Chapter I: Origin of the Plan of Chicago

The tendency towards city life 1

Problems of the great city 1

Necessity for city-planning 2

Economy and efficiency promoted by a city plan 2

Elements of a comprehensive plan 4

Influence of the World’s Columbian Exposition on city-planning in
the United States 4

The success of the Exposition due to competent direction and loyalty
to Chicago 4

Improvement of the Lake front proposed by the South Park
Commissioners 6

Expansion of the South Parks system 7

The Commercial Club undertakes a plan of Chicago 7

Progress of the work 7

Scope of the undertaking 8

An ideal arrangement proposed 8

The Spirit of Chicago 8