In a triple collaboration, several local organizations will join to break ground for the West Branch DuPage River Trail 11 a.m. Sept. 13 at the Winfield Fire Protection District House at 27W530 High Lake Rd.
Winfield Village and its Riverwalk Committee will join DuPage County’s Forest Preserve District for the ceremony, which is open to the public. The project will connect multiple areas including the Winfield Mounds and West DuPage Woods forest preserves; Wynwood Park, Lions Park and Oakwood Park through downtown Winfield.
Additionally, the Winfield Metra station and Central DuPage Hospital will be accessible along the route. The extension will be key to the completion of the 23-mile long trail.
“Winfield is pleased to have a new regional trail in our village’s town center,” Village President Erik Spande said. “The trail will provide opportunities for recreation, health and wellness, appreciation of the natural environment, increased development and new customers for Winfield businesses.”
With a price tag of $2.9 million, funding will come partially from federal sources including $2.2 million from the Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Improvement Program (CMAQ) and the Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP).
Winfield Village will contribute $184,000, while funds from the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County will provide another $538,000. Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning (CMAP) executive director Joseph Szabo said the project falls into alignment with the regional vision for green infrastructure. CMAP is administering the project.
“We’re thrilled to collaborate to provide DuPage County residents with this wonderful link in the community and another way to connect to nature,” Forest Preserve District Commissioner, District 6, Al Murphy said.
Founded over a century ago, the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County serves over 4 million visitors annually at its preserves, trails, education centers and programs.
Alerts Sign-up