The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (Agency) seeks a consultant to analyze and assess five regional properties to determine the best suited location for a Universal Park. Universal design refers to the concept of creating products, environments, and buildings that are accessible and usable by everyone, regardless of age, ability, or other factors. This approach aims to ensure that spaces and items are designed to be inclusive and functional for the widest range of people possible, without the need for adaptation or specialized design. Universal design offers numerous benefits to society, including Inclusivity; Convenience; Safety; Economic Benefits; Aging Population; and Social Integration. Once site analyses of the five properties are complete, the consultant shall summarize the findings in an assessment and recommend a single property that is best suited as a Universal Park. The single recommended property shall be investigated further (including a more detailed demographic study for the single recommended property only). After additional investigation, the consultant shall then prepare schematic designs (including renderings) and provide estimates for the selected state park. SITE ANALYSIS (for each of five state properties): Site analysis shall include meetings with universal design advocacy groups to get input and ideas for accessible features and infrastructure required for a successful universally accessible state park. Site analysis shall include identification, documentation, and appraisal of site features and weigh the relative merits of each potential universal park locations: - Region #1: Buffalo Rock State Park (LaSalle County) - Region #2: William W. Powers State Recreation Area (Cook County) - Region #3: Spitler Woods State Natural Area (Macon County) - Region #4: Sangchris Lake State Park (Sangamon & Christian County) - Region #5: Wayne Fitzgerrell State Recreation Area (Franklin & Jefferson County)
