Mbankment

Chicago, long known for “The L,” now has a new linear corridor, this time a dramatic public space along the banks of the South Branch of the Chicago River, “The M” – or “The South Branch Mbankment.”

“The Mbankment” offers over two miles of new social amenities and public spaces along the edge of the river. Defined by a new geo-engineering technology, it is constructed as a modular fabric that blends land with water, diversifying water-edge experiences and ecologies. Thriving wetlands and aquatic habitat merge seamlessly with pathways for strolling, jogging, cycling and access. Along the way are a variety of destinations – a performance theater, a swimming pool and fitness area, a climbing wall, picnic and overlook spaces, kayak launches and newly expanded parkland.

The Mbankment is constructed NOT as a channelized river with a raised walk, but as a newly made edge, where water and land blend – fortified against erosion and use as well as absorptive and accommodating of ecological processes (flood, stormwater management, water quality improvement, and habitat diversification).  Individual pre-cast cellular units create a flexible honeycomb-like edge, a matrix that folds and adapts to local circumstance, and creates a variety of distinctive settings along the river. This creates a “place,” a river-walk, with various destinations and features, not unlike London’s South Bank or New York’s High Line. In these instances, communities, institutions, habitats and businesses thrive together.

Like much of Chicago architecture, The Mbankment offers a bold technological expression, both practical and iconic, while at the same time creating a new hip and edgy place for people to meet, use and experience. It is inviting, productive and living, a new model for life in the city. “River Wall” The channelized river wall limits access, dimension, bio-diversity, and ecological function.