Greenway and Trails Technical Assistance Program

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources offers the Greenways & Trails Planning Assistance Program to support the development of greenway and trail networks across Illinois. The program is designed to assist communities, counties, and multi-county coalitions in planning for greenways and trails that protect high-priority natural corridors and provide public access where appropriate. It aims to foster comprehensive, cooperative, and coordinated planning, building on previous successful planning initiatives in Northeastern Illinois and various downstate metro areas. Greenways are corridors of protected open space managed for conservation and recreation purposes. They often follow natural land or water features and link nature preserves, parks, cultural and historic sites, and populated areas. Trails, which may be part of greenways, can serve for walking, biking, horseback riding, or even water-based activities like canoeing and kayaking. Greenways and trails are valued for promoting physical fitness, enhancing community pride, preserving the environment, stimulating economic development, and connecting people with cultural and historical heritage. The program is currently in its third phase, targeting non-metro communities and counties with populations over 10,000, as well as certain coalitions aiming to link existing greenway networks within Illinois or across state borders. Eligible applicants must represent a coalition of agencies, organizations, and individuals instrumental to the planning process. The coalition must include broad representation from local government, state agencies, regional planning bodies, nonprofit conservation and recreation groups, business associations, and other relevant stakeholders. To apply, the lead applicant must be a public or quasi-public agency capable of managing and disbursing funds. The application must demonstrate that a broad-based coalition will guide the planning process and must provide evidence of cost-sharing commitments equivalent to 25-50% of requested funds. The proposal should include a methodology that identifies priority greenways and trails, specifies priority projects, outlines linkages to attractions and destinations, provides a schedule and budget, and includes letters of support from major local governments involved in implementation. Financial assistance is provided via contracts not exceeding $20,000 per grant. Applications must be submitted to the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, Division of Planning, Greenways Program. Contact details include phone (217) 782-3715, fax (217) 524-4177, and email greenway@dnrmail.state.il.us. There is no explicit open or close date provided in the brochure, nor specific award dates or pre-application deadlines mentioned. The brochure emphasizes that the program contributes to building a statewide network of greenways and trails that enhance economic vitality, protect natural resources, and foster healthy communities. It also underlines the importance of community engagement and cross-sector partnerships in achieving these goals.

The brochure encourages applicants to form a broad-based coalition with wide representation and secure strong cost-share commitments and local government support.