FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
$2.8 million project to improve safety, accessibility, and recreation
NAPERVILLE, Ill. (Oct. 27, 2026) — The Forest Preserve District of DuPage County celebrated the start of $2.8 million in improvements at Greene Valley Forest Preserve with a ceremonial groundbreaking attended by elected officials, District staff, and community partners.
The project will enhance safety, accessibility, and recreational opportunities on the north side of the 1,388-acre preserve, which welcomes nearly 400,000 visitors annually.
Planned improvements include relocating the preserve entrance to improve traffic flow and safety, replacing existing toilets with modern flush washrooms powered by a solar array, constructing a new picnic shelter, and adding paved trail connections. A new kayak and canoe launch with an ADA-accessible route will provide improved access to the East Branch DuPage River, and a shaded gathering space near the historic Greene Barn will offer visitors another place to relax and connect with nature.
“These improvements will make Greene Valley safer, more accessible, and more enjoyable for the thousands of people who visit each year,” said Forest Preserve District of DuPage County President Daniel Hebreard. “We’re excited to bring this project to life while preserving the natural character that makes this forest preserve so special.”
The improvements are part of the Greene Valley Master Plan, which the Forest Preserve District’s board approved in 2023 after extensive planning and community input.
Funding for the project includes a $600,000 Open Space Land Acquisition and Development grant administered by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and $200,000 from the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity.
Construction is expected to be complete by late summer or early fall 2027.
Photos from the event are available at https://show.pics.io/greene-valley-master-plan-improvements-groundbreaking-ceremony.
Photo caption: A ceremonial groundbreaking Oct. 27 marks the start of $2.8 million in improvements at Greene Valley Forest Preserve. From left are Forest Preserve District of DuPage County Commissioner Rick Gieser, state Rep. Anne Stava, District Commissioner Jeff Gahris, U.S. Rep. Bill Foster, District President Daniel Hebreard, and District commissioners Tina Tyson-Dunne and Linda Painter. The project will enhance visitor safety, accessibility, and recreational opportunities.
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About the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County
The Forest Preserve District of DuPage County improves the quality of life for all DuPage County residents. Its 26,000 acres of woodlands, prairies, wetlands, and waterways contribute to cleaner air and water, help with flood control, create vital habitats for wildlife, and provide safe spaces where people can boost their physical and mental health. More than 5.9 million people visit its 60 forest preserves, 175 miles of trails, seven education centers, and scores of programs each year. For information, call 630-933-7200 or visit dupageforest.org, where you can also link to the District’s e-newsletter and Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, TikTok, and YouTube pages.