hartford wood river alton godfrey elsah grafton 2007 corridor

Transcription

CORRIDOR MANAGEMENT PLAN 2007
MEETING OF THE GREAT RIVERS NATIONAL SCENIC BYWAY
funded in part by the federal highway administration
hartford wood river alton godfrey elsah grafton
2007
Table of Contents
table of contents
Introduction
3
Chapter One – The Meeting of the Great Rivers Scenic Byway 5
Chapter Two – Intrinsic Qualities
11
Chapter Two – Intrinsic Qualities: Scenic & Natural 12
Chapter Two – Intrinsic Qualities: Historic & Archeological 17
Chapter Two – Intrinsic Qualities: Recreation
26
Chapter Two – Intrinsic Qualities: Cultural 33
Chapter Three – Action Plan
38
Appendix
48
Appendix A – Byway Funded Projects
49
Appendix B – Evolution of the Byway
52
Appendix C – Byway Partners
53
Byway Community Mayors and County Board Chairmen
Mayor William Moore
Village of Hartford
140 W. Hawthorne
Hartford, IL 62048
618-254-5211
Mayor Marjorie Doerr
Village of Elsah
P.O. Box 28
Elsah, IL 62028
618-374-1568
Mayor Fred Ufert
City of Wood River
111 Wood River Ave.
Wood River, IL 62095
618-251-3100
Mayor Richard Mosby
City of Grafton
P.O. Box 287
Grafton, IL 62037
618-786-3344
Mayor Don Sandidge
City of Alton
101 E. Third St.
Alton, IL 62002
618-465-3500
Chairman Alan Dunstan
Madison County Board
157 N. Main, Suite 165
Edwardsville, IL 62025
618-296-4341
Mayor Michael Campion
Village of Godfrey
PO Box 5067
6810 Godfrey Rd.
Godfrey, IL 62025
618-466-3324
Chairman Pam Heitzig
Jersey County Board
24571 US Hwy 67
Jerseyville, IL 62052
618-498-2427
For additional copies of this plan, please contact the Alton Regional Convention & Visitors Bureau
at 1-800-258-6645 or 200 Piasa Street, Alton, IL 62002
Copyright 2007 Meeting of the Great Rivers Scenic Byway Council
TABLE of contents
1
Introduction
Introduction
Chapter One:
What is a National Scenic
Byway?
National Scenic Byways represent
a collection of travel paths and
destinations recognized by the U.S.
Secretary of Transportation for their
archaeological, cultural, historic, natural,
recreational, and scenic qualities. Local
byway organizations are voluntary
grassroots efforts that work toward a
common vision of promoting tourism,
conservation and preservation. The
program nationally recognizes and
supports outstanding roads and often
provides financial resources to help
manage the intrinsic qualities within the
broader byway corridor to be treasured
and shared.
The National Scenic Byways (NSB)
Program was established under the
Intermodal Surface Transportation
Efficiency Act of 1991, and reauthorized
in 1998 under the Transportation
Equity Act for the 21st Century. Today,
126 such designated byways exist
in 44 states. The Federal Highway
Administration promotes the collection
as the America’s Byways®.
The State of Illinois National Scenic
Byways include:
»»Great River Road
»»Illinois River
»»Lincoln Highway
»»Meeting of the Great Rivers
»»National Road (All American Road)
»»Ohio River
»»Route 66
What is a Corridor
Management Plan?
Corridor Management Plans (CMP)
address a wide variety of issues from
broad terms to specific planned projects.
The level of detail in a CMP is dependent
upon its role in the community and the
byway planning process. A CMP should
provide a road map for local community
planners and remind local residents
about the significance of the region.
It does not regulate activity, but rather
it inspires action. If properly used, it
will grow and evolve to serve the needs
of the communities and residents into
the future.
The State of Illinois currently operates
a strong National Scenic Byway Program
administered through the Illinois
Department of Transportation.
Illinois has seven National Scenic
Byways that work as separate
organizations, but collaborate and
cross-promote extensively.
INTRODUCTION
3
Chapter One:
The Meeting of the Great
Rivers Scenic Byway
Significance and Mission
CHAPTER ONE: THE
MEETING OF THE GREAT
RIVERS NATIONAL SCENIC
BYWAY
1.1 Significance and Mission
What is so special about this place where
three rivers meet – the Mississippi
and Missouri near Hartford and
the Mississippi and the Illinois near
Grafton? For centuries, people have been
drawn to this place and its abundant
resources. More than 1,000 years
ago, a Mississippian Indian civilization
settled and flourished here. French
explorers and fur trappers encountered
these waters, limestone bluffs, and thick
forests, and eventually claimed them as
their own. President Thomas Jefferson
initiated a visionary project to find a path
to the Pacific Ocean, which originated
at this confluence and became one of
America’s greatest adventure stories.
These rivers, primarily the Mississippi
and Illinois, continue to serve as key
north-south corridors in an important
artery for commercial activity and also
provide recreational opportunities. The
magic of every season brings nature
into full bloom along one of the most
important migratory flyways in the
world. The Mississippi River-- its rich
history, cultural heritage, and scenic
natural environment-- has shaped the
people and land of Southwestern Illinois
for thousands of years.
The Mississippi River is one of
the world’s major river systems in
size, habitat diversity and biological
productivity. It is the longest and largest
river in North America, flowing 2,256
miles from its source at Lake Itasca in
the Minnesota North Woods, through the
mid-continental United States, the Gulf
of Mexico Coastal Plain, to it subtropical
Louisiana Delta. “Mississippi” is an
Ojibwa (Chippewa) Indian word meaning
“great river” or “gathering of waters” – an
appropriate name because the river basin
or watershed extends from the Allegheny
Mountains in the eastern United States
to the Rocky Mountains, including all
or parts of 31 states and two Canadian
provinces. The river basin measures
1,857,840 square miles, covering about
40 percent of the United States and about
one-eighth of North America. Of the
world’s rivers, the Mississippi ranks third
in length, this in watershed area, and
seventh in average discharge.
Back in June of 1998, the Meeting of
the Great Rivers Scenic Byway received
both state and national designations.
Since then, the Meeting of the Great
Rivers Scenic Byway has been operating
under a mission to preserve the land,
interpret its rich heritage, sustain
communities along the route through
economic development opportunities,
provide travelers with a unique river
experience, and maintain an enhanced
quality of life for its residents.
CHAPTER ONE – THE MEETING OF THE GREAT RIVERS NATIONAL SCENIC BYWAY
5
Chapter One
Rivers Scenic Byway
General Management of the Byway
1.2 General Management of the
Byway
The Meeting of the Great Rivers is a
not-for-profit organization currently
comprised of 11 appointed members
representing each byway community
and county. These include one appointee
for each community (Grafton, Elsah,
Godfrey, Alton, Wood River, Hartford)
and three appointees from Madison and
two from Jersey counties.
Today, these members include:
»»Brett Stawar, Chairman (Madison County)
»»Matt Asselmeier, Treasurer (Godfrey)
»»John Pero, Secretary (Jersey County)
»»Bobbie Amburg (Grafton)
»»Deanna Barnes (Hartford)
»»Annie Hoagland (Madison County)
»»Tom Hoechst (Madison County)
»»Jim Ryan (Alton)
»»Jerry Taetz (Elsah)
»»Brent Thompson (Jersey County)
»»Fred Ufert (Wood River)
1.3 Public Participation
Through the update of this Corridor
Management Plan the byway has
expanded its reach. The byway has
developed a list of key federal, state
and local partners interested in similar
missions of the byway and its intrinsic
qualities (see Appendix). Annual updates
and two-way communication are hoped
to be continued through these partners
and new contacts structure. Many
land managers and those involved
with public and historic sites in the
byway corridor have updated their site
inventories and future plans as part of
6
this Corridor Management Plan update
(see Appendix). The byway also works in
coordination with the Illinois Alliance of
Byways representing all seven National
Scenic Byways in Illinois.
It will be important for the Meeting of
the Great Rivers Scenic Byway Council to
also be aware of other initiatives with the
Illinois River Road and Great River Road
Illinois scenic byways and the Mississippi
River Parkway Commission in larger
regional or national related efforts.
1.4 Meeting of the Great Rivers
Scenic Byway Community
Rights Statement
The Meeting of the Great Rivers
Scenic Byway is designed to benefit the
communities within the designated
byway area. This program is about
recognition, not regulation. Scenic
Byway designation does not require
communities to develop or adopt new
regulations or ordinances. Regulation
addresses only the installation of new
offsite outdoor advertising. Communities
within the scenic byway are encouraged
to participate in other funding
opportunities for byway development
and administration, as well as those
available through the scenic byways
program. Counties, cities, and towns
located within the scenic byway corridor
are not required to participate in scenic
byway corridor projects and programs.
1.5 Documentation of
Compliance with Existing Laws
– Outdoor Advertising
Outdoor advertising is controlled
by the Illinois Department of
Transportation, Illinois Title 92 Illinois
Administrative Code Part 522 – Control
of Outdoor Advertising Adjacent to
Primary and Interstate Highways.
Outdoor advertising within the State
of Illinois must adhere to federal and
state regulations. Upon scenic byway
designation, new off-premise outdoor
advertising will not be permitted on
sections of the Meeting of the Great
Rivers Scenic Byway that are located
along a primary or interstate highway.
That said, all routes of the byway
are primary so this law applies to
all communities. Commercial areas
excluded from the byway are located in
Wood River. Due to this exclusion, these
locations are not eligible to receive scenic
byway funding.
1.6 Context Sensitive Solutions
All byway projects follow the concept of
Context Sensitive Solutions. The Illinois
Department of Transportation (IDOT)
defines Context Sensitive Solutions as
an interdisciplinary approach that seeks
effective, multimodal transportation
solutions by working with communities
to develop, build and maintain costeffective transportation facilities
which fit into and reflect the project’s
surroundings --- its “context”.  IDOT
will work with communities to make
sure that planned highway projects
preserve the integrity of the scenic
highway. Through early, frequent, and
meaningful communication with byway
communities, and a flexible and creative
design approach, the resulting projects
should improve safety and mobility for
the traveling public, while seeking to
preserve and enhance the scenic, historic,
and natural qualities of the settings
through which they pass.
