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EASEMENT REQUEST
Request: Requesting authorization for the Forest Preserves of Cook County (the “Forest Preserves”) to grant a permanent easement to Illinois Department of Transportation (“IDOT”) at Touhy Avenue over North Branch of Chicago River for 0.266 acre or 11,587 square feet.
Reason: IDOT has requested three (3) permanent easements on the north and south side of Touhy Avenue and the Forest Preserves land immediately adjacent to the North Branch of the Chicago River. The project is proposed to improve aging bridge and road infrastructure, as well as improve pedestrian safety along Touhy Avenue.
As part of the planned bridge replacement, IDOT will expand the existing 5-wide sidewalk on the north side of the bridge to become a 15-foot sidepath to improve safety for North Branch Trail users crossing the bridge. The trail crossing improvements will also include ADA upgrades and replacement of a traffic signal that is currently the Forest Preserves’ jurisdiction. The Forest Preserves is responsible for annual maintenance costs (currently exceeding $5,000.00) as well as replacement costs for a new signal (valued at $287,500.00). The Village of Niles has approved an intergovernmental agreement with IDOT to accept responsibility for traffic signal ownership, replacement and maintenance costs. IDOT is seeking donation of easements and waiver of tree mitigation and related fees due to the proposed trail safety and financial benefits to the Forest Preserves.
The area for the permanent easement is 11,587 square feet or 0.266 acre. IDOT indicates that twenty-three (23) trees are expected to be removed for this project.
Easement Fee: Estimated $31,200.00 (waived)
Tree Mitigation Fee: Estimated $81,850.00 (waived)
Concurrence(s):
The Chief Financial Officer has approved this item. Final easement is subject to legal review and approval.
District(s): 13
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