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use. With the anticipated need for water from Lake Michigan to supply 
the growing communities in DuPage County, and with a need to provide 
for sewage disposal, the DuPage County Board of Supervisors would like 
to acquire the right-of-way. It would require the entire length. A future 
monorail development is another possible use. 
PROPOSED OWNERSHIP — To retain the continuity of the right-of-way 
for multiple use, the DuPage County Board of Supervisors is urged to 
acquire the entire rights of the railroad in DuPage County. Similar bodies 
in Cook and Kane Counties should acquire the sections in their counties. 
FINANCING —. Access rights to the entire right-of-way must be purchased 
as soon as possible by the County. The transportation fund is a source 
for purchase — in order to hold the right-of-way for possible highway 
or monorail development in the future and for the Prairie Path now. 
Provision must be made for supervision and maintenance of the Path. This 
may come from forest preserve funds or from some, as yet to be determined. 
body, (possibly nature preserves commission; private society, foundation). 
THE IDEA OF THE PRAIRIE PATH — Mrs. Raymond (May Theilgaard) 
Watts of Naperville, naturalist emeritus of the Morton Arboretum, has 
suggested the use of the right-of-way for hiking, cycling, and horseback 
riding. This unique trail would be compatible with sub-surface water and 
sewage lines and overhead power lines. She wrote a letter to the Editor 
of The Chicago Tribune in September. 1963, suggesting the possibility and 
describing some of the uses. Response to the idea was most encouraging, 
and many people offered their support. 
PROJECT ASSISTANCE — Gunnar Peterson, Director of the Open Lands 
Project, has worked closely with a group of DuPage County residents to 
help with development of the footpath plan. He has consulted with the 
DuPage County Supervisors, the DuPage, Cook and Kane County Forest Pre- 
serve Superintendents, Commonwealth Edison property men, the Director of 
Planning for Kane County and the Northeastern Illinois Metropolitan Area 
Planning Commission. They have all indicated an interest in the Prairie 
Path proposal and feel] it has merit. 
POSSIBLE DEVELOPMENT — The Prairie Path could be a beautiful green 
ribbon through town and countryside — an invitation to the enjoyment 
of the out-of-doors in all seasons for the many residents of the area. 
Separate paths for hikers, cyclists and horseback riders would give all an 
opportunity for exercise and education. The Path varies in width from 
45 to 15 feet and would lend itself well to development. Some suggestions: 
Garden clubs might wish to plant certain areas. 
Men’s clubs might install picnic benches. 
Civic groups could drill wells and build privies. 
Youth groups might engage in clean-up projects. 
Audubon groups might plant shrubs, etc. to attract birds. 
Sportmen’s clubs might clean streams. 
Scout groups might develop trail markers. 
Naturalists might set out simple identification markers. 
Property owners could consider renting Youth Hostel stop-overs and 
one-night camping facilities. 
Simple supply stores might be established. 
Village stores and restaurants could find new customers. 
Rental of bicycles and horses would be possible. 
A list of possible projects and locations is being developed. 
