Visit Kankakee County, partnering with Bourbonnais Township Park District, the City of Kankakee, the River Safety Committee, and representatives from Riverside Medical Center Dana Arseneau and Illinois Department of Natural Resources Louie Farber, is identifying hazardous locations on the Kankakee River. The group will coordinate the installation of new signage to heighten awareness and promote safety on and near the river.
Six upgraded and larger signs replace the current “danger” signs near the dam on the west side of Washington Street Bridge in downtown Kankakee. These signs are now 8’ x 4’ and span the entire bridge. The River Safety Committee noted great results with research into the Wilmington dam signage. Since the installation of larger signs, there has been a significant decrease in drownings.
Two different locations along the riverfront trail in Bourbonnais Township Park District’s Perry Farm also were identified for sign installation. One location is adjacent to the Indian Caves, where four different 5’ x 2.5’ signs are posted. The second location is known as Hides Hole, where a 2’ x 2’ sign has been installed in a clearing. There have been several incidents of drownings or near drownings within the past decade, as these areas provide a great place to relax and enjoy the summer months. As the area welcomes new visitors to these popular river destinations, the group wants to provide clarity and safety surrounding potential dangers.
Visit Kankakee County Executive Director Nicole Gavin stated “Each year, thousands of residents and visitors make their way to the Kankakee River for leisure and recreational activities. Safety is imperative and, with so many flocking to the shores, we are taking every step to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.”
To request more information, please contact info@kccvb.com.