Aesthetics is a very important
component in the comprehensive design
of transportation facilities. This should
not be considered as an add-on to
traditional design, like landscaping or
decorative lighting. The totality of the
aesthetic value of the project must be
considered, including, but not limited
to, the concepts of project theme,
gateways, streetscapes and viewsheds.
Communities are key to identifying these
factors, and designers must work with
them from the beginning to fit the vision
of design excellence to the physical and
economic needs being addressed and
within the budgetary limits of the project.
Specialized professionals should also
be involved and consulted during the
development of the project.
1.7 Funding Sources
Designation as a National Scenic
Byway opens funding opportunities with
the Scenic Byway Discretional Grant
program. This program is available for
a variety of possibilities geared toward
improving visitor experiences. Funding
7
Chapter One
Rivers Scenic Byway
General Description of the Route
opportunities eligible for National Scenic
Byways may include projects such as
development of interpretive information,
facilities, pull-offs, overlooks, rest areas,
pedestrian and bike improvements and
highway safety enhancements. These
grants provide 80% of project funds and
require a 20% local match.
In addition, working collaboratively
as a byway creates a stronger case
for funding from existing grants
opportunities, especially in regard
to transportation enhancements and
tourism marketing.
1.8 General Description of the
Route
The 33-mile byway begins in Hartford
at the intersection of Illinois Route 3
and New Poag Road adjacent to the
Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center.
The byway follows Illinois Route 3 to
the intersection of Illinois Route 143,
continuing on Illinois Route 143 North
along the Mississippi River to US 67
in Alton, Illinois. Once in Alton, the
byway continues north along U.S. 67 to
Illinois Route 100. Illinois Route 100
bends along the forested river bluffs for
another 25 miles to its ending point at
Pere Marquette State Park in Grafton.
The byway is adequately signed with its
signature brown and green trailblazing
signs which signify the meeting of the
land and the three rivers. Communities
along the Meeting of the Great Rivers
include Hartford, Wood River, Alton,
Godfrey, Elsah and Grafton.
8
The three state routes that comprise
the Meeting of the Great Rivers Scenic
Byway (Illinois routes 3, 143 and 100) are
in good to excellent condition, have no
high accident locations, and have been
designed to accommodate higher levels of
traffic than presently exist on the route.
The excellent condition rating and good
safety record is the result of complete
reconstruction and resurfacing projects
undertaken more than a decade ago
from Alton to Pere Marquette State Park.
Illinois Route 143 was recently resurfaced
from Illinois Route 3 to U.S. 67 in Alton.
The Clark Bridge in Alton was opened
in 1994 giving the byway a new river
crossing. There are a few curves along the
route, but for the most part the motorist
will find the roadway relatively straight.
Since the entire byway is on statemaintained roadway, all segments
of the byway are evaluated as part of
the statewide highway needs analysis
performed each year for the state’s multiyear highway program.
Travel on the byway is safe.
Accommodations for bicyclists and
pedestrians are provided along the
Vadalabene, Alton and Confluence Bike
Trails that run parallel to the byway. The
byway supports actions that would allow
cyclists to return to a dedicated bike trail
wherever possible. The byway members
have also expressed favor toward
justifiable safety pull-offs and other
safety additions.
109
GODFREY
Riverboat
Excursions
GRAFTON
Visitors
Center
ELSAH
Piasa Creek
Mississippi River
Riverboat
Excursions
Clifton Terrace
Rest Stop
Piasa Park
ALTON
Visitors
Center
Clark Bridge
Rive
r
Missouri River
Two Rivers National
Wildlife Refuge
BRUSSELS
WOOD RIVER
To I-255
National
Great Rivers
Museum
Missis
s
ippi
Illinois River
Riverlands
Migratory
Bird Sanctuary
Lock & Dam
No. 26
Byway
Vadalabene Bike Trail
Confluence Bike Trail
HARTFORD
Lewis &
Clark
Interpretive
Site
367
To I-270
To I-270
Scenic Byway Map
1.9 Signage and Visitor
Accessibility
Visitor and Interpretive
Centers/Kiosks
Visitors are more comfortable when
they are geographically oriented. Maps
and signage accomplish this. Scenic
Byway funding provided for two gateway
structures, one at each terminus. The
northern terminus is located at the
northern boundary of Pere Marquette
State Park; and the southern terminus
is located just north of Lewis and Clark
Interpretive Center near the intersection
of Illinois Route 3 and New Poag Road.
Additionally, the Illinois Department of
Transportation has installed multiple
way finding signs along all byway routes
and on many of the byway’s entrance
points. Many of the Meeting of the Great
Rivers signs co-exist with the older Great
River Road Pilot’s Wheel sign.
The byway offers five excellent and
unique Visitor/Interpretive Centers.
Most byways struggle to fund the
construction of one or two small, wellplaced Visitor Centers, whereas this
byway has five centers located directly on
the byway. Along the route, four Scenic
Byway interpretive kiosks further explain
the significance of this area.
Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center
– At the southern terminus, the Lewis
and Clark Interpretive Center is a state
-of-the-art interpretive center which
educates the public on the history of
Lewis and Clark and their journey west
on the Corps of Discovery. The Center
has spacious grounds, a replica of Camp
9
Chapter One
Rivers Scenic Byway
River DuBois, plenty of parking and trails
to the river. The Center also sponsors
interpretive programs year round and
offers a touch-screen byway kiosk for
visitors.
National Great R ivers Museum
– The National Great Rivers Museum is
located in Alton. Operated by the U.S.
Army Corps of Engineers, the museum
is dedicated to telling the story of the
river, its people and wildlife through
interactive exhibits. Visitors can view the
Melvin Price Locks & Dam, gather on the
esplanade, pick up byway information
at brochure racks or on a touch-screen
kiosk, or participate in the many
educational and interpretive programs
offered here.
A lton R egional Convention and
Visitors Bureau – The Alton Visitors
Center is located near the center of the
byway at the intersection of US 67 and
Illinois Route 100. The center is home
to the Alton Regional Convention &
Visitors Bureau, a destination marketing
organization for northern Madison,
Jersey and Calhoun counties. The bureau
welcomes visitors each day to their office
where they can stock up on brochures,
ask questions about what to do in the
area, where to dine and receive assistance
making overnight accommodations.
specific to Grafton attractions, festivals,
and shopping.
Pere Marquette State Park Visitor
Center - At the byway’s northern
terminus, the Visitors Center at Pere
Marquette State Park welcomes travelers
with a three-dimensional map of the
park, gift shop and brochure information
center. The center also features a small
exhibit space with a large aquarium, and
a wealth of other displays concerning
the Illinois River, wildlife habitat, local
history and geology.
Maps & Brochures
The byway’s brochure and regional
visitor’s guide contains a byway map that
illustrates the many points of interest.
These brochures and guides are available
at all five of the above mentioned
byway visitor and interpretive centers.
Additionally, the byway offers interactive
mapping and visitor information on their
touch-screen kiosks and website at
www.GreatRiversByway.com.
Handicap Accessibility
The byway strives to remove barriers
for the disabled to participate in byway
activities. In the design phase of the
development of new projects, the
byway will try to ensure that handicap
accessibility issues are being addressed.
Grafton Visitors Center - Located
in the northern end of the byway,
the Grafton Visitors Center is locally
operated, offering travelers brochures
of the region and information materials
10
Chapter Two:
Intrinsic Qualities
CHAPTER TWO: INTRINSIC
QUALITIES
In order to be considered a byway,
the National Scenic Byway program
requires that a roadway must contain
significant characteristics in at least
one of the six intrinsic qualities. These
qualities are: historic, scenic, cultural,
natural, recreational and archeological.
The intrinsic qualities of the Meeting
of the Great Rivers Scenic Byway are
in a distinguished category, surpassing
the minimum byway qualifications.
The following chapter will present an
assessment of the Meeting of the Great
Rivers Scenic Byway intrinsic qualities,
their context and thorough inventory
of the points of interest related to each
intrinsic quality.
2.1 Maintaining Intrinsic
Qualities
The Meeting of the Great Rivers Scenic
Byway Council itself has no jurisdiction
over the 33-mile byway and its adjoining
public lands. However, it is the goal
of the byway council to work closely
with byway communities, government
agencies and private organizations that
do have management responsibility for
the byway and its lands to maintain the
Meeting of the Great Rivers Scenic Byway
at a high standard.
The byway council will seek to protect
all of the intrinsic qualities of the byway.
Nearly all of the sites along the byway
are already protected through state or
federal designation or ownership, or they
are operated and maintained by nonprofit organizations that are dedicated
to the protection of these valuable
resources. On the federal level, the U.S.
Army Corps of Engineers and U.S. Fish
and Wildlife Service play an important
role in maintaining the intrinsic
qualities. The Illinois Department of
Transportation, Illinois Department
of Natural Resources, and Illinois
Historic Preservation Agency provide
support on the state level. Locally,
entities maintaining the byway qualities
include Madison and Jersey Counties
and all byway communities (Hartford,
Wood River, Alton, Godfrey, Elsah, and
Grafton). The byway also works with
non-profit agencies, including Great
Rivers Land Trust, Alton Lake
Heritage Parkway Commission and The
Nature Institute.
The cornerstone of the byway’s
management strategy is a strong local
commitment to manage the intrinsic
qualities under local jurisdiction through
the enforcement of local zoning and
regulations. The corridor management
plan has no regulatory powers, but rather
it will be used as a guide to preserve,
develop and market the entire byway.
The Appendix contains a
comprehensive list of governments,
agencies, and organizations that are
directly responsible for protecting and
enhancing the byway’s intrinsic qualities.
CHAPTER TWO – intrinsic qualities
11
Chapter Two:
Intrinsic Qualities
Scenic & Natural
2.2 SCENIC & NATURAL
The scenic and natural qualities of the
Meeting of the Great Rivers National
Scenic Byway provide a heightened visual
experience for the visitor. Historic 19th
century river towns, islands, sand bars,
points and bends create the scenery
beneath towering limestone bluffs and
dense riparian forests that extend for
nearly 20,000 acres. In some sections
of the byway, the bluffs appear as
untarnished ancient stone tablets, and
in other places, the palisades might be
draped with natural flowering forbes,
grasses and wildflowers. Distinct
landscapes, striking views and the natural
features of the region, undisturbed by
human activity, contribute to the intrinsic
qualities of the byway.
