For Immediate Release:
March 17, 2025
Village of Channahon Announces Groundbreaking for I&M Canal Gateway Project
CHANNAHON, Ill. - The Village of Channahon today announced the groundbreaking for the I&M Canal Gateway (25450 W. Eames Street), a significant addition to the Village's already robust natural amenities that will enhance outdoor recreation opportunities on the I&M Canal State Trail. Construction on the I&M Canal Gateway will begin on Tuesday, March 18, 2025 and is scheduled to be completed by Summer 2025.
Funded largely by diesel taxes collected from the various fueling centers located in the Village of Channahon, the I&M Canal Gateway will serve as a hub for visitors and residents as they travel the I&M Canal towpath. The Gateway will feature a variety of amenities designed to promote outdoor exploration, with key amenities including a bike rental facility, bicycle repair stations, bike racks, water fountain, water bottle filling station, a pavilion with seating, and more. The plan also includes accommodations for public art installations, which will be spearheaded by the Village's Arts & Culture Commission. The parking area will be constructed of permeable pavers, designed to be an ecologically friendly and sustainable method of stormwater management.
"The I&M Canal is one of the most historic outdoor attractions in the state, and we are beyond fortunate to have it, quite literally, in our backyards in Channahon," said Village President Missey Moorman Schumacher. "We believe the Canal Gateway project will bring far more attention to all that the I&M Canal has to offer for our residents and visitors. We're excited to see this vision come to life and create a vibrant recreational space for all of Channahon."
The I&M Canal Gateway is part of the Village's broader and ongoing focus to promote the many natural amenities in town. The site was designed by Wight & Company of Darien, Illinois, and Abbey Construction Co. Inc. of Aurora, Illinois was awarded the contract for construction.
For more information on the Village of Channahon and its current projects, please visit www.channahon.org (link) or call 815-467-6644.