Project Overview

The Cal-Sag Trail at the Lake Katherine Nature Center in the City of Palos Heights had nearly 155,000 users in 2020. Due to the demand at this facility, there were safety concerns where the trail crosses the parking lot and a parking shortage for trail users. The Lake Katherine Nature Center is located on property leased by the City from the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District (MWRD). CBBEL assisted the City in securing STP (federal) funding and a Green Infrastructure grant from MWRD for various safety improvements to the Cal-Sag Trail, expansion of the trailhead parking facility, bioswales, and a stormwater detention facility.

CBBEL completed a parking capacity study for this regional trail system, identifying a deficiency along this section of the Cal-Sag Trail. A Phase I Report was approved which consisted of an alternatives analysis to identify the desired trail and parking lot design to address the needs of the trail users and Lake Katherine facilities, public information meeting, environmental and cultural site clearances, and wetland assessment.

Contract documents were prepared by CBBEL in accordance with federal design guidelines to expand the existing parking facility with 52 additional parking stalls and ADA accessibility. The parking lot was designed with permeable pavers, and bioswales were designed adjacent to the lot for stormwater and water quality benefits. A turnaround at the east end of the new parking lot was included to improve circulation and reduce vehicular-pedestrian conflicts. A detention facility was required to control the release of stormwater offsite. CBBEL secured an MWRD Watershed Management Ordinance permit for the improvements.