Regardless of the constraints on the use
of the river and open space the existing
and future recreational resources and
cooperative efforts among governmental
agencies and private enterprise combine
to provide numerous opportunities to
experience the diversity of the river’s
recreational, natural, cultural and
historic values.
Scenic & Natural Context
Within a mere 25-mile expanse, the
Mississippi, Missouri and Illinois Rivers
come together in a broad floodplain.
This confluence area in Southwestern
Illinois, north of St. Louis, Missouri, is
the backdrop for the Meeting of the Great
Rivers Scenic Byway. The landscape that
surrounds the rivers remains natural.
12
CHAPTER two – intrinsic qualities
The byway is overflowing with
scenic vistas and wildlife in their
natural habitat. Scenic beauty can
be experienced along the byway from
points as high as McAdams Peak at Pere
Marquette State Park overlooking the
Illinois River to the quiet hiking paths
leading visitors to the river’s edge. More
than 230 species of birds, deer, fish, and
beaver can be spotted at one of the many
nature trails along the byway region.
Migrating American bald eagles can be
seen wintering along the bluffs. Spring
welcomes the return of thousands of
American white pelicans migrating north
and creating a sea of white against the
backdrop of the river’s muddy water.
Colorful fresh fruit and vegetable markets
dot the landscape in summer. The muchheralded fall foliage along the bluffs
rounds out the four-seasons of scenic
beauty on the byway.
Normal river traffic can also provide
some striking scenes of the American
river system. Working barges
transporting agriculture and other
American products on the Mississippi
traveling through the Melvin Price Locks
and Dam #26, pleasure boats out for the
weekend, and the five ferries (Brussels,
Grafton, Kampsville, Golden Eagle and
Winfield Ferries) transporting passengers
and their cars to historic towns on the
opposite shore all paint a picture of life
on America’s great rivers.
Many of the byway communities have
scenic qualities unique to their location.
Alton is known for its gracious historic
homes perched high on the bluffs and
antique shops lining the downtown
streets within view of the river. Located
at the confluence of the Mississippi and
Illinois Rivers, Grafton’s narrow Main
Street bordered by specialty shops, a
new marina, flea market, and historic
hotel capture the essence of a charming
river town. Known as the “village where
time stood still,” the village of Elsah is
one of the byway’s most picturesque
communities.
Scenic & Natural Points of
Interest
The following is an inventory of scenic
and natural points of interest listed by
community in the Meeting of the Great
Rivers Scenic Byway corridor.
HARTFORD
Lewis and Clark Confluence Tower
A 150-foot tower provides visitors with
an elevated view of the confluence of the
Mississippi and Missouri Rivers. It is of
modern design equipped with both an
elevator and staircase rising to three open
air viewing platforms at 50, 100 and 150
feet, providing a panoramic view of the
two rivers coming together. The tower
and view commemorates the point of
departure of the Lewis & Clark journey.
ALTON
Melvin Price Locks and Dam
From atop the Melvin Price Locks
& Dam, visitors can experience an
expansive view of the Mississippi River
and river traffic, eight stories in the air.
Visitors can watch barges push through
the locks from the Interim Control Room
as park rangers explain how the locks
& dam system works. While at this
location, bird watching can be enjoyed
from the esplanade area of the National
Great Rivers Museum.
Clark Bridge
The Clark Bridge in Alton, connecting
Illinois and Missouri, is a cable-stay
bridge, unique in its structure in the
United States. The bridge is named for
explorer William Clark, who helped lead
the Lewis & Clark Corps of Discovery
expedition from 1804 to 1806. The bridge
is a 4,620 foot gateway into the region,
adding to the overall scenic cityscape of
Alton.
R iverlands Migratory Bird
Sanctuary
The Riverlands Migratory Bird
Sanctuary is a 3,775 acre wildlife
sanctuary in West Alton represents
one of the natural areas in the region
preserved through the efforts of the U.S.
Army Corps of Engineers. Located across
the Clark Bridge, the Riverlands has
been designated as an important birding
area by the National Audubon Society.
The flora and fauna of the wetlands are
interpreted along the trails, and visitors
13
Chapter Two
Intrinsic Qualities
Scenic & Natural
will find a wide
range of native and
migratory bird species.
Abundant River Ferries
With five ferries in the region, ferries
have become part of the scenic
landscape of the region. Visitors can
drive their car onto the ferry, and enjoy
the ferry ride across the river. During the
ferry ride, the visitor gets a close up view
of the winding rivers, quaint towns, other
river traffic and the wildlife along the river
banks. Brussels Free Ferry is located
1 mile west of Grafton and crosses the
Illinois River to the Village of Brussels
in Calhoun County. The Grafton Ferry
is located at the intersection of Main
Street (IL Rte. 100) and IL Rt. 3 on the
riverfront. The ferry crosses the Illinois
and Mississippi Rivers to Highway 94 in
St. Charles, MO. In Calhoun County, the
Kampsville, Winfield and Golden Eagle
Ferries transport passengers between
Illinois and Missouri.
Gordon Moore Park
Rose Garden
The 1-acre rose
garden in Gordon
Moore Park features
an All-American Rose
selection of more
than 1600 bushes. 
The park is beautiful
throughout the spring
and summer when the
roses are in bloom.  In
the fall, besides the
late blooming roses, a
number of other late
blooming flowers dot
the walkways in the
garden.  The gazebo is
the centerpiece of the
garden, adding to the
scenic beauty.
Heartland Prairie
Located in the City
of Alton’s Gordon
Moore Park, the
Heartland Prairie is a
living example of the natural community
that once dominated the Illinois
landscape, particularly one of the best
and largest prairie grass restoration.
14
GODFREY
The Nature Institute
The Nature Institute is comprised of
nearly 300 acres of land surrounding the
Olin Nature Preserve on top of the bluffs
overlooking the Mississippi River. The
preserve is one of the largest privately
owned nature preserves in the state.
Researchers and scientists have identified
more than 300 native plant species,
more than 150 species of nesting and
migratory birds, as well as nesting and
den sites for the American Bald Eagle
and the endangered Timber Rattlesnake.
The preserve contains steep limestone
bluffs overlooking the Mississippi River,
sinkholes, ravines, bedrock outcrops,
small streams, a waterfall, upland forest
and loess hill prairie. Year round, visitors
to the Nature Institute and its protected
lands can engage in wildlife and prairie
walks, bird migration hikes and a
number of habitat hunting hikes to view
the wildlife indigenous to the preserve.
ELSAH
Village of Elsah
Nestled in the bluffs of the Mississippi
River, this quaint little village was the
first village in its entirety to be placed on
the National Register of Historic Places
in 1974. Once an important steamboat
landing, Elsah is now known for its
picturesque scenery found in the stone
cottages, tidy gardens and inviting inns
lining the streets. Elsah is a favorite spot
for byway visitors and photographers
looking for a picture perfect glimpse
of early Americana, or just a stroll that
inspires memories of the past.
GRAFTON
KAMPSVILLE
Two R ivers National Wildlife R efuge
The Two Rivers National Wildlife
Refuge, maintained by U.S. Fish and
Wildlife, makes up 8,500 acres of the
Mark Twain National Wildlife Refuge
Complex. The preserve is located just
north of the Brussels Ferry and the
confluence of the Mississippi and Illinois
rivers. The floodplain forests represent
land that has been untouched by humans.
Deer, waterfowl, wading shorebirds and
migratory birds are abundant at the
refuge.
The McCully Heritage Project
The McCully Heritage Project is
located in Kampsville just across the
Illinois River via the Hardin Bridge or
the Kampsville Ferry. The project offers
940 acres of hills and hollows, 15 miles
of hiking and horseback riding trails, two
ponds for fishing and turtle watching,
a wetland with a boardwalk and a hill
prairie plot. Wildlife inhabits the forest
and grassland regions, and wildflowers
and trees highlight the exemplary
preservation of the landscape. Visitors
can hike and picnic at sites throughout
the nature preserve.
Pere Marquette State Park
Set in the rolling bluffs just outside
Grafton, overlooking the scenic Illinois
River, the 8,000-acre Pere Marquette
State Park is a treasure-trove of natural
and scenic beauty. The scenic drive up
the flank of McAdams Peak provides
panoramic views of the Illinois River
and the valley. The park features five
distinct plant communities including
prairies, forests, fern-draped limestone
outcrops, and spring-fed streams with
more than 230 different bird species and
mammals. Eight different hiking trails
are available ranging from one-quarter
mile to five miles long. The scenic trails
take hikers to overlooks of the wetlands,
underground springs, an Indian
burial mound, atop peaks and through
dense forest and prairie where wildlife
indigenous to the region roam freely.
ALONG THE BYWAY
A merican Bald Eagles & Migratory
Birds
The return of the American Bald Eagle
creates an abundance of tourism activity
during the winter season. The byway is
a mid-migrational staging area (stopping
point) for hundreds of bird species
using the Mississippi flyway. The flight
of America’s national emblem along
the mighty Mississippi River connects
emotional and physical scenic sensations
for visitors to enjoy.
Fall Colors
The heavy forestation of the byway
populated with hundreds of tree types
creates a showcase of colorful beauty
during the autumn. The typical peak
season for fall colors occurs the third
week of October. Thousands of visitors
take relaxing drives and plan getaways
during the fall months to drive specific
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Chapter Two
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Scenic & Natural
scenic routes or hike trails filled with freshly fallen
colorful leaves.
OFF THE BYWAY
Edward “Ted” and Pat Jones Confluence Point State Park
(West Alton, MO)
Just across the Clark Bridge, visitors can drive about 7 miles
down to the actual point of the confluence for the Missouri and
Mississippi Rivers. A short walking trail will take visitors right to
the tip of the confluence.
More Scenic Views
Several scenic overlooks can be found
as visitors travel down the byway.  In
Alton, nestled among the houses of
the historic Christian Hill neighborhood,
Riverview Park features a beautiful sunken
garden, gazebo and breathtaking view
of the Mississippi River landscape.  Six
miles from Alton along the byway, Clifton
Terrace provides visitors with a resting
spot to gather information on the bike
trails, comfort station and an expansive
view of the river.  The Great Rivers
Park and Lars Hoffman Gardens offer
a peaceful retreat beneath the bluffs for
visitors to view the river.
