'606' Trail Set To Reopen Monday Along With Lakefront Path

CHICAGO — The 606 Bloomingdale Trail that snakes through North Side neighborhoods is set to reopen Monday.

Mayor Lori Lightfoot made the announcement Thursday at a new conference announcing Chicago billionaire Ken Griffin's $5 million donation to repair lakefront paths damaged by recent storms, and fund erosion barriers aimed at protecting the shoreline. Griffin previously donated $12 million for a project that separated cycling and walking paths along the lake, which also are slated to reopen with restrictions on Monday.

Eased restrictions to the "606" and lakefront trails, which were shut down March 25 as a result of the coronavirus crisis, requires people adopt a "keep it moving" strategy between 6 a.m. and 7 p.m. Only walking, running, biking, and rollerblading will be allowed.

That means no: congregating, barbecues, beach access and picnicking, among other social gatherings. There will be limited underpasses and bridges open to access the lakefront trail. Chicago Park District "Social Distancing Ambassadors" will be stationed along the trail to remind people about the importance of wearing face coverings, practicing social distancing and manage the flow of traffic.

"Like the lakefront, the 606 will be open to anyone looking for an opportunity to run bike or walk, or enjoy the outdoors. ... Like the lakefront we're going to emphasize: Keep it moving," Lightfoot said, stressing that people shouldn't congregate to decrease the risk of spreading the coronavirus.