Online Staff Report

Rockford Park District has begun the Sinnissippi Riverfront Parking Expansion Project. The expansion will add 82 parking spaces and extend Ethel Avenue south to the parking lot at the Swan Anderson building to better accommodate visitors to Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens, Rose Garden, Rock River Recreation Path and Eclipse Lagoon.

Stenstrom Excavation and Blacktop Group was awarded the construction contract in the amount of $457,760. The parking lot features new accessible parking, and a lighted 8-foot-wide sidewalk with two respite areas with seating and landscaping.

The parking lot also features unique sustainable design elements, including two electronic vehicle charging stations and a “living” retaining wall, which will be the only one of its kind in Rockford. Construction is set to be completed by the end of September.

Parking options during construction

An electronic message board has been placed along North Second Street to help direct traffic. Rockford Park District asks that residents avoid Ethel Avenue just west of North Second Street. Signage will be posted alerting patrons of parking options. Rockford Park District staff have alternative parking options and shuttle opportunities planned for large special events taking place at Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens or along the riverfront.

Parking options during construction include the following:

• Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens’ parking lot, 1354 N. Second St., Rockford will be open during the Sinnissippi Riverfront Parking Expansion Project, but only Conservatory guests are allowed to park in the lot.

• Rock River Recreation Path, Rose Garden, Sea Scout Building and Eclipse Lagoon visitors are encouraged to park at the following locations:

— YMCA, 200 Y Blvd., Rockford, south parking lot;

— Sinnissippi Riverfront Park, 1354 N. Second St., Rockford; and

— Sinnissippi Park, 1401 N. Second St., Rockford.

Free day at Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens suspended

As a result of the Sinnissippi Riverfront Parking Expansion Project, Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens will temporarily suspend the monthly free day in July, August and September. Ask Conservatory staff, check the website at www.nicholasconservatory.org ^[1], or visit “Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens — Rockford Park District” on Facebook for special deals and admission discounts.

For additional information, contact Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens at (815) 987-8858.

Posted July 12, 2012