Introduction to Northerly Island Visitor Center
The Northerly Island visitor center reopened on Monday, nearly a year and a half after it closed due to a fire in November 2023. The lobby was fully restored and windows, complete with bird collision film, were replaced, the Chicago Park District said. The former Meigs Field terminal structure also received electrical and lighting upgrades.
History of the Fire
The building had been boarded up and closed since November 28, 2023, when firefighters put down a blaze.
New Programs and Services
The Northerly Island visitor center was closed after a fire in November of 2023. The former Meigs Field terminal reopened Monday with a slate of new programs for outdoor enthusiasts.
Tyler Pasciak LaRiviere/Sun-Times file
“I am extremely grateful to the public for their patience during the restoration process and to our team for helping to reactivate this community asset that offers more access to nature-based programming opportunities,” said Carlos Ramirez-Rosa, the general superintendent and CEO of the Chicago Park District.
Operating Hours and Programs
The visitor center will be open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Annual programs such as Family Fishing and Birding is for Everyone bird walks will be available again, as well as a new fly fishing program in May and June and the return of the Chicago Park District Camping Gear Library in July.
Conclusion
The reopening of the Northerly Island visitor center marks a significant milestone in the restoration of this community asset. With its new programs and services, the center is poised to provide outdoor enthusiasts with a unique and enriching experience.
FAQs
Q: What are the operating hours of the Northerly Island visitor center?
A: The visitor center is open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Q: What programs are available at the visitor center?
A: Annual programs such as Family Fishing and Birding is for Everyone bird walks will be available again, as well as a new fly fishing program in May and June and the return of the Chicago Park District Camping Gear Library in July.
Q: What happened to the visitor center in 2023?
A: The visitor center was closed due to a fire in November 2023.
Q: What upgrades were made to the visitor center during the restoration process?
A: The lobby was fully restored, windows were replaced with bird collision film, and electrical and lighting upgrades were made.