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Columbia Bottom Conservation Area
4,318 acres of river bottom floodplains creates an urban
conservation area. The area includes a view of the confluence of
Missouri’s largest rivers, over 6.5 miles of river frontage, 800 acres
of forest and a 110 acre island.
ChapterOne:
Two
Chapter
Introduction
Intrinsic Qualities
Historic & Archeological
2.3 History & Archeology
The historical qualities of a byway
educate the visitor on the legacies of the
past and the elements of the landscape
with historical significance. These features
stir an appreciation of the past for those
experiencing the byway. The Meeting of
the Great Rivers Scenic Byway is laden with
river history related to Aborigine peoples,
Native American lifeways, and the early
exploration and settlement of the central
continent. Major archaeological sites
remain as a testimony to the civilizations
that flourished along these river banks and
inland valleys. Historical qualities can be
experienced through a host of interactive
museums, historic sites and markers found
along the byway.
Historic Context
THE CONFLUENCE: MEETING OF
THE GREAT RIVERS
confluence is the central cohesive point
from which all river life flows. The history
of the land and its peoples is derived from
the confluence beginning with the Mound
Builders of Cahokia and the abundance
of Native American tribes living along the
bluffs and rivers. The rivers were a critical
part of exploration for Marquette and Joliet
and the departure of Lewis & Clark and
the Corps of Discovery. The river was used
as an essential route for slaves escaping
to their freedom along the Underground
Railroad. The rivers played an integral
role in the industrialization of this region
through the use of the river to support early
trade, agriculture, quarries, steel mills, oil
refineries and manufacturing.
All the time the rivers have been
surrounded by picturesque limestone
bluffs, acres of lush forests, plants, and
flowers. The river banks are used as a
habitat by hundreds of species of animals
and birds. The confluence of the great
rivers is the course for everything that is
unique about this part of the world.
ICE AGE
The forces that formed the river can
be traced to ancient glaciers that pushed
their way down over most of Illinois,
stopping short of the land that is now
Pere Marquette State Park. In the path
of the glaciers and their melt waters, a
rich network of streams and rivers were
formed. Soil and bedrock were ground to
dust which rose and blew up against the
hillsides. These ancient layers of windblown soil, called Loess (pronounced
“less”) can be seen along the roads and
trails of Pere Marquette State Park.
Gradual climate changes over thousands
of years made the region an ideal
environment for prairie grasses and plants
which eventually covered two-thirds of
Illinois. Deciduous forest, dominated by
oak and hickory, held their ground along
rivers, streams and upland hills protected
from prairie fires.
PREHISTORIC PERIOD
The confluence area’s influence on the
habitation of the valley is as evident today
as it was 8,000 years ago. Beneath the
limestone bluffs, the Native Americans
inhabited the region for over 5,000 years.
At the Koster Archeological site, north of
the byway near Eldred, permanent houses
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Chapter Two
Intrinsic Qualities
dating back to 6600 BC were discovered.
Through painstaking collection and
analysis of seeds, bones, tools and other
artifacts, an accurate picture of at least 12
different prehistoric civilizations emerged.
These civilizations lived along the river,
using it for food and water supply.
EARLY EXPLORERS & TRADERS
When European and American explorers
and settlers entered the Mississippi Valley,
the land between the Missouri and Illinois
Rivers was densely inhabited by tribes of
Native Americans. French settlers and
British traders coveted the land between
the confluences as much as the Native
Americans. French explorers, Father
Jacques Marquette and Louis Joliet, first
made their expedition down the Mississippi
in 1673, seeking a path to the Pacific Ocean.
In 1773, British trader William Murray
claimed temporary title to the tract of land
extending from the mouth of the Missouri
River north to the Illinois River, on the
Illinois side of the Mississippi. Murray
gave the Native Americans blankets,
beads, cattle and “trinkets” amounting to
$37,000 in exchange for the land. Later,
Nicholas Jarrot, a prominent Frenchman
and landowner, laid claim to a large tract
of land on a portion of the same site. His
claim was one of the earliest recognized by
the United States land office.
GATEWAY TO THE WEST
When the Illinois Territory was formed,
the Missouri River was the gateway to
the unexplored west. The Illinois River
led to the Great Lakes and a potential
connection to the east. In 1804, the Lewis
and Clark expedition launched from
18
Camp River DuBois near the Wood River,
at the confluence of the Mississippi and
Missouri Rivers. Stephen Long journeyed
from Fort Bellefontaine, near the mouth
of the Missouri to explore the Illinois
River in 1816. Followers of frontiersmen
Zebulon Pike and Daniel Boone crossed
the Mississippi on a ferry that docked at
Glen Mary, now commonly known as Hop
Hollow near Alton.
WESTWARD MIGRATION
Early in the 19th century Native
American tribes had ceded much of their
land in Illinois. With the completion of
the Louisiana Purchase in 1803, St. Louis
and the surrounding areas, including
Alton were opened up to settlers from the
eastern states. One such settler, Colonel
Rufus Easton came to St. Louis in 1804.
Recognizing the movement of settlers
westward, Easton considered settling land
closer to the confluence of the Missouri
and Mississippi Rivers, an area that he felt
would be good for trade and commerce. By
1818, Easton had started ferry services in
Alton to carry supplies across the river to
settlers in the West.
The “Steamboat Era” played an
important role of the growth of Alton.
The first steamboat arrived in Alton in
1818. The rivers were the primary mode of
transportation, and the trip from St. Louis
to Alton by steamboat took about seven
hours. By 1839, more than a thousand
steamboats docked at Alton, typically
carrying corn, oats, wheat, butter, hides,
pork, beef, lard, lead, bacon and flour.
Before the Panic of 1837, land developers
platted and advertised town lots in Alton,
Clifton, Monticello (later Godfrey) and
Grafton, all towns along the byway. During
this same time period, Elijah Lovejoy,
martyr to freedom of the press, was killed
by an angry mob in a stone warehouse on
the Mississippi riverfront at Alton.
Around 1852, Louis Stiritz, a German
immigrant, arrived carrying grapevines
from the Rhine Valley. He chose Clifton
(now known as Clifton Terrace) because
it reminded him of his homeland, and the
soil was conducive for grape growing. He
spent years duplicating the terraces he
remembered and building a wine cellar of
hand-chiseled arched stones. Louis’ red
“Stiritz” became a local wine staple. His
terraces and wine cellar are a tribute to
the German-American Heritage in the
Midwest.
By the late 19th century, Mark Twain’s
Mississippi River stories had inspired an
ideal of Mississippi legends, history, and
culture in the minds of Americans. As the
nation grew and developed, many of the
towns along the byway were growing and
developing as well. Although many of the
towns that stand today seem to be nestled
somewhere in history, some of the byway’s
communities have been at the edge of new
ideas. Through preservation efforts of area
residents, much of the bluff area has been
preserved during the growth period.
CIVIL WAR ERA
Prior to the Civil War, Abraham Lincoln
and Stephen Douglas held a debate for a
U.S. Senatorial seat on the steps of Alton’s
city hall, facing the steamboat landing.
Held on October 15, 1858, this was the final
Lincoln-Douglas debate. Although Lincoln
was defeated by Douglas, the debates
paved the way for Lincoln’s future election
as President of the United States.
The Civil War brought more than
20,000 confederates to the region, many of
which were held as prisoners at the Alton
Federal Military Prison. The remains of
the prison can still be found at a historic
site in Downtown Alton. North from
the prison, visitors can pay tribute to the
1,354 southern soldiers that lie beneath a
towering monument erected in their honor
at the Confederate Cemetery.
INDUSTRY AND COMMERCE
From the Civil War through World War
II, the byway corridor attracted a variety of
industry and manufacturing that required
a convenient water source – the Mississippi
River. By 1912, the Alton Manufacturing
District along the riverfront boasted of 102
industries, and that number continued
to grow into the 1920s. The region
experience immense growth and became
highly industrialized to support industries
such as steel mills, chemical plants, and
oil refineries. Over time, railroad and
vehicular bridges were built connecting
Alton to St. Louis, Missouri.
Riverboats transporting goods had
always been common, but when the U.S.
Army Corps of Engineers constructed Lock
and Dam #26, as well as locks in other
locations along the Mississippi River, the
commercial traffic increased dramatically.
It was not until the early 1940’s that a
road for vehicular traffic was begun. The
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Chapter Two
Intrinsic Qualities
first portion of the Meeting of the Great
Rivers, also known as the Great River
Road, was finished in 1944 and extended
from Alton to the Jersey County line. The
remaining portion of the 4-lane segment to
Grafton was completed in 1966.
Historic & Archeology Points of
Interest
The following is an inventory of historic
and archeological points of interest, listed
by community, in the Meeting of the Great
Rivers Scenic Byway corridor. Many of
the historic and archeological features
in the corridor have received national
recognition with several sites presently
listed on the National Register of Historic
Places. These include: the Villages of Elsah
and Chautauqua, Principia College, City of
Grafton Historic District, Eastman Barn,
Pere Marquette State Park Lodge, and the
Center for American Archeology Museum.
HARTFORD
Lewis and Clark State Historic Site
The Lewis and Clark State Historic Site
commemorates Camp Dubois, the 18031804 winter camp of Meriwether Lewis
and William Clark. It was at Camp
Dubois that members of the Corps of
Discovery prepared for their expedition
to the Pacific Ocean.
The Lewis & Clark State Historic Site’s
main feature is an interpretive center
that contains a large exhibition gallery,
theatre and gift shop. The 14,000 squarefoot exhibit space contains six galleries
that outline the background and history
20
of the Lewis and Clark expedition from
its conception to its meaning for today’s
America. Perhaps the most interesting
feature is a full-scale replica of the
keelboat in which one side is cut away
to show how the boat was packed for the
journey. In the Convergence Theater, a
12-minute video presentation using highimpact visuals and surround sound tells
the story of Camp River Dubois and the
preparations for the expedition.
A “reconstruction” of the winter camp,
Camp River Dubois, is located on the
grounds near the visitor center. Its design
reflects 1803 U.S. Army regulations
for the construction of military posts.
Interpreters are on site daily in the camp
to explain how the men prepared for the
journey.
Confluence of the Mississippi and
Missouri R ivers
Just one mile from the Lewis & Clark
Interpretive Center in Hartford, a
dedicated road takes visitors to a location
to view the confluence of the Mississippi
and Missouri Rivers. Interpretation at
the site tells the story of the departure of
the Lewis & Clark expedition from that
point on May 14, 1804.
