N. Aurora reveals plans for riverfront

After months of finding out what North Aurora residents want, designers unveiled two plans for the village's riverfront that would be uniquely North Aurora, including a boardwalk.

Although they are just concepts without prices or permits, the plans take an ambitious approach to revitalizing the area roughly between routes 25 and 31 along State Street, representatives of Strategic Management Alliance and Design Perspectives said.

"We want the final plan to give the community a sense of pride. We want to provide a focal point for the community and improve the quality of life," David Emanuelson of Strategic Management said.

Both plans feature a boardwalk just south of State Street on the island in the Fox River. No other community in Illinois has a boardwalk; and in addition to being unique, the elevated structure would not be as susceptible to flooding.

Both plans also call for increased access nodes to the river and parking. A children's garden was also part of both plans, as well as a pedestrian bridge.

In addition, one of the plans includes a 20,000-square-foot community center near John Street to replace the activity center on State Street and Route 31. The plan also includes moving the fire station on State Street near the river, which Stanton said a developer may find enticing after some redevelopment takes place.

Other concepts residents can ponder are a lookout building, water fountains, widened paths and a nature walk.

Resident Brian LoCicero said he liked elements of both plans, but would also like some attention paid to Route 31 near the tollway, which is a gateway to the area the village wants redeveloped.

The combination of children's activities, village history and a redevelopment of commercial areas near the river was what LoCicero said was the right step. Like most people who took a survey on the project, he said he was willing to pay a little more in taxes to see the vision become reality.

For a look at the concepts and a possible comment, residents can visit the village Web site at www.vil.north-aurora.il.us or visit village hall, where the plans will soon be on display. A revised concept plan will be presented in four to six weeks, Stanton said.