Sinnissippi Park, Perennial Garden, and Riverfront Erosion Repairs Project
July 2023 Updated Photos
June 2023 Update
May 2023 Updated Photos
April 2023 Update - Crews have resumed working in Sinnissippi Park as part of the Sinnissippi Erosion Project. For your safety, if visiting the park, please be aware of potential road closures and avoid roads blocked with barricades.
Project Background
A well-planned and very comprehensive project to address water erosion control issues within Sinnissippi Park began in March 2023. Preservation of these areas is very important to the Rockford Park District and this project will help protect the park and Rock River Recreation Path for generation after generation to enjoy.
Stabilizing the banks of the ravine is the first of many steps needed to ensure that proper drainage is in place for years to come so generation after generation can enjoy Sinnissippi Park, Sinnissippi Rose Garden, and the Rock River Recreation Path.
This massive erosion project is possible thanks to State of Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) funding that was secured by State Representative Maurice West in the amount of $800,000. The goal of the project within Sinnissippi Park is to open the existing vegetation canopy, which will allow for oak and hickory regeneration, native grass and vegetation growth, wildlife habitat maintenance, and invasive species removal. Rockford Park District experts have also consulted a variety of ecological experts as well.
Phase One – Stabilization of Eroded Ravine in Sinnissippi Park
Undesirable trees and invasive shrubs will be removed along ravine in Sinnissippi Park which will also open the tree canopy. Over the course of many decades the oak woodlands has come under mesophication which allows undesirable species to exist which creates too much shade.
In all, 66 trees will either be harvested, or removed. The first phase includes removing and harvesting 48 trees. Removal will help open the tree canopy to allow sunlight to reach native plant species that will be planted later this year as a part of this project. The Park District will utilize money from the tree harvest to help recoup project expenses. The second phase of the tree removal part of the project includes removing 18 trees that don’t have timber value. Specific trees have been selected to remain and be protected to give the Park District the best chance of utilizing the seeds to grow new, desirable oak trees.
The ravine will be regraded, and water control structures will be put in place. Prairie plants will be installed along the ravine to stabilize soil and a retention basin will be built with wetland plants. In the future, the District will look at rebuilding the oak woodland.
Phase Two – Perennial Garden Erosion Repairs within Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens Campus
Removal of previously eroded sediment and re-grading work within the drainage swale located between the railroad and Perennial Garden, repair of the existing drain pipe, and establishment of native grasses, sedges, and rushes.
Phase Three – Rock River Shoreline Repairs and Stabilization
Bank restoration work to repair sections of heavily eroded Rock River shoreline. Work includes the installation of stone riprap material to armor the shoreline, new trench drain and curbing to control overland storm water flow, and new fencing to protect pathway users.
A map of the area outlines in yellow the erosion project area.
Work will take place along the riverfront area in April which could possibly result in closing the Rock River Recreation Path at times. Depending on weather and contractor availability, work should be complete by early summer.