The concept of urban conservation is not new to city dwellers. The stressful, overcrowded and polluted conditions of cities make the need for respite in parks and wild areas within the cities or close by a high priority. Central Park in New York, Golden Gate Park in San Francisco and Grant or Lincoln Parks in Chicago fulfill some of these needs.
Crowded conditions, however, are evident in these parks as well. The forest preserves in the outlying suburbs help to alleviate some of this crowding. Bikers, joggers, in-line skaters and hikers still need more open space designated for recreation that is accessible from all parts of the metro area. Development is necessary for the continued economic growth of a city, but not at the expense of its people and the health of the environment.
More people today are spending their discretionary income and leisure time in outdoor activities. With our fast-paced, stressful lifestyle, the health benefits of these activities are priceless. Unfortunately, the quality of these experiences is diminished when trails are just as congested as the Kennedy in rush hour.
Funding for acquisition and maintenance of open space is always a limiting factor. This is generally easier when local governments cooperate with the county, state and federal agencies. Monies are available from federal sources for alternative forms of transportation, especially bike and pedestrian paths, and local governments issue bonds for land acquisition. Using land designated as utility corridors or easements is another way to provide unpaved trails in the metro area. Public-private partnerships with land owners, especially in newly developed areas, are now common where a certain percentage of land is set aside for open space.
Increasing and improving open space requires full-time leadership of elected officials who share the values and understand the needs of a diverse population. Now is the time to balance the setting aside of open space with urban expansion. We must make Cook County not only a place to work but a place to live and play. A vocal and interested constituency can make this a reality and not merely a vision for the future.
