News Release
Forest Preserve District Awarded $1.06 Million for Blackwell's Cenacle Bridge Replacement
Illinois Transportation Enhancement Program grant helps fund replacement of aging bridge
The Forest Preserve District of DuPage County has been awarded $1.06 million through the Illinois Transportation Enhancement Program to help fund the replacement of the Cenacle Bridge in Blackwell Forest Preserve.
The project will replace the existing 100-year-old bridge — originally built by former property owners to access a retreat house — with a modern, multiuse bridge spanning the West Branch DuPage River. The current structure is deteriorating beyond routine maintenance and no longer meets today’s safety standards.
The bridge is part of Blackwell’s 0.6-mile Cenacle Trail, which connects Batavia Road with the regional West Branch DuPage River Trail. Its replacement is a certified 2019 Master Plan project.
“The Cenacle Bridge has connected people to nature for generations, but it’s long overdue for replacement,” said Forest Preserve District president Daniel Hebreard. “With this funding we can build a safer, more accessible bridge that strengthens our trail system and better serves everyone who enjoys Blackwell Forest Preserve.”
The $2.2 million project has also received $300,000 in federal transportation funds and $250,000 from the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity.
Engineering is expected to begin in 2025, with construction potentially starting in 2027.
The Forest Preserve District of DuPage County is one of 66 recipients across the state receiving a combined total of $139.2 million through ITEP. The program, administered by the Illinois Department of Transportation, supports projects that improve pedestrian and bike travel and promote alternative transportation options.
“Under the leadership of Gov. Pritzker, IDOT is committed to working with communities to improve local mobility options while strengthening the state’s overall transportation network,” said Gia Biagi, acting secretary of the Illinois Department of Transportation. “We’re proud to support these efforts by our local partners that create new opportunities to connect people with the important places in their lives.”
For more on this and other Forest Preserve District projects, visit dupageforest.org/what-we-do/projects.
About the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County
The Forest Preserve District of DuPage County improves the quality of life for all DuPage County residents. Its 26,000 acres of woodlands, prairies, wetlands, and waterways contribute to cleaner air and water, help with flood control, create vital habitats for wildlife, and provide safe spaces where people can boost their physical and mental health. More than 5.9 million people visit its 60 forest preserves, 175 miles of trails, seven education centers, and scores of programs each year. For information, call 630-933-7200 or visit dupageforest.org, where you can also link to the District’s e-newsletter and Facebook, X, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok pages.