Green Legacy Projects Kick off Burnham Plan Centennial This Summer

July 17, 2009

Kayaking on Lake Michigan, a bike ride across 100 miles stretching from Illinois to Indiana, or hiking along an urban trail - these summer activities are testaments to a bold vision created nearly a centruy ago.

Daniel Burnham and Edward Bennett unveiled their 1909 Plan of Chicago, their vision included a network of parks and forest preserves that have become a legacy unique to this region.

This year the Burnham Plan Centennial has identified twenty some Green Legacy projects: projects that will close critical gaps in our shared green infrastructure.

The projects span the region from Wisconsin through the metropolitan Chicago area to northwestern Indiana, and they preserve, restore and expand our lakeshore, rivers and streams, bike and hiking trails and open space.

Green infrastructure is the region’s interconnected network of open spaces and natural areas, such as greenways and trails, wetlands, parks, forest preserves and native plant vegetation. Natural areas not only offer residents recreation and a way to enjoy nature, they are essential for reducing CO2 emissions, effective storm water management, reducing flooding risk and improving water quality.

Valerie Denney Communications led efforts to generate notable media coverage around Green Legacy projects this June, including three major Chicago Tribune features.