Wayne Township soon to be first Illinois township to adopt bike plan

Last week, Wayne Township residents and elected officials came together to brainstorm ideas for making the six-community area in Chicago's Northwest Suburbs safer and more accessible for cyclists.

The enthusiastic crowd identified opportunities for new side paths, trail connections, on-street bicycle lanes and signage pointing the way to shops and downtowns.

Residents enjoy riding the trails in the area – such as the Illinois Prairie Path – but expressed frustration about “not being able to get to them.”

They also mentioned barriers at crossings such as Schick Road and Rt. 59. DuPage County Forest Preserve District recently finished a path on Schick Road starting west from Bartlett High School, but it stops short of Rt. 59.

As one resident said, she wants kids to be able to bike from the neighborhood across Rt. 59 to the Bartlett Library, less than a mile away.

Attendees also debated the pros and cons of various policies and programs that could be implemented in the future. Their input will be used to inform plan recommendations.

Through this plan, the township hopes to build stronger connections between the portions of communities it encompasses – Wayne, West Chicago, Bartlett, Hanover Park, Carol Stream and St. Charles – and ensure that all residents are able to bike as a mode of transportation.

Did you miss the meeting but still want to weigh in? You’re in luck – we are running an online survey now through the end of August. 

Photo Credit: Laurie Nowak