WOOD RIVER
Wood R iver History Museum
The Wood River Heritage Council has
worked diligently to preserve the town’s
past at the Wood River Museum and
Visitors Center. Documentation and
exhibits on the Wood River massacre of
1814, Olde Downtown, the Flood of 1915,
the World’s largest swimming pool, and
the impact of Standard Oil on the growth
of the community can all be found at
displays inside the museum.
Wood R iver Massacre Site
On July 10, 1814, Mrs. Reason Reagan
and six children were killed by the Native
Americans in an event that became
known as the Wood River Massacre.
Mrs. Reagan and her two children,
along with her sister Abel Moore’s two
children and two of William Moore’s
children were en route to the Reagan
Farm when Native Americans attacked
the small group and left them for dead.
The Rangers were called out and all
but one of the Native Americans was
found. The bodies of the victims were
taken to Vaughn Cemetery for burial.
A monument to the victims still stands
today at the site of the massacre, on
Fosterburg Road near the Alton Mental
Hospital grounds in present-day Alton.
ALTON
Melvin Price Locks and Dam #26
Each year millions of people travel to
the Mississippi River to learn about its
history and its impact on our nation. The
National Great Rivers Museum at the
Melvin Price Locks and Dam is dedicated
to telling the story of the Mississippi
River from its grand history and cultural
significance to its ecological importance
and role as a transportation corridor.
The museum features an exhibit gallery
packed with more than 20 interactive
and computer animated exhibits focusing
on the cycles of the river, nature, barge
traffic, water consumption and more.
In addition to telling the story of the
Mississippi River, the museum also
examines the history and development of
the locks and dam system. Visitors can
catch a glimpse of the Mississippi River
in motion as a transportation hub during
a guided tour of the locks & dam.
Upper A lton Historic District
As a cultural and educational center,
Upper Alton was once a separate town
from Alton. It is anchored by a former
military academy and is the oldest
continuously used educational buildings
in Illinois. The main street names,
Seminary and College, continue the
education theme in the area. Many of the
houses were built for the professors and
administrators of these institutions. The
neighborhood also includes the Alton
Museum of History and Art and the lifesize statue of Robert Pershing Wadlow,
the world’s tallest man.
Christian Hill Historic District
On the bluffs overlooking the
Mississippi River, Christian Hill was
developed from the 1830s to 1910.
Mostly antebellum Victorian houses line
these Alton streets with the occasional
older Federal-styled exception. Once
dominated by the prison and flourmills
below, many of the foundations and
retaining walls are built of the limestone
from the prison ruins. The neighborhood
was anchored by the Old Cathedral with
its towering spires and Riverview Park
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Chapter Two
Intrinsic Qualities
with its steep steps, sunken garden and
Victorian bandstand.
Middletown Historic District
Middletown was the center of wealth
in the early days of Alton. The homes
not only represent the prosperity of the
community, but the wealth of families
and their descendants that led Alton
society for more than a century. Henry
and East Twelfth Streets feature many of
the larger and elaborate styled houses.
Brick sidewalks and architectural
styles connect a beautiful park with a
victorian playhouse and an area called
Insuranceville.
A lton Museum of History and A rt
The Alton Museum of History and
Art provides interpretation of the
crossroads of American history in Alton.
The museum is located in the historic
Loomis Hall, the oldest building in the
state of Illinois continuously utilized
for education. One of the most popular
rooms, the Robert Wadlow Room, pays
tribute to Alton’s “Gentle Giant” and the
World’s Tallest Man. The Pioneer Room
explores the history of Alton from the
Lewis & Clark Expedition to the Civil
War with exhibits on Elijah Lovejoy, the
Lincoln-Douglas Debates and the “Alton
Route” of the Underground Railroad.
Lovejoy Monument
In 1836, Elijah P. Lovejoy, a
newspaper publisher, moved his
abolitionist newspaper The Observer
from St. Louis to Alton in the free state
of Illinois. Followed by angry mobs,
22
four of Lovejoy’s printing presses were
destroyed. On November 7, 1837,
Lovejoy was murdered as he stood
defending his press that was later thrown
into the Mississippi River. Today,
visitors can pay tribute to this martyr of
the abolitionist movement at the tallest
monument in Illinois, located in the
Alton Cemetery at Monument and 5th
Streets.
Lincoln-Douglas Square
At the corner of Broadway and
Landmarks Boulevard, two bronze
statutes depicting Lincoln and
Douglas pose in heated discussion to
commemorate the Lincoln-Douglas
debates. The final and most important
Lincoln-Douglas Debate was held in
Alton in October 1858. More than 6,000
people gathered at a temporary platform
in front of city hall to listen to the three
hour debate. Even though Lincoln lost
the election for senator, these debates
launched him into national prominence.
Lyman Trumbull House
Former Illinois Senator Lyman
Trumbull’s house is now a national
landmark located in Alton, Illinois.
Trumbull served as a longtime senator of
Illinois and a staunch Abraham Lincoln
and Republican Party supporter. Trumbull
authored the 13th Amendment for the U.S.
Constitution which abolished slavery.
A lton Prison and Confederate
Monument
The Alton Prison opened in 1833 and
closed in 1860; it was the first Illinois
State Penitentiary. During the Civil War
in 1862, the prison was reopened as a
military prison for Confederate soldiers,
southern sympathizers and Union
soldiers court-martialed for various
offenses. The prison was overcrowded.
Prisoners were malnourished, lacked
clothing and were exposed to diseases,
particularly small pox. During the war
1,354 confederate soldiers, 215 civilians
and approximately 240 Unions soldiers
and guards died at the Alton Military
Prison. Today, there is a small portion
of the Alton Prison wall remaining on
William Street in Downtown Alton. On
Rozier Street, visitors can still pay tribute
to the 1,354 Confederate soldiers that
lie beneath a towering monument in the
Confederate Cemetery.
Small Pox Hospital (Civil War
Memorial at Lincoln Shields
R ecreation A rea)
During the Civil War, a temporary
tented area and wooden hospital on
a Missouri island named Sunflower
Island comprised the first hospital for
patients of smallpox from the military
prison at Alton. Patients who died of
smallpox were buried on the island in
the vicinity of the hospital. Today, a
monument marks the gravesite of the
260 Confederate prisoners buried near
this site.
Piasa Park
On the edge of Alton, Piasa Park is a
small pull-off area adjacent to the byway.
It has been transformed into an attractive
stop for motorists, picnickers and
bicyclists. Improvements
include the installation of
a parking lot, restrooms,
overlook plaza, paved
walkway, kiosk and
gates in front of two cave
entrances. Hiking trails
and picnic shelters are
planned for the north
wooded side. The park
is set at the base of
the painted Piasa Bird
upon the bluff, a main
byway attraction. The
painting was recreated
by local residents under
the supervision of an
artist. A large granite
“arrowhead” tells the
story of the bird, which
according to legend,
Chief Ouatoga and his
20 warriors killed with
poison darts.
Underground Railroad
Before and during the Civil War years,
runaway slaves crossed the Mississippi
River seeking refuge along the banks of
the river in the free state of Illinois. There
were at least three “underground railroad”
landings between the confluences. River
bluff caves and heavily-wooded valleys
and hollows provided good hiding places,
as did the basements of residences and
churches in the Alton and Godfrey area.
Descendants of the slaves who settled
along Piasa Creek have retained land
ownership since the Civil War era.
Great Flood of 1993 Markers
The Great Flood of 1993 more than
made its mark in the history books for
the region. The eyes of the world shifted
toward the rivers as the waters rose
beyond their banks during this tragic
flood. All along the byway, visitors
will find additional interpretation and
markers for the Great Flood of 1993.
Many visitors note the flood levels at the
Alton Visitor Center and the ConAgra
mill in Alton where the levels are marked.
Additional flood markers can be found
in Elsah and throughout Grafton’s
downtown.
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Chapter Two
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GODFREY
Benjamin Godfrey Chapel
Located on Lewis & Clark Community
College campus, the Benjamin Godfrey
Chapel, built in 1854, has become a
landmark in the community.  This church
has been designated as one of only six
churches outside of the northeastern
United States that are authentic copies of
New England church architecture. The
chapel is listed on the National Register
of Historic Places.   
Sacagawea Statue
A beautiful bronze sculpture of
Sacagawea graces the campus of Lewis
and Clark Community College. The piece
was crafted by Glenna Goodacre, who
also designed the image on the Sacajewea
on the one dollar gold coin. The statue
commemorates the contributions
of Sacagawea to the Lewis & Clark
expedition.
Charles Lindbergh Site
A small building, once used by
Charles Lindbergh on his mail deliveries
between St. Louis and Chicago, has been
restored and moved to a site at Godfrey
Village Hall.  The structure was built by
Lindbergh in the mid 1920’s.  He stored
supplies and often napped inside when
bad weather grounded his flights.
ELSAH
Village of Elsah
The Village of Elsah was the first
village in its entirety to be placed on the
24
National Register of Historic Places in
1974. Once an important steamboat
landing, Elsah is better known today for
its picturesque beauty, stone houses and
lush gardens.
Principia College
Located high upon the bluffs, Principia
College is the only Christian Science
College in the nation. Built in the 1930s,
the campus and its buildings are a
masterpiece of breathtaking scenery
and architectural beauty. San Francisco
architect Bernard Ralph Maybeck was
commissioned to design the master
plan for the college campus. The design
and construction of Principia was the
largest commission in Maybeck’s career
and was, in his own words, “his favorite
child.” The entire campus is listed on
the National Register of Historic Places.
Visitors can take a self-guided tour of
Principia College in Elsah.
GRAFTON
Grafton Historic District
In its early beginnings, the city of
Grafton was a bustling river town and
center for riverboat traffic.  By 1833,
the Grafton Manufacturing Company
was started, which began a period of
growth for Grafton.  In the 1830’s, the
city welcomed its first general store,
butcher shops, pharmacy, hotel and
other commercial buildings.  Quarried
limestone was used for much of the
local construction found on the Main
Street.   Grafton’s prime location on
the river soon necessitated a boat
construction industry.  By the late
1850’s, everything from dredge boats to
steamboats and paddle wheelers were
being manufactured in Grafton.
