The restoration of the City of St. Charles Municipal Center Riverwall and Plaza was recognized by Landmarks Illinois with a Richard H. Driehaus Foundation Preservation Award at a ceremony Oct. 29. The annual awards honor individuals, organizations, projects, and programs in Illinois whose work demonstrates a commitment to excellence in historic preservation.

The riverwall project included reconstruction and restoration of the Municipal Center Plaza, fishing platform, existing fountains, viewing platforms and limestone-clad concrete riverwall.

Designed and built in the 1940s by famed architect R. Harold Zook, the Municipal Center complex is a striking example of Art Moderne-style. Multiple alterations and exposure to the elements over the years greatly altered the plaza and riverwall from its original design. In 2009, a $4 million project was undertaken by the City to rehabilitate and restore the wall and plaza to its original design. The project was completed in 2010.

The project also received the Chicago Chapter, Fox Valley Branch “Public Works Project of the Year award” in the Restoration/Preservation category from the American Public Works Association in 2010.

“St. Charles has always had a strong commitment to preservation of its historic buildings and infrastructure,” said Mayor Donald P. DeWitte. “The City has an obligation to insure that these significant structures gifted to the community by our founding families can be enjoyed by future residents for decades to come.”

This is the second time that the City has received the Driehaus Award. In 1998, the City was recognized for its role in the renovation of the historic Hotel Baker.

For more information, please contact James Bernahl or Mark Koenen, Public Works Department, at 630-377-4486.

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 About the City of St. Charles

Friendly neighborhoods, diverse retailers, international employers, innovative schools, beautiful parks, varied cultural amenities, and unique architecture have earned St. Charles its reputation as the Pride of the Fox. Located in both DuPage and Kane counties, the City of St. Charles is 35 miles west of downtown Chicago, and has a population of approximately 33,000. Over 2,100 businesses, consisting of a balanced mix of retailers, restaurants and manufacturing facilities, employ more than 18,000 people. The City of St. Charles was named the #1 City for Families by Family Circle® magazine; one of the “150 Great Places in Illinois,” by the AIA Illinois; and one of the “Top 10 Towns To Live In” by West Suburban Living magazine.