Posted on: September 24, 2015

September 24, 2015 — The Glen Ellyn Park District is proud to announce the completion of an ADA accessible trail connection from the Great Western Trail to Ackerman Park. The connection was made possible with financial assistance thanks to an Openlands – ComEd Green Region Program Grant awarded to the Park District for $10,000. The trail will provide residents with an alternative access to Ackerman Park from the north side, as well as to the County’s bike trail system.

In 2008, DuPage County identified an Ackerman Park access trail as part of their updated Country Regional Bikeway Plan. The Ackerman Park-Great Western Trail Connection was created by constructing a permeable crushed limestone pathway from the bike trail, down the embankment, and along the turf area to connect with the existing asphalt roadway within the park.

Ackerman Park offers several passive recreation opportunities including a ¼ mile wood-chipped trail that winds through a wooded natural area that is used for walking and environmental education programs. Great Western Trail users will benefit as Ackerman Park provides a nice rest stop with many amenities such as: bathrooms, drinking fountains, picnic tables, fitness center, athletic fields, and a playground.