Pere Marquette State Park Visitors
Center
The history of Pere Marquette
State Park, named in honor of French
missionary Father Jacques Marquette,
centers around the Illinois River. The
Visitors Center, located at the entrance
of the park, contains exhibits explaining
the natural and geologic evolution of the
area. A film commemorating the voyage
of Marquette and Joliet in search of the
passage to the Pacific Ocean is shown at
the Center.
OFF THE BYWAY
OTTERVILLE
Hamilton Primary School
Built in 1835, the Hamilton Primary
School was the first free and integrated
school in the United States. A monument
to Dr. Silas Hamilton, the visionary
benefactor of the school, is located at
the site. It was dedicated by George
Washington, a former slave who was
freed by his master, the same Dr.
Hamilton.
KAMPSVILLE
Center for A merican A rcheology
Museum
Just north of Pere Marquette State
Park in Calhoun County, the Center for
American Archeology is an independent
institution for research and education
in archeology and the natural sciences. 
The center is dedicated to discovering
and disseminating the unwritten story
of the humans that occupied the region
surrounding the confluence of the
Mississippi and Illinois Rivers for more
than 10,000 years. The Visitor Center
and Museum, housed in the historic
Kamp Store, offers a variety of exhibits
focusing on the 10,000 year pre-history
of the lower Illinois River Valley, the
archeological history of Illinois and the
history of the Kamp Store itself.
Koster Site
Located in the Lower Illinois Valley
in Greene County, the Koster Site is one
of the richest archeological sites in the
country, representing 10,000 years of
human occupation and a complex record
of the technologies and food sources of a
wide range of inhabitants through time. 
The site was home to many communities
and villages of 3300, 5000 and 6600
B.C.  Significant finds at the site include
evidence of one of the earliest house
structures in North America, one of the
earliest domesticated dog burials and
evidence of an extensive trade network.
From 1968 to 1979, the Center for
American Archeology and Northwestern
University conducted investigations
at the site and set the standard for
archeological investigations, as well as
reshaping how archeologists understand
the lifeways of prehistoric people. 
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Chapter Two
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Recreation
2.4 RECREATION
National Scenic Byway provides visitors
with numerous opportunities for outdoor
recreation, many of which are dependent
on the natural and cultural elements of
the corridor’s landscape. Biking, hiking,
camping, boating, canoeing, kayaking,
fishing, horseback riding, and wildlife
watching are all prevalent at points
along the byway from Hartford to Pere
Marquette State Park. Many of these
sites are managed through a network of
public entities including Illinois Historic
Preservation Agency, Illinois Department
of Natural Resources, U.S. Fish &
Wildlife Refuge and U.S. Army Corps of
Engineers.
The following section provides a
context for the various recreational
activities prevalent along the byway
followed by the points of interest
associated with each.
These activities include:
» BikinG & HikinG
» HuntinG, fisHinG and wildlife watcHinG
» Golf
» caMPinG
» HorseBack ridinG
» rec. BoatinG, PaddlinG & water sPorts
RecReatIonal QUalItIes
BikinG & HikinG
More than 60 miles of bike trails
can be found along the byway, with 67
more miles of trails in Madison County,
26
cHAPTER TWo – InTRInsIc qUALITIEs
connecting to the Confluence Trail
near Hartford, Illinois. The two major
bike trails along the byway are the Sam
Vadalabene and the Confluence Bike
Trails. There are various bike rental
shops in the byway area and bike rest
stops and parks for picnicking and scenic
viewing.
Hiking on the byway is just as popular
as biking. Pere Marquette State Park
offers approximately 12 miles of marked
trails that provide opportunities for both
beginning and experienced hikers. In
addition to Pere Marquette State Park,
other hiking trails on or near the byway
are Gilbert Lake Trail at Two Rivers
National Wildlife Refuge, LaVista Nature
Trail in Godfrey, Riverlands Migratory
Bird Sanctuary in West Alton, and the
McCully Heritage Project in Kampsville.
All of the major bike trails can also
accommodate walkers and hikers.
PoInts of InteRest: bIKe tRaIls
ConfLuenCe Bike traiL
The Confluence Trail is a 25-mile
asphalt trail built atop the river levees,
running parallel to the Mississippi River.
The trail begins on the south side of the
Clark Bridge, passes through the byway
communities of Alton, Wood River and
Hartford, as well as the National Great
Rivers Museum and the Lewis & Clark
Interpretive Center. The Confluence
Bikeway links up with the Sam
Vadalabene Bike Trail via Alton Trails
and with the West Alton Bike Trail via
the Clark Bridge Trail. South of Hartford,
the trail continues beyond the byway into
Granite City, Illinois, connecting with the
Riverfront Trail leading to St. Louis, MO.
Historic A lton Bike Trail
More than ten miles of historic
trails take the visitors along the brick
streets and through the hills of Alton’s
historic neighborhoods - Christian Hill,
Middletown and Upper Alton. Along
the route, visitors can experience a
number of historic sites and attractions,
including the Alton Prison, Confederate
Monument, Robert Wadlow Statue,
Alton Museum of History and Art,
Gordon Moore Park, Lovejoy Monument,
Lincoln-Douglas Square and Riverview
Park.
Vadalabene Bike Trail
Extending 20 miles from Alton to
Pere Marquette State Park, the Sam
Vadalabene Bike Trail runs parallel to
the Meeting of the Great Rivers National
Scenic Byway along IL Route 100. The
route is completely paved and takes
cyclists through the towns of Elsah and
Grafton. Comfort stations are available
at Piasa Park, Clifton Terrace Park, Elsah,
Grafton Visitors Center, Grafton Harbor
public restroom and Pere Marquette
State Park.
Points of Interest:
Hiking Trails
ALTON
R iverlands Migratory Bird
Sanctuary Trails
At the Riverlands Migratory Bird
Sanctuary in West Alton, hikers have a
choice of three trails. The flora and fauna
of the wetlands are interpreted along the
trails, and hikers will find a wide range of
native and migratory bird species.
R iverlands Trail
This trail stretches for two miles from
Lincoln Shields to St. Charles Street in
West Alton. Its multi-use designation
escorts hikers, bikers and joggers along
the Alton Lake and Ellis Lake. The bike
lane on the Clark Bride connects the trail
to the Alton and Confluence Trails on the
Illinois side of the Mississippi.
Two Pecan Trail
The one mile trail weaves through
the tall prairie grass of the wetlands.
As a learning tool, interpretive stations
explain flora and fauna to visitors.
Ellis Bay Overlook Trail
As the newest of the three trails, this
concrete trail is compliant with American
Disabilities Act. The 600-foot path
connects with the Two Pecan Trail and
ends at an observation platform hanging
above the river. It is a perfect location for
scoping wintering American Bald Eagles
and other birds.
R iverlands Way Trail
The trail is 2.7 mile combination
asphalt and oil and chip trail extends
from U.S. 67 through the Riverlands
Migratory Bird Sanctuary along Ellis Bay
and the Missouri Side of the Mississippi
River to the tailwater of Melvin Price
Locks and Dam at Maple Island Access
Area.
27
Chapter Two
Intrinsic Qualities
Recreation
Ellis Island Trail
The Ellis Island Trail is a 1.1 mile
limestone and gravel trail that extends
from outer road of U.S. 67 from Ellis
Island Access though the Riverlands
Migratory Bird Sanctuary along Ellis Bay
and the Missouri side of the Mississippi
River to the Least Tern Island. Parking
at the trail is available at the Ellis Island
Access. Trail is closed for Eagle Refuge
from December 15 through March 15.
Least Tern Island is restricted from April
16 through August 15 to stay 300 ft from
perimeter of Island.
Oriental Garden & Disability Trail
at Gordon Moore Park
Located on the south side of Alton’s
Gordon Moore Park, the Oriental Garden
features a bridge crossing over a pond
that is home to colorful Koi fish.  The
delicate waterfall and Pagoda in the
garden add to the scenic ambiance. The
garden is part of a 1/4 mile trail that
features gentle slopes and an adjacent 13acre lake with trickling streams flowing
nearby.  A native tree area, shrub area
and raised herb garden are described
in detail at each interpretative station. 
There is also an observation deck and two
curved bridges. 
Nature Institute Trail at Gordon F.
Moore Park (A lton)
This quarter mile trail guides visitors
through the largest prairie grass
restoration area in Illinois. The trail is
self-guided with 14 separate interpretive
stands to enhance the understanding
of the plants and wildlife along the
28
way, including the little blue stem,
Indian grass, yellow puccon and prairie
groundsel.
GODFREY
The Nature Institute & Olin Nature
Preserve Trails
With over 300-acres of land in Godfrey,
the Olin Nature Preserve has five miles of
trails to explore.  The preserve contains
steep limestone bluffs overlooking the
Mississippi River, sink holes, ravines,
bedrock outcrops, small rocky streams,
several springs, a waterfall, upland forest,
bottomland forest and loess hill prairie.
K emp & Cora Hutchinson Bird
Sanctuary
Sitting adjacent to the Olin Nature
Preserve in Godfrey, the Hutchinson Bird
Sanctuary features a .75 mile interpretive
grassland bird trail looping through the
sanctuary.   An observation platform
offers visitors a bird’s eye view of the 150
native plant species of the prairie.
L aVista Trail
LaVista Trail offers a one-mile trail
from Route 3 down to the Great River
Road.  The trail consists of an old oil
and chip road on the upper portion
and a gravel road on the lower portion. 
The trail crosses a beautiful wooded
area that is protected with a Forest
Legacy Easement through the Illinois
Department of Natural Resources. The
trail is easy to navigate with one steep
section that may offer some challenge. 
Glazebrook Park Trail
The one mile asphalt trail at
Glazebrook Park in Godfrey is a relaxing
ride by bike or stroll on foot. Winding
through the park, visitors can enjoy the
1-acre lake and numerous athletic fields.
GRAFTON
Two R ivers National Wildlife R efuge
Located just north of Brussels Ferry at
the Two Rivers National Wildlife Refuge,
a three mile trail runs on top of the
levee with the Illinois River and Gilbert
Lake on each side. Advancing through
the floodplain forests, wildlife such as
deer, squirrels, waterfowl, and wading
shorebirds are present.
