The Forest Preserves developed the Gateway Master Plan (2015) to look at the role of gateways throughout our preserves in Cook County. Gateways are defined as signature sites that should be promoted as destinations to visitors.

The plan identified challenges and recommendations for signage, wayfinding, access and amenities. Twelve priority sites were selected through the planning process to look at opportunities to make the site more inviting to visitors.

The Gateway Master Plan is important to help raise awareness of special forest preserve sites, to orient visitors and to encourage them to take advantage of free outdoor activities and healthy recreational opportunities.

This planning effort received funding from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, led by the Cook County Department of Public Health, with additional support provided by the Forest Preserve Foundation.