FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact:  Jason Gerwig
630/407-6022
October 1, 2008

Illinois Prairie Path Named to Rail-Trail Hall of Fame

WHEATON ― This past Monday, DuPage County and area trail enthusiasts celebrated the Illinois Prairie Path’s induction into the Rail-Trail Hall of Fame by unveiling a special plaque to commemorate the honor.  The plaque is located for all to see on the Illinois Prairie Path at Ardmore Ave in Villa Park.

DuPage County Chairman Robert J. Schillerstrom was among those who spoke at the ceremony.  “This is a great honor for the Prairie Path and for our county,” said Schillerstrom.  “DuPage County has been an advocate for open spaces and alternative transportation methods, especially considering our current energy crisis.  The county has always supported, and will continue to support Illinois’ great trail system.”

Jeff Redick (District 2), Environmental Committee Chairman, agreed.  “The Prairie Path has always been an excellent resource for DuPage County, and we’re thrilled that it’s now getting national recognition,” said Redick.  “The Prairie Path provides a break for DuPage County residents from our urban life-styles.  It allows a little enjoyment of nature and is an important and ever growing part of our transportation system.”

The Illinois Prairie Path, the backbone of a countywide network of regional trails totaling 298 miles, is only the seventh trail system to be inducted into the Rail-Trail Hall of Fame.   The gravel, 63-mile trail running through suburban Chicago is one of the Midwest’s most popular pathways, attracting an estimated 800,000 users a year.