It’s a little counterintuitive, but sometimes development can lead to improved natural areas on a site. Such is the case with Atwater redevelopment project in Naperville. More than 90 acres of open space will be protected and managed forever as part of a permanent conservation easement at the new 200-plus acre Atwater subdivision being developed by Pulte Homes.
The conservation easement was made possible by the collaborative efforts of The Conservation Foundation, the City of Naperville, the Army Corps of Engineers, and Pulte Homes.
After Pulte Homes proposed plans to redevelop the former site of Country Lakes Golf Club on the northwest side of the city, between Diehl and North Aurora roads west of Route 59, the City of Naperville, The Conservation Foundation, and Pulte Homes worked together to reach an agreement to permanently preserve the natural areas on the site and provide for 3.8 miles of trails through the community and open space areas.
The restored natural areas and habitat, including native plants with an array of nature’s colors, will attract butterflies, birds and other wildlife to be enjoyed by all.
Pulte Homes plans to build 300 homes in the Atwater community. Pulte Homes, and eventually the residents of the Atwater community through association dues, will provide the financial resources necessary to maintain and preserve the conservation areas and shall be responsible for care of the 3.8 miles of trails.
The Conservation Foundation will have important, on-going responsibilities to monitor and enforce the conservation easement to ensure that the conservation areas remain permanent open space and that the natural areas are ecologically and aesthetically healthy.
Work has begun on the new subdivision and the restoration of the natural areas. Home sales are underway and model homes will open by the end of the summer.
