June 26, 2017 – The Chicago Riverwalk is up for a few awards but none, arguably, mean as much as approval from its closest neighbor. Friends of the Chicago River gave its top award of the year to the $108 million, 1.25-mile walkway at a fundraising event on June 13.

“The Chicago Riverwalk has redefined how people interact with the Chicago River,” said Mayor Rahm Emanuel, “creating stunning new spaces that feature a variety of opportunities for recreation, education, and entertainment. The city is grateful for the recognition and continued partnership of [Friends of the Chicago River] in our efforts to revitalize the Chicago River.”

(Left) Mayor Emanuel and Margaret Frisbie, Executive Director of Friends of the Chicago River. Photo by Ian Ace Photography.

Friends of the Chicago River says the Riverwalk “features unparalleled design and creativity that connects people with the water and with the plants and animals of the region” and “has positively changed the conversation about what river-edge development can and should be.”

The city will share the Blue Ribbon Award with Ross Barney Architects, Alfred Benesch & Company, Collins Engineers, Jacobs/Ryan Associates, Rausch Construction Company, Sasaki, and Walsh Construction Company.

Wolf Point West, the $160 million, 48-story, 509-unit luxury rental property that officially opened on June 15, 2016, received a Silver Ribbon Award. Friends of the Chicago River noted the building’s open green space and access to the river. The tower, said the nonprofit, “exemplifies how big projects can incorporate amenities for people, plants, and animals.” (Right) Wolf Point West and Holiday Inn Mart Plaza from across Chicago River on May 24, 2016. Photo by Steven Dahlman.

Receiving a Green Ribbon Award was Perkins + Will for Riverline, a residential development being constructed along the south branch of the Chicago River.

500 people attended the Big Fish Ball this year. Friends of the Chicago River says more than $260,000 was raised at the event.