Englewood Open Space Plan and New E.R.A. Trail

A community-wide planning process at the grassroots level in Chicago’s south side Englewood neighborhood has undertaken a comprehensive plan to combine public open space amenities with green development. This multi-objective initiative is an outstanding example of the Centennial’s Green Legacy Projects because it expands neighborhood green space, adds to the region’s trail system and uses green infrastructure to renew a neighborhood’s environment and spirit.

The Englewood plan calls for: the transformative development of a two-mile New ERA (Englewood Re-making America) Trail on an abandoned, above-grade rail line; local “green” businesses along the adjacent corridor; and a mural by artist Rahmaan Barnes honoring the former rail junction community’s special place in 20th century American history. Numerous pocket parks and gardens are also planned to enliven commercial and residential streets and complement the elevated urban trail corridor. Several community-based organizations are sponsoring the plan, and Openlands is facilitating the planning process.

Centennial Partners: Openlands, Local Initiative Support Corporation (LISC), and Community Partners: Teamwork Englewood, Greater Englewood Community and Family Task Force, Greater Englewood Gardening Association, and Stay Environmentally Focused..

Funding for the Englewood Open Space Plan Implementation/New ERA Trail has been generously provided by the Gaylord & Dorothy Donnelley Foundation and Exelon Foundation.

For a print-friendly fact sheet on the Englewood New E.R.A. Trail and Corridor Re-development, click here.