2019

FOCST launches an effort to install custom benches along the trail as an important and needed amenity, and also to provide a commemorative or memorial opportunity for potential bench donors. Ozinga pledges cement for 12 concrete pads.

2020

In the first year of the pandemic, trail traffic counts more than double at Lake Kathrerine in Palos Heights, rising to more than 165,000 trips served. At Alsip’s Freedom Park, trips explode more than 700%. The Cal-Sag Trail proves its value as essential infrastructure for quality of life.

2021

Other recreation opportunities begin to open as pandemic restrictions lift. Yet trail users continue to visit the Cal-Sag Trail at a 25% higher rate than in 2019. The value of the trail—and the benefits it provides—grows with every new runner, walker and cyclist.

2022

FOCST receives the first 12 of 26 custom benches for the Cal-Sag Trail, and begins offering their placement as a memorial or sponsor opportunity to the public. Alsip Park District graciously offers storage space until the benches can be installed.

2023

FOCST coordinates installation of five custom benches with the Village of Palos Park, the City of Palos Heights, and Alsip Park District on behalf of the bench sponsors: Rich Ferrin, Sally Trimble, Bill Poore, Ken and Debbie Stoffregen, and the Oak Lawn Bike Psychos. Ozinga donates cement for the pads.

2024

Letting for the construction on the Halsted Street bridge takes place in Riverdale. FOCST celebrates 20 years of fun and hard work to make a vision of a trail across the Chicago Southland a reality.