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The breakwater story
The Chicago Harbor breakwater system extends from north of Navy Pier to Museum Campus. Its history is rooted in protecting one of the region's greatest assets – shipping on the Chicago River. In the mid-1800s, rock and timber were placed near the river mouth to shield against heavy waves and prevent sand from clogging the entrance to the river. Barriers like these helped the city become one of the busiest commercial centers in the world. Over time, the breakwater system was expanded in part to protect the surrounding shoreline from heavy waves that cause flooding and erosion, a function it continues to serve. Today, hundreds of recreational boaters also take advantage of the calm water near downtown to dock their boats and safely move between the river and the lake.
The breakwater is not without its downsides. The structures require constant, and often costly, maintenance. Over the decades, portions of the system have been entirely rebuilt. Also, by their very design, breakwaters change the natural movement of water and sediment. Sand building up along the man-made structure helps keep rivers and harbors open. But this prevents sand from replenishing beaches down shore.
The breakwater is not without its downsides. The structures require constant, and often costly, maintenance. Over the decades, portions of the system have been entirely rebuilt. Also, by their very design, breakwaters change the natural movement of water and sediment. Sand building up along the man-made structure helps keep rivers and harbors open. But this prevents sand from replenishing beaches down shore.
