TranSystems' unique historic wood paver restoration project was was selected to receive ACEC of Illinois' Engineering Excellence Award Honor Award.
One of only two remaining wood-paved areas in the city of Chicago, the Historic Wood Paver Restoration project rehabilitated a deteriorating alley in the Gold Coast neighborhood of Chicago and returned a national treasure to the community. Originally constructed in 1909 of wooden paver blocks, the alley was in great need of repair. Wagon wheels, horse and automobile traffic, harsh weather conditions, and winter salt treatments had taken their toll causing drainage deficiencies, uneven surfaces, and ADA compliance issues. Because of the neighborhood resident’s interest in maintaining the historical integrity of the alley, restoring it became a priority for the Chicago Department of Transportation. The area is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and as a City of Chicago Historic Preservation Division Landmark.
The project involved extensive research into wood block street construction best practices in the late 1800s and early 1900s, only to find that what worked in the past was not suitable for modern-day development. The original pavers were cedar blocks treated with creosote, a known carcinogen. Many solutions were researched and various types of wood tested to gauge their endurance against the elements, but most failed becoming distorted and leaving an unpleasant odor after just a few short months. The black locust wood, an incredibly hard and stable wood, which did not absorb moisture easily, was selected and manufactured. The restoration not only included the installation of these new wood pavers, but existing pavers found in good condition were reused. The deficiencies and issues were resolved and the project resulted in a beautiful architectural tribute to the integral role wooden paver blocks played in the development of the street systems in Chicago and around the country, facilitating the transportation of people and goods essential to the nation’s growth and connectivity.