Further news on the Hennepin Canal Trail and parts of the I&M Canal Trail
being spared from state budget cuts:

On Thursday, November 20, Gov. Blagojevich finally addressed SB1103,
affecting the planned closings of 11 state parks, many state historic sites,
and other state programs.  The bill to restore funding had passed the state
legislature overwhelmingly in October.  With his line item (amendatory) veto
power, the Governor cut out many parts of the bill while retaining others.
The $2.1 Million for staff at the 11 threatened state parks was approved.
However, the Administration announced that the funds would be used to keep
open only 4 of the parks:  Kickapoo, Gebhard Woods, Channahon Parkway - and
the Hennepin.  (Staff at Gebhard and Channahon maintain large sections of
the I&M trail)



The planned state park closings generated a large public outcry from many
groups and the Lt. Governor's office.  LIB's efforts focused on the federal
law protecting federal investments in state/local facilities.  Both the
Hennepin Canal Trail and I&M Canal had been recipients of significant
federal grants.  We investigated the law, publicized it to the media
(http://bikelib.org/media/HennepinNewsRelease20080908.pdf) and relevant
state agencies and legislators, and worked with the feds and Congressmen to
hold the state to their responsibilities.  We are pleased that our efforts
may have contributed to the Hennepin and I&M trails remaining open.



- Ed



PS:  Help LIB protect and improve bicycling in Illinois.  If you're not
already a member, please join at http://www.bikelib.org/join





Ed Barsotti

Executive Director

League of Illinois Bicyclists

www.bikelib.org