Plans have been unveiled for a new extension of the North Branch Trail linking the Bunker Hill forest preserve to Touhy and Caldwell Avenue in Niles. The path will further connect the Chicago suburb to the more than 20-mile network of trails in the preserve.
North Branch Trail extension via city of Niles
As noted in an article by Nadig Newspapers, who first reported on the project, the trail will line an existing corridor cleared for a sewer line in 1957. Leveraging this existing infrastructure will help save costs and prevent the clearing of additional trees. The entrance to the trail will welcome hikers and bikers with signage, two stone markers, and various new flora.
“The Forest preserves and volunteers have done significant restoration work in the area near the trail along Harts Road and Caldwell Avenue,” said Carl Vogel, director of communications for the Forest Preserves of Cook County. “This new connection will allow another easy access option for bikers and hikers to access the remarkable natural areas at Bunker Hill and the more than 20 miles of trails in the Forest Preserves’ North Branch Trail system.”
Expected to cost $499,000, one fifth of the project funds is being sources locally, while the remaining amount is federal funds provided through IDOT’s Illinois Transportation Enhancement Program.
The town of Niles is expected to bring on a construction engineer to oversee the process. Additionally this fall, the bidding process will begin for potential contractors, subcontractors, suppliers, and other transit industry groups. Block Club Chicago reported that a full groundbreaking is expected for May of next year.
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