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PROPOSED RESOLUTION
REQUEST TO AMEND THE NAME OF THE DES PLAINES TRAIL TO THE DES PLAINES RIVER TRAIL
WHEREAS, the Des Plaines Trail System winds its way for 28.4 miles through Cook County closely following the contours of the Des Plaines River and is a beloved outdoor recreation amenity enjoyed by tens of thousands of people each year; and
WHEREAS, the Forest Preserves recognizes that names play an important role in creating a sense of place and belonging, in honoring natural features, events or people, and in helping people find their way to the preserves; and
WHEREAS, the Des Plaines Trail System name currently does not reflect the important natural features that the trail highlights; and
WHEREAS, the Forest Preserves followed the Permanent Naming Policy adopted by the Board on September 24, 2019 (Board Item No. 19-0354) to request a name amendment; and
WHEREAS, the Forest Preserves recognizes that adding the word “River” to the Des Plaines Trail is more of a clarification, than a change, but is committed to following the process outlined in its Permanent Naming Policy; and
WHEREAS, Cook County residents were notified of the proposed name amendment via Forest Preserves’ social media accounts, monthly newsletter, and a press release sent to news outlets and partners throughout the County; and
WHEREAS, Cook County residents were invited to provide comment on the proposed name amendment via a web form that was open for more than three months; and
WHEREAS, an overwhelming majority of public comments submitted support the proposed name amendment; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that Toni Preckwinkle, President; and the Forest Preserves of Cook County Board of Commissioners do hereby approve that the Des Plaines Trail be amended to the Des Plaines River Trail.
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