The Rock Island County Forest Preserve District has been awarded a $200,000 Illinois Bicycle Path Grant to continue improvements to the Great River Trail, a heavily used and scenic corridor along Route 84 that connects communities, natural areas and destinations throughout the region.
The 50/50 matching grant award will fund resurfacing improvements on multiple sections of the trail, including from 171st Avenue North to 192nd Avenue North, and from 206th Avenue North to the Rock Island County/Whiteside County line. Originally constructed in the late 1990s, these segments are due for upgrades to ensure continued safety, accessibility and long-term use.
“This grant allows us to reinvest in a trail that has served the community for decades,” said Jeff Craver, director of the county’s forest preserve district. “The Great River Trail is used daily by cyclists, walkers and runners, and these improvements will help preserve it as a safe, reliable and enjoyable resource for years to come.”
The Illinois Bicycle Path Grant Program, administered by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, provides local governments with financial assistance for the acquisition, construction and rehabilitation of public, non-motorized bicycle paths and related facilities. Funded through vehicle title fees, the program supports projects that promote outdoor recreation, alternative transportation and healthier, more connected communities across Illinois.
The Great River Trail is a signature recreational asset for Rock Island County, offering stunning views of the Mississippi River, access to native woodland habitats and a direct connection to communities and attractions along the Great River Road. The impending improvements will enhance trail conditions, extend the path’s lifespan and support continued use while prioritizing user safety and accessibility.
Construction is anticipated to take place late this summer through early fall. Additional details regarding construction schedules and temporary trail impacts will be shared as project planning is finalized.
Trail users are encouraged to stay informed by following the District’s website’s updates.
Rock Island County Forest Preserve District’s mission is to maintain and acquire lands in Rock Island County to restore and conserve them for preservation, education and recreation for its residents. The district is governed by the Forest Preserve Commission.
Today, the Rock Island County Forest Preserve Commission governs seven forest preserve areas spanning 2,659 acres. They include: Amôwa Forest Preserve, Loud Thunder Forest Preserve, Illiniwek Forest Preserve, Niabi Zoo, Indian Bluff Golf Course and Forest Preserve, Dorrance Park and Martin Conservation Area.