Hiking Trails at Pere Marquette
State Park
Eight different hiking trails are
available at Pere Marquette State Park,
ranging from one-quarter mile to
five miles long. The scenic trails take
hikers to overlooks of the wetlands,
underground springs, an Indian burial
mound, atop peaks and through dense
forest and prairie. The extra benefit is
the sighting of wildlife indigenous to the
region. The trails are color-coded and are
clearly marked with paint on the trees
and signposts. Maps are available at the
park’s Visitor Center.
Goat Cliff Trail
The difficulty level of this trail is easy to
moderate, and it extends one and a half
miles. Hikers stand on the Cap au Gres
Fault and pass by underground springs
gushing out from under the trail. It ends
at McAdams Peak where hikers can gaze
into three different bodies of water and
see an Indian burial mound nearby. Dogwood Trail
This trail is a short half-mile trip that
loops hikers from the visitor’s center,
past a scenic outlook of wetlands and the
Illinois River and back to the visitor’s
center. Pawpaw, sugar maple and sumac
trees sway overhead along this trail.
R idge Trail
This is a quarter-mile long trail that
is considered the most difficult because
of its steep upward slope. It also ends
at McAdams Peak. At this spot, visitors
have a unique opportunity to look down
at the American Bald Eagles rather than
up at them.
R avine Trail
Running along the Ridge and Dogwood
trails, this half-mile route cuts deep into
the land and circles through the prairie.
During the fall, this is a great place to
search for elephant ear, puffball and
morel mushrooms. Little bluestem, big
bluestem, Indian grass and side-oats
grama prairie grass also grow in this area.
Hickory Trails, Fern Hollow,
R attlesnake and Oak Trails
These four trails all connect to one
another and total five and 3/4 miles of
hiking trails. They are more secluded
than the other trails and cut through
the oldest forest areas of the park. It is
common to see deer, turkey and some of
the many species of birds in this tranquil
and isolated part of the park.
29
Chapter Two
Intrinsic Qualities
Recreation
OFF THE BYWAY
KAMPSVILLE
The McCully Heritage Project
Located in Kampsville, the McCully
Heritage Project contains 15 miles of
cut trails. There are two trails that are
currently interpreted and mapped for
visitors. These include the Ridgeline Trail
and Grassland Trail.
R idgeline Trail
This one and half mile trail winds
through timberlands and overlooks the
river valley. Ducks, blue herons, deer
and other wildlife are often seen along
this trail.
Grassland Trail
This three mile trail circles through
grasslands, connects to the Ridgeline
Trail and features a scenic lookout
along its path. It then drops down into
grasslands with uncommon bald cypress
white pine trees.
HUNTING & FISHING
The number of natural areas found
along the byway easily lend themselves
to opportunities for outdoor recreation,
such as hunting, fishing and wildlife
watching. The byway is filled with plenty
of locations for fishing and hunting.
During prime seasons, fisherman line
the banks of the rivers and duck hunters
hide in blinds deep in the river’s center.
Additionally, many visitors are hunting
just to see birds, deer, beaver and other
wildlife.
30
Points of Interest:
Hunting & Fishing
Depending on the time of the year,
sections of the Riverlands Migratory Bird
Sanctuary, Two Rivers National Wildlife
Refuge and Pere Marquette State Park
are open to sportsmen for hunting and
fishing. Permits are required for those
wishing to take part in these activities.
Popular fishing areas along the byway
include: Swan Lake, Long Lake, Stump
Lake, Flat Lake, Fowler Lake, Twelve Mile
Island, Hembold Island, Dark Chute,
Hurricane Island, Pohlman Slough,
Piasa Island Channel, Alton Slough/
Ellis Island, the tailwater of old Lock &
Dam 26, Maple Island side channel & the
tailwater of Melvin Price Lock & Dam.
Detailed descriptions of the natural
areas mentioned above can be found in
Chapter 2.2.
WILDLIFE WATCHING
From eagle watching to the pelican
migration, the region is abundant with
species of birds migrating along the
Mississippi Flyway with opportunities
abound for observing and photographing
them in their natural habitats. Sixty
percent of all North American birds
use the Mississippi River basin as their
migratory flyway. In the spring and
fall over forty percent of the nation’s
migratory waterfowl are traveling along
the byway corridor providing wonderful
viewing opportunities. Along with birds,
the Mississippi River is home to 260
species of fishes, 38 documented species
of mussels, more than 50 species of
mammals, and many amphibians and
reptiles. A wide variety of this fauna as
well as flora from a variety of large river
habitats are readily available for your
viewing enjoyment throughout the year
in the Riverbend Region.
Trails and access points highlighted
above provide safe and dependable
access to the prime locations for wildlife
watching, which include the Riverlands
Migratory Bird Sanctuary, the Nature
Institute, Two Rivers National Wildlife
Refuge, Pere Marquette State Park and
McCully Heritage Project.
RECREATIONAL BOATING/
WATER SPORTS
There is no better place for water
park fun, boating, waterskiing, canoeing
and kayaking than on the Mississippi
and Illinois Rivers. Guided canoe and
kayak tours are available, as well as
canoe, kayak and boat rental in Grafton.
Excursion boats are always welcome
on the rivers, and marinas in Alton,
Godfrey and Grafton provide necessary
conveniences for leisure boaters. The
Alton Pool (26) is one of the most heavily
used pools on the Mississippi River by
recreational boaters and provides a great
location for fishing, boating, paddling
and water sports.
PADDLING
Participation in paddle sports is on the
rise in the United States. The Mississippi
and Illinois rivers provide a unique
paddling experience for visitors. Paddle
sports encourage healthy lifestyles by
providing a fun and exciting outdoor
activity that is heart healthy. Paddling
also provides a way to reconnect people
to the river and the numerous cultural,
environmental and historical aspects of
the river and river communities. Guided
canoe and kayak tours are available, as
well as canoe, kayak and boat rental in
Grafton.
Points of Interest:
Water Sports
Marinas & Boat Access Points
The region is home to three first-class
marina facilities in the cities of Alton,
Godfrey and Grafton, offering both longterm and transient slips.
Marinas
»»Alton Marina
»»Grafton Harbor
»»Piasa Harbor
Public Boat Access Areas
»»City of Alton, Public Access (by the Marina)
»»Lincoln-Shields Recreation Area (West Alton)
»»Teal Pond (West Alton)
»»Maple Island (West Alton)
»»Piasa Creek/Piasa Harbor
»»Grafton
»»Pohlman Slough (Calhoun)
»»Godar-Diamond (Hardin /Calhoun)
»»Glades (North of Pere Marquette)
»»Hadley Ldg.(Calhoun)
»»Long Lake (North of Pere Marquette)
»»Pere Marquette
»»Swan Lake (Calhoun)
31
Chapter Two
Intrinsic Qualities
Recreation
WATER PARKS
GOLF
Situated in the bluffs overlooking the
river and byway, Raging Rivers Water
Park in Grafton provides hours of
recreation with four waterslides, a wave
pool and “lazy river” for floating. In
Wood River, the Aquatic Center features
two waterslides, diving boards and an
Olympic size pool.
Eight golf courses in the region are
available to golfers, including an Arnold
Palmer designed and managed course.
The courses are considered to be quite
affordable and satisfying to golfers of all
skill sets and ages.
CAMPING
pere Marquette state park
The Class A campground at Pere
Marquette State Park has 80 sites, two of
which are handicap accessible. Sites have
electrical hookups, with a sanitary dump
station, drinking water, and a shower
building available on the grounds. Sites
2-30 are available for reservation from
May through October. Within the Class A
campground, the park offers two RentA-Camp cabins. The nearby Class B
tent camping area also has access to the
shower building.
HORSEBACK RIDING
Pere Marquette State Park offers
about 20 miles of equestrian trails with
a parking area for trailers on Graham
Hollow Road. The trails to the west of
Graham Hollow are open year-round.
The trails east of Graham Hollow are
open May through October. These areas
are posted when closed. The McCully
Heritage Project in Kampsville also offers
equestrian trails to riders with their own
horse.
32
PoInts of InteRest: Golf
» Belk Park Golf course - wood river
» cloverleaf Golf course - alton
» roBert wadlow MuniciPal - alton
» rock sPrinG Golf course - alton
» rollinG Hills Golf cluB - Godfrey
» sPencer t. olin Golf course - alton
» wolves crossinG - Jerseyville
» woodlands Golf cluB - alton
Chapter Two
Intrinsic Qualities
Cultural
2.5 CULTURAL QUALITIES
All of the communities along the
byway retain much of the same smalltown character from when they were
first settled almost 200 years ago. The
culture of the people of the region is
reflected through a variety of customs
and traditions that are evident in the
expression of art, architecture, music,
events and seasonal events.
The following section provides a
context for the various cultural activities
prevalent along the byway followed by
the point of interest associated with each.
These activities include:
»»Architecture
»»Seasonal Festivals
»»Music & Theater
»»Collecting
»»Orchards, Wineries & Farmers Markets
»»The Arts
Cultural Context
The beauty of the area has inspired
writers and artisans to write, paint and
sketch the striking riverscape, as well
as the 19th century historic villages
tucked away in the hollows. The byway
has a broad range of architectural
styles beginning with Alton’s delicately
detailed Victorian homes to the European
influences found in the architecture
at Principia College. Apple festivals,
historical reenactments, towboat festival,
block parties, antique and flea markets
and river town events are commonplace.
The communities also have a general
appreciation of theater and music.
Several organizations within the byway
corridor are dedicated to bringing the
arts to the communities with productions
of both local and national talent.
ARCHITECTURE
Visitors will find many examples of
architecture and in some cases,
extraordinary examples of late
19th century construction in both
Alton and Elsah. In Alton, there
are three historic districts listed on
the National Register of Historic
Places: Christian Hill, Middletown
and Upper Alton (see Chapter 2.2).
During the Steamboat Era in
Alton, the steamboat races of
the early 1800’s had an effect on
the early architecture of homes.
Driving through the historic
neighborhoods, decorations
and wood carvings, similar to
those found on steamboats, are
ornamental additions to many
of the homes. Also, there are
many houses with platforms on
the roofs called “Widow’s Walks.”
These platforms would provide
homeowners with a place to sit and
view the steamboat races on the
river.
Haunted Alton Tours
Considered to be “one of the most
haunted small towns in America”
by the Travel channel and Fate
magazine, Haunted Alton Tours are
available almost any time of the year.
