This system of existing and developing trails is being facilitated by a multitude of partnerships between public and private interests in northern Illinois. The Department of Natural Resources first introduced the Grand Trail as a chapter in the first public draft of the State Trails Plan in the spring of 1994. The plan cites the growing trend in America of long-distance trail and greenway networks providing for multiple recreational opportunities, economic and community revitalization, preservation of community character and an awareness of cultural roots. Response to the plan was considerable and many recommendations were incorporated into the Final Draft State Trail Plan published in the spring of 1995. Communities across northern Illinois have shared in the experience that trails have to offer and the wonder of inclusion.
Trails offer all ages opportunity to recreate.
Truly, trails which connect with other trails also unite people to places, neighborhoods to town centers, cities to countrysides to other cities and along the way become a linear community in of itself. The Grand Illinois Trail will be a priority for the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. The Department's role in the development and completion of the Grand Illinois Trail will be a proactive one where linkages are needed most. The Department will provide opportunities for jurisdictions to cost-share acquisition or development of trails and their amenities. Technical assistance in providing trail planning and analysis, facilitating conceptual planning and providing advocacy and technical expertise during board meetings, public hearings or constituency groups will be forthcoming to those who have the need.