Philanthropy Key for Separate Bikes and Peds on Chicago's Lakefront Trail

A $12 million gift from a local billionaire will enable a project to give separate access for bike and pedestrians on the popular Lakefront Trail.

1 minute read

December 22, 2016, 8:00 AM PST

By James Brasuell @CasualBrasuell


Chicago Lakefront Trail

jospioc / Shutterstock

"Chicagoans got an early holiday gift today as the city announced a $12 million donation for Lakefront Trail separation from hedge fund billionaire Ken Griffin," reports John Greenfield.

"Residents have previously identified the creation of separate paths for pedestrians and bike riders on the 18.5-mile trail as a top priority for improving the lakefront," according to Greenfield, "since conflicts between different modes can make the path downright chaotic during peak use periods."

Fran Spielman also reports on the news of the donation from Griffin, noting that construction on the lakefront trail separation project could be completed by 2018. "The project is tailor-made to alleviate congestion on a lakefront trail used by more than 100,000 people each day during summer weekends," writes Spielman. 

Tuesday, December 20, 2016 in Chicago Sun Times

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I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching.

Mary G., Urban Planner

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