2009

The dedication of the Cal-Sag Trail takes place on National Trails Day, June 6, as part of the Burnham Centennial Project. The first Happy Trails Jamboree happens on October 2, to raise matching funds to develop the wayfinding and amenities plan for the trail.

2010

Senator Dick Durbin awards another federal grant, $450,000, towards wayfinding and other amenities for the trail. FOCST receives grants from Rails-to-Trails Conservancy and Coca-Cola Foundation to promote the Cal-Sag Trail.

2011

Award-winning landscape architect and planner Charlie Crump hosts eleven community workshops covering every town in the Coalition to begin developing the Cal-Sag Trail Wayfinding & Amenities Plan. Friends of the Cal-Sag Trail (FOCST) launches a legacy campaign at the first Bridges and Blues fundraiser at Gaelic Park in Oak Forest, featuring Lil’ Ed and the Blues Imperials.

2012

Charlie Crump completes the Cal-Sag Trail Wayfinding and Amenities Plan in June, defining the iconic bridge logo, the wayfinding system, and the dramatic arbor gateways for each community along the trail. FOCST hosts a second Bridges and Blues fundraiser.

Glen Szczypka and Jason Berry prepare to ride the proposed alignment of the Cal-Sag Trail after its announcement in 2012. Click here to view a photo gallery!

2013

The Cal-Sag Trail is recognized as a key part of Illinois’ Millenium Reserve. The third Bridges and Blues Fundraiser is held. The Illinois Department of Natural Resources awards Riverdale, Dolton, Calumet City and Burnham $1 million towards trail construction.