Marion Street

Lakota developed a plan to open Marion Street to two-way traffic in order to revitalize a deteriorated pedestrian mall in the center of historic downtown Oak Park. The streetscape design focused on rejuvenating this well-known commercial center with a rich variety of materials and flexible outdoor gathering spaces. The design included natural stone, brick street/sidewalk paving, custom site furnishings, a central water feature, new plantings, and custom lighting. Sustainable design techniques were used, such as an under-sidewalk heat mat and a gray water storage system for irrigation. The project has been integral to creating an active and vibrant commercial district, and has spurred additional streetscape enhancements and economic development within the downtown.

Lakota has received the following awards for the Marion Street project: Honor Award from the American Society of Landscape Architects Illinois Chapter; Gold Award for Implementation from the American Planning Association Illinois Chapter; Charter Award from the Congress of New Urbanism Illinois Chapter, and Gold Award from the Brick Industry Association.