Section 3040.APPENDIX A  Project Evaluation Criteria

NEED      –       35%

Population Served (proximity to high population areas)

Project of National, State, Regional or Local Significance

General – first trail in service area

Major expansion to existing trail system or significant additional trail in service area

Vital link between existing major trail systems

Addresses major safety issue

Identified in Trail Plan – State, Regional or Local Trail Plan

(consideration also given to unique situations having public support, but no plan)

PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF TRAIL      –       50%

Overall trail length as well as specific project trail length

Environmental factors/trail attributes

Scenic quality

Connect with other recreational areas, schools

Unique cultural/natural resources along trail

Adjacent land uses compatible

Development problems associated with trail (negative)

Safety hazards (negative)

Multiple use (equestrian, snowmobiling) bonus

User amenities available (restrooms, water, etc.)

Continuity of trail ROW

Access to Trail (convenient - remote)

Other trail user amenities/opportunities (picnic, camping, shopping, etc.)

DEVELOPMENT PLAN      –       2%

ABILITY TO MAINTAIN      –       3%

OTHER CONSIDERATIONS/FACTORS      –       10%

(Land donation, serves minority population, inter-governmental cooperation, safety concerns, economic/tourism benefits)

(Source:  Amended at 22 Ill. Reg. 4902, effective March 2, 1998)