) and scheduled for removal. New trees will replace what was removed. Healthy trees are pruned as needed.
According to the release from the Naperville Park District, any comments or questions regarding the work can be directed to Peggy Motta at pmotta@napervilleparks.org.
To learn more about the District’s other restoration projects, visit www.napervilleparks.org/restorationprojects.
—Park District Report with some PN commentary and photos.
