Forest Preserve District Releases 5-Year Capital Improvement Plan

The Forest Preserve District of Cook County (FPDCC) released the final version of its 2012 – 2016 Capital Improvement Plan at a Board Meeting held on Tuesday, February 2, 2012. The Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) is an annual five-year projection of the Forest Preserve District’s infrastructure investment needs and priorities. “Our five-year Capital Improvement Plan is a roadmap that reflects the District’s mission of restoring, protecting and preserving Cook County’s natural lands and providing opportunities for the public to experience them through education or recreation,” said Forest Preserve District of Cook County General Superintendent Arnold Randall. Highlights of the 2012 – 2016 Capital Improvement Plan include: Planning and construction of bike and equestrian trails; Habitat restoration projects that enhance the value or extend the useful life of the District’s landscapes and natural resources; Building improvement projects, including the restoration of three historic pavilions at Dan Ryan Woods, Eggers Grove and Thatcher Woods; Planning for camp programs and facilities within the Forest Preserves; and Improvements to picnic shelters and parking lots Funding for projects identified in the Capital Improvement Plan comes from a variety of sources, including the District’s Construction and Development fund; Capital Improvement fund; grants; and other sources. The CIP is updated annually, and funding for specific projects is approved before they begin. “The Capital Improvement Plan is an extremely important tool for the Forest Preserve District to use in its long-term planning,” said Forest Preserve District of Cook County Forest Preserve President Toni Preckwinkle. “Projects included in this plan will make the District’s properties more accessible and enjoyable for the residents of our county, while also preserving them for future generations.” The 2012 Plan was developed with a concerted effort to reach new people. Six outreach events were held throughout the County in summer/fall 2011, and an online suggestion form was posted to the District’s website. Comments received through these efforts were reviewed and included in the 2012 update.