Welch Delivers Millions in State Funding for Maywood, Berkeley Prairie Path Improvements

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – House Speaker Emanuel ‘Chris’ Welch is bringing $4.6 million in new state dollars home to improve lighting and safety along the Prairie Path in Maywood and Berkeley.

“By creating a place for everyone to exercise, explore, and enjoy the outdoors, the Prairie Path contributes to the health, beauty, and vitality of our communities,” Welch said. “I’m excited to see state resources being used to polish this local gem, and invest in strong communities where our families can live, work, and play.”

The state budget Welch and House Democrats passed in 2024 includes nearly $140 million for the Illinois Transportation Enhancement Program (ITEP), which funds improvements to roads, walkways, bike paths, and more throughout the state. Welch and the Illinois Department of Transportation announced this week that the village of Maywood would receive $2.39 million in ITEP funds to support safety improvements along the Prairie Path, including improving lighting, pedestrian-crossing beacons, and other improvements. The village of Berkeley will receive $2.37 million to improve a pedestrian crossing at the Prairie Path’s intersection with Tract Avenue.