The author’s sketch in the animation above shows the massing and height of the proposed Obama Presidential Center in Jackson Park, as accurately as possible based on available information.  Intentionally omitted is the design’s supplementary landscaping, which intends to partially conceal the buildings.  As can be seen, the development results in a permanent barrier over thirty feet high along the Stony Island edge of the park.  This obstruction starts north of today’s Midway Plaisance and extends several blocks south to nearly 62nd street, eliminating neighborhood views, and greatly restricting physical access.  Some ramps and stairs leading to the roof are provided, but it must not be forgotten, because this land is no longer a part of the Chicago Park District, it is unlikely that it will retain the same degree of accessibility and guaranteed public functionality afforded by real municipal parkland.

Aside from the destruction of public greenery, the grossly insensitive siting of the museum tower destroys the experience of the historic Midway Plaisance, one of the United States’ most important public domains.  Where today the route provides a sweeping and dramatic overture to the Chicago Lakefront, the once-grand boulevard’s eastbound route soon will be confiscated by the museum tower.  Where today the grandeur of nature and visionary city planning converge to achieve a peerless urban experience, instead Chicago’s residents will confront a stultifying blockade.

Cornell Drive and other streets are further vacated as a part of these regrettable plans, completing the condemnation of spiritual continuity, and the purging of vital physical connectivity so critical to our South lakefront neighborhoods.