Bike park will transform South Side industrial area

CHICAGO (WLS) -- A huge transformation is coming to Chicago's Big Marsh on the South Side.

Mayor Rahm Emanuel, Alderman John Pope and Chicago Park District General Superintendent Michael P. Kelly announced plans today to create the Calumet Bike Park along Stoney Island Avenue.

Nearly 300 acres of the old industrial land will be converted into an environmentally friendly recreational area. Nature habitat areas will be enhanced to improve ecological quality and function, and nearly 45 acres will be developed for eco-recreation including fishing, canoeing, hiking, adventure courses, and off-road biking. It will also include different types of tracks for bike riders.

The redevelopment is part of Mayor Emanuel's initiative to invest in parks, playgrounds and recreational spaces throughout Chicago. The project is expected to be completed by the fall of 2015.