Show Connector Trails
Trailhead Information
Access to this system of walking paths by car can be found via 3rd Avenue in Rock Island. Parking is immediately adjacent to the nature park. The park also lies along the Great River Trail and Mississippi River providing access to the expansive trail network in the area.
Description
It took seven years for the City of Rock Island to transform a blighted industrial property on the Mississippi River into this unique demonstration area for Retain the Rain, a program administered by the non-profit organization River Action. The natural area incorporates native plantings, bioswales, permeable paving, and other initiatives designed to educate the public about reduction of storm water runoff.
Buildings were deconstructed to form the architectural features of the natural area and to reincorporate salvaged material into the landscape. Materials suitable for reuse on-site were separated from materials hauled to the landfill. Brick was ground up and used as permeable paths, and precast panels were removed intact to be used as risers and walkways.
Other Information
Other Park features:
- Bald eagle observation area
- Interpretative signs
- Views of historic Sylvan Island, Arsenal Island, and Arsenal Power Dam
- Adjacent to the Great River Recreation Trail
- Parking available for the 64-mile Great River Trail and Sylvan Slough access
Trail Manager
Visit the City of Rock Island online for more information or contact:
City of Rock Island, Illinois
Parks and Recreation Department
4303 24th Street
Rock Island, IL 61201
Phone: (309) 732-7275
parkrecmail@rigov.org
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