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GROUNDBREAKING FOR NEW POCKET PARK IN FIRST-OF-ITS-KIND, FLOATING ECO PARK ON CHICAGO RIVER NORTH BRANCH
Tito’s Handmade Vodka pours $50K into local nonprofit Urban Rivers’ transformation of the riverfront with community cleanup and Tito’s cocktails
Tito’s Handmade Vodka and Urban Rivers are breaking ground on a new riverfront pocket park at the entry to the Chicago River’s revolutionary floating eco-park “Wild Mile.”
To celebrate, Tito’s is gifting $50,000 and hosting a community volunteer day to kick off construction. Volunteers (21+) are invited to sign up via Eventbrite to:
- Create seed bombs with native wildflower seeds.
- Kayak the river to clear trash.
- Remove invasive plants and debris from the future park site.
- Survey native mussels to support ecosystem restoration.
- End the day with a happy hour on the boardwalk, featuring Tito’s Handmade Vodka cocktails.
WHEN: Fri., Sept. 26, 2025, 10 AM – 5 PM CT (cocktails begin at 4PM)
WHERE: 905 W Eastman St (Chicago River North Branch; Near Goose Island), Chicago, IL 60642
ASSETS: Photos HERE
ADDITIONAL INFO: Love, Tito’s, the philanthropic heart of Tito’s Handmade Vodka, is teaming up with Urban Rivers, a Chicago-based nonprofit dedicated to transforming urban waterways and are calling on the community to lend a helping hand.
With a $50,000 gift to kickstart the creation of a vibrant new pocket park along the riverfront, featuring native plants, new seating, and educational signage. This community-centered space will reimagine the entryway to the Wild Mile, blending natural beauty with opportunities for learning and leisure.
The September volunteer day marks Phase 1 of the project: tackling the heavy lifting to clear out invasive species, remove debris, and prep the site for transformation.
Phase 2 will return in the spring, when volunteers will bring the park to life with flower plantings, new benches, and other final touches to create a welcoming, vibrant green space for the community.
