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PROPOSED PARTNERSHIP AGREEMENT
Request: Requesting authorization for the Forest Preserves of Cook County (the “Forest Preserves”) to enter into a Partnership Agreement with Openlands, Chicago, Illinois.
Reason: Openlands has received a $400,000.00 grant from the Walder Foundation in support of ecological restoration and the build-out of a community-designed gathering space at Beaubien Woods. The project will involve a 20-acre prairie restoration on the west side of the access road to the Beaubien Woods boat launch, removal of 1 acre of invasive brush surrounding a connector path providing access from Carver Military Academy to Flatfoot Lake, and several off-site restorations intended to create access and preserve riverfront open spaces along the Little Calumet River.
The project’s community-designed gathering space in Beaubien Woods is being designed by the Field Museum and a team of community curators with funding provided through the Illinois Coastal Management Program. The design is anticipated to be complete by the end of 2021 and is based on a regional model to create meaningful, long-term connections with natural places.
A majority of the work will be conducted on Forest Preserves property, at no direct cost to the Forest Preserves. This project builds on plans developed by the Forest Preserves, local communities, and several other governmental organizations and nonprofits to create inviting and culturally relevant access to nature and the Little Calumet River in a way that fosters a healthy community.
Contract Period: Twenty-four (24) months from date of execution
Fiscal Impact: N/A. The project will be conducted at no direct cost to the Forest Preserves, which may provide in-kind staff support for the planning, implementation, and monitoring of the projects.
Account(s): Grant and Mitigation 51010.521314 and 51010.521444
Concurrences:
The Chief Financial Officer has approved this item. Final agreement is subject to legal review and approval.
District(s): 4, 5
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