Dupage Policy Journal

Visitors invited to celebrate new lot, safer access to one of the most popular preserves

Forest Preserve District visitors are invited to join commissioners, staff, and other guests for a parking lot party on Saturday, Oct. 1, from 9 to 11 a.m. at Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve in Darien.

Attendees will enjoy a morning complete with trail tips and bike safety checks. Breakfast items will be available for purchase from Beavers Coffee + Donuts, repeatedly voted one of Chicago’s best food trucks. The first 100 customers will receive a complimentary half dozen mini doughnuts and a free small coffee.

The new lot, a 2019 certified master plan project, allows parking for 180 cars, reduces pedestrian and user conflicts near the intersection of Cass Avenue and Bluff Road, and improves trailhead access. A former 17-car parking lot at the site could not adequately accommodate the increasing number of visitors to the preserve and frequently resulted in overflow parking on Bluff Road and Cass Avenue. Next year, a 0.3-acre picnic area and building with flush washrooms will further enhance the new lot.

The project’s design was coordinated with an ongoing habitat restoration project at the preserve to lessen impacts on natural resources, minimize disruption, and enhance the overall visitor experience. The new lot was open by Labor Day weekend, weeks ahead of its target completion date.

“We’re excited to welcome visitors to the new lot, which offers safer access to one of our most popular preserves,” said Forest Preserve District President Daniel Hebreard.

Forest Preserve District Commissioner Linda Painter added: “With the increasing popularity of Waterfall Glen came parking and safety concerns. It’s great to see the much-needed parking lot come to fruition.”

The Forest Preserve District of DuPage County has been connecting people to nature for more than 100 years. More than 6.2 million people visit its 60 forest preserves, 166 miles of trails, six education centers, and scores of programs each year. For information call 630-933-7200 or visit dupageforest.org where you can also link to the District’s e-newsletter as well as Facebook, Twitter Instagram and TikTok pages.

"We strive to connect all people to nature," states their mission statement "We're committed to promoting diversity equity inclusion belonging providing facilities programs activities free from discrimination or harassment."