CHICAGO — Now that The 606 exists, what's next?
The 2.7-mile-long park system that runs through four city neighborhoods opened earlier this summer after years of talk and development.
But there are a number of projects all across the city, some further along than others, that could merit some of the hype that The 606 received.
Here are six of the projects, each of which serve up a dose of nature, a new path for pedestrians and cyclists or both.
Unnamed Bike Path Near Addison
What is it? Under a Park District proposal, a two-mile-long trail would link California Park in Irving Park and Clark Park in North Center. Among the features would be a bridge that would hover 16 feet over the Chicago River.
Where would it be? Over the Chicago River around Addison Street.
How long has this been in the works? Plans date to 2010.
How likely is it to happen? The project took steps forward after the Chicago Park District board approved a lease with property owners, the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District. Work could begin next year and wrap up by 2017.
Englewood Line
What is it? If this project is completed, the Bloomingdale Trail won't be the only former rail line turned into a Chicago park. The Englewood Line is a proposed 1.7-mile-long elevated park and trail system using track once owned by Norfolk Southern railroad.
Where would it be? The system would run north of 59th Street between Hoyne Avenue and Wallace Street.
How long has this been in the works? The rail line was identified as a potential park in 2007 and a preliminary design for the "New ERA (Englewood Remaking America) Trail" was conceived in 2009.
How likely is it to happen? The project is inching forward, but the timeline is unclear. Last year, the city moved to acquire the track from the railroad company.
West Ridge Nature Preserve
What is it? A 20-acre park and wildlife area outfitted with new native plants, boardwalks and fishing holes, the West Ridge Nature Preserve is sprouting on untouched land bought from Rosehill Cemetery for $7.7 million.
Where is it? On Western Avenue, between Between Peterson and Hollywood avenues.
How long has this been in the works? The land was bought by the park district in 2011.
How likely is it to happen? It's almost ready. Expect a grand unveiling later this summer.
Navy Pier flyover
What is it? The flyover is a remake of the Lakefront Trail near Navy Pier, allowing joggers and cyclists to travel the area around the tourist area and Chicago River without being exposed to traffic.
How long has this been in the works? An early version of the plan was presented by city officials in 2002.
How likely is it to happen? Work began on the flyover in March 2014. The $60 million project is expected to be complete in 2018.
North Branch Trail Extension
What is it? The project would extend the 18-mile North Branch Trail another three miles south, connecting Edgebrook to Mayfair.
Where is it? The trail extension would be between the Cook County Forest Preserves from Devon and Caldwell avenues to Foster and Kostner avenues near Gompers Park.
How long has this been in the works? It's been planned since 2008.
How likely is it to happen? The Cook County Forest Preserve District took bids earlier this year but delayed the project due to high costs. Officials said they hope to get construction started next year.
Big Marsh Bike Park
What is it? A former 278-acre Southeast Side industrial site is being transformed into a destination for everything from fishing to cycling to hiking. There will be bird-watching and canoeing too. There's a half-mile long asphalt trail planned along with a gravel 1.9-mile path as well.
Where is it? The park is in South Deering at 110th Street and Stony Island Avenue.
How long has this been in the works? The Friends of Big Marsh group came together in 2014.
How likely is it to happen? Work has started on the first phase of the park, expected to be done by the spring at the cost of $6.4 million. Park advocates say they hope the bike park will be part of a larger 1,000-acre plan simply known now as Big Marsh.
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