The Forest Preserve District of Cook County has recently released their “Trail Master Plan & Policy.” The plan addresses current and planned changes for paved, unpaved and mowed trails as well as equestrian and mountain bike friendly trails.
The report also provides results of their 2013 survey of trail usage and satisfaction throughout the greater Cook County forest preserves areas.
A copy of the plan can be downloaded here.
Years of courting Toni Preckwinkle by equestrians (honored guest at annual Polo Cup matches) has finally paid off for the Village of Barrington Hills. Horizon Farms was recently purchased by the Forest Preserve District of Cook County and will join the trail system allowing all Cook County residents the opportunity to enjoy the beauty of Barrington Hills, be it on foot, horseback or bike! Kudos to the Polo Club and all equestrians.
I think this is a good thing too. We can introduce some of the underprivileged inner city folks, to the Barrington Hills equestrian life style and share our love of the out of doors with the less fortunate. Our town has has some definite need for more diversity.
A number of equestrians are objecting to trails for walkers, joggers and cyclists in Spring Creek. They’re questioning why they didn’t know about this plan sooner.
Good question so maybe ask the Park District board since they have an intergovernmental agreement with Cook County. They should have known about this study. The Equestrian Commission should have known too but they never seem to meet anymore.
I’d like to see the plan of any new trails being proposed in Spring Creek before passing any judgment or opinions and perhaps others should too. Depending on the scope, it might provide for safer crossings on 62 and 68.
I really hope this does bring the much needed equality to all here in BH – yes let them roam out backyards – on foot on horseback on bike – who care’s. I can’t wait until some section 8 housing is in place…about time.
This problem is brought to us, courtesy of the BH polo and riding people!
I’m not sure some of the blame cited for this plan is due. Cook County didn’t acquire Horizon to do nothing with it and it’s stone’s throw across Old Sutton to Spring Creek FP. It’s definitely put the spotlight on the area in general.
In recent years the marketing of expanded activities at Crabtree have been noticeable. Same goes for other FP areas in Cook County except Spring Creek which is underutilized for the most part except for local horseback riders and those using the new trailer parking in back of the riding center.
Fact is Cook County can do what they darn well please with their land so the best thing to do is work with them in planning and not spout off against them and others (yet). Maybe we should see the actual trail plan on a map first.