Ghost hunting can be conducted
with guided tours of some of the
most haunted locations in Alton from
experienced guides. Walking, trolley
and dinner tours are available from
early Spring through December.
In other communities along the byway,
the architecture is still a reflection of
the culture of the communities. In
Elsah, inspired by an English village,
the stately architecture of Bernard
Maybeck can be found on the bluffs
at Principia College. Maybeck created
an English Village design that would
“express the spirit of home, or peace, and
33
Chapter Two
Intrinsic Qualities
Cultural
of absolute harmony with [its] physical
surroundings.” Elsah’s clusters of stone
cottages and tidy gardens have remained
virtually untouched since the village’s
early beginnings. The villagers of Elsah
strive to preserve their little piece of early
Americana next to the Mississippi River.
The summer homes of Chautauqua,
stilted fishing cabins along the riverbanks
in Grafton and the rustic limestone and
wood Lodge at Pere Marquette State Park
add to the architectural landscape of the
byway as an expression of the people
living here.
Conversely, there are parts of the
byway where the riverfront is lined with
grain elevators, rail spurs, barge storage,
and industries, coupled with business
parks in Wood River. These sites reflect
the industrial roots of the region starting
in the early 1900’s. From oil refineries
to factories, the industry of the region
continues to play an important role in the
culture of the people here.
seasonal festIVals
faLL Caravan
Scenic Byway is known as one of the best
fall drives in the Midwest. The Alton
Regional Convention and Visitors Bureau
identifies the best scenic routes to view
fall colors by providing fall driving tours
with directions, itineraries, and maps of
roadside stands, orchards and natural
areas for taking in the colors afoot along
the byway.
34
Godfrey Maze
Open in September and October,
the Great Godfrey Maze features 2.4
miles of trails cut into 7-acres of corn
in Glazebrook Park in Godfrey, Illinois.
Each year the park district selects a
different theme for the Maze.
BaLd eaGLes in winter
During the chill of winter, visitors
gather along the byway’s riverfront
to participate in the frenzy of eagle
watching. Visitors stop along the byway
or gather at designated eagle watching
locations to spot eagles. Eagles can also
be viewed from warmer locations, such
as the National Great Rivers Museum,
riverside restaurants, bed and breakfast
inns or wineries.
winGs of sprinG
A series of first-class educational
programs and entertaining performers
take the stage during this event. Guided
tours of birding locations on the
Mississippi River invite visitors to see
migrating birds in their natural habitat.
Guides discuss the natural history of the
birds, explain the ecology of the river
habitats, and help visitors become
familiar with field guides, binoculars, and
spotting scopes.
Mississippi r iver fireworks festivaLs
Annually, Alton and Grafton present
a fireworks display on either July 3rd or
July 4th. Other community festivities
often take place in coordination with the
fireworks display.
towBoat festivaL
During the fourth weekend in June, the
Great Rivers Towboat Festival in Grafton
emphasizes the importance of river
commerce with activities that are fun for
the entire family. Visitors have a chance
to tour a working towboat, meet the crew,
and learn about life on the river.
a Lton BLoCk parties
Alton holds a downtown block party
on the last Saturday of every month from
May through September on Third Street
between Piasa and State Streets. This
event brings the community together
with a wide variety of food and drink,
children’s activities, live music and
dancing in the street.
House tours
Several organizations and communities
host house tours. Pride, Inc. sponsors
a home and garden tour and June and
a Holiday Home Tour in December.
In October, Alton Area Landmarks
Association hosts the Historic Homes
Tours. Combining house tours with
festivals, the Village of Elsah sponsors a
Home of the Holidays event that includes
house tours, caroling, walks and special
dinners.
Lewis and CLark interpretive Center
proGraMs
The center offers a wide variety of
events related to Lewis and Clark and
the time period in which they lived,
including reenactments, exhibits, lectures
and historical programs. For example,
the Center sponsors programs related to
Lewis and Clark Arrival and Departure
Days, Life at the Camp for men and
women, Candlelight Ceremonies, and
children’s activity days.
pere Marquette state park
eduCationaL proGraMs
A full-time site interpreter and
seasonal interpreters are available to
provide educational programs to groups
of all ages. Hikes, recreational activities,
and other interpretive events are
scheduled on a regular basis, particularly
in the fall. Eagle tours are offered from
late December to late February.
nationaL Great r ivers MuseuM
eduCationaL proGraMs
Nearly every weekend, the Corps of
Engineers’ staff provides programming
to the public to continue to educate
the importance of the river systems.
Programming includes a variety of
interesting demonstrations, exhibits,
camps and outdoor classes on wildlife,
ecology, recreation and photography.
MUsIc & tHeateR
a Lton LittLe tHeater
Alton Little Theater has proudly been
entertaining audiences with live theater
productions since 1933. It is one of the
oldest community theaters in the state
of Illinois. Each season, shows include a
variety of comedies, dramas and musicals
in an intimate theater setting.
35
Chapter Two
Intrinsic Qualities
Cultural
A lton Symphony
The Alton Symphony Orchestra offers
a strong line of concerts to the area each
year. Sponsored by the Illinois Arts
Council, agencies of the state and Lewis
and Clark College, performances include
symphonic pop, cool jazz and children’s
concerts.
Greater A lton Concert A ssociation
The Greater Alton Concert Association
provides the local community the
opportunity to embrace the arts
by providing an annual season of
performances by professional musicians,
dancers, and theater from across the
country.
A lton Municipal Band Concerts
Twice a week during summer nights,
Haskell and Riverview Parks come alive
to the sounds of the Alton Municipal
Band concerts. Visitors bring blankets
and lawn chairs to enjoy the sounds
of the band for about 90 minutes each
week.
COLLECTING
R iverside Flea Market
From April through October (on
the fourth weekend of the month),
browse the unique wares for sale at the
Riverside Flea Market. Located in the
old Boatworks building on the river,
items for sale include a wide selection
of antiques and crafts, along with flea
market fare.
36
A ntique Districts
More than 50 antique stores in the
Alton Antique District offer everything
from furniture to vintage clothing.
Main Street in Grafton is made up of a
charming collection of nearly 20 antique
and specialty shops.
ORCHARDS, WINERIES, FISH
STANDS AND FARMERS
MARKETS
There is a wealth of orchards in the
area. A third of Illinois’ substantial
peach crop is grown in Calhoun County.
The hills, bluffs, and the Illinois and
Mississippi Rivers help to moderate
the climate, creating microclimates
that protect orchards from drastic
temperature fluctuations.
Growers also operate some blueberry,
strawberry, and blackberry fields where
customers can pick the fruit right off
the plants. Corn comes in abundance
during the summer months, especially
throughout Jersey County known as one
of the highest producing corn regions
in the state. Sweet corn, peppers,
tomatoes, summer squash and other
vegetables, as well as in season fruits, are
offered at roadside stands and farmers
markets throughout the summer and
early fall. Products available on the
byway are red raspberries from midJune to early July, blueberries in May
and June, blackberries from mid-July
to mid-August, peaches from July to
mid-August, apples in September and
October, pumpkins in mid-October
through November and Christmas trees.
»»Dean’s Market - Kampsville
»»Eckert’s Orchard - Grafton
»»Golden Eagle General Store - Golden Eagle
»»Hagen Family Orchard - Golden Eagle
»»Krueger’s Orchard - Godfrey
»»Odelehr’s Roadside Market - Brussels
»»Joe Ringhausen Orchard - Jerseyville & Fieldon
»»Tom Ringhausen Orchard - Hardin
»»Uncle Andy’s Produce Ranch - Grafton
»»Yate’s Orchard - Grafton
Fish Stands
Visitors have the opportunity to catch
more than just a bite to eat. The area
offers many well-known hot fish stands
and restaurants specializing in the local
flavor of fresh catfish and river culinary
delights. Local fishermen provide fresh
caught river fish sure to satisfy the
hunger for authentic fish cuisine.
Farmers and A rtisans Market
Every Saturday from June through
October, downtown Alton hosts a
Farmers and Artisans Market where local
growers and artists can showcase fresh
produce, baked goods, plants, flowers,
arts and crafts.
A erie’s Winery, Mary Michelle
Winery & Piasa Winery
Located in Grafton, visitors have the
choice of sipping wine from atop the bluffs
at Aerie’s Winery Pere Marquette Lodge for
Mary Michelle Winery or on the riverfront
deck at Piasa Winery. All wineries offer
some of the best regionally produced wines
with a perfect view of the confluence of the
Illinois and Mississippi Rivers.
»»
Jacoby Arts Center
The Jacoby Art Center in Downtown Alton is
dedicated to creating opportunities for artists
to pursue their arts and showcase items. This
three-story, 40,000 square foot brick building
was donated by the Jacoby family for use
as an art center by the Madison County Arts
Council in 2004. The first floor of the building
houses an art gallery, gift shop, classrooms,
performance and meeting space. The second
and third floors will feature artist studios and
a music conservatory when renovations are
completed. Art classes, rotating exhibits and
family activities provide an opportunity for the
community to have access to the arts.
THE ARTS
Hundreds of artists make their home
in the Meeting of the Great Rivers Scenic
Byway region and the artist’s showcase
event of the year is ArtEast, the Alton and
Edwardsville Studio Tour held every year
in October. During this event the artists
open their studios and display their work.
The newly opened Jacoby Arts Center in
Alton has special exhibits featuring local
artists, as well as providing classes and
workspace. There are also other private
galleries in Alton.
Rounding out the cultural experience,
the Village of Elsah offers several quilt
making sessions each year, photography
and painting classes are offered at the
National Great Rivers Museum.
37
Chapter Three
Action Plan
CHAPTER THREE – ACTION
PLAN
The six byway communities reviewed
many plans and thought through their
inventory of intrinsic quality assets and
aspirations for the future. This Corridor
Management Plan integrates or promotes
such activities into the larger vision of
the byway. This
plan also serves as
a clearinghouse for
existing facilities
and programs so
that communities
interested in
related activities
understand the
available resources
and work toward
complementing one
another rather than
competing.
hoffman gardens schematic
3.1 Byway
& MultiCommunity
Initiatives
Since 1998, the
byway has received more than $2.2M in
scenic byway funding from the Federal
Highway Administration in Washington
D.C. This amount has been matched by
local funds to equate to more than $3M
in specific byway projects.
Multi-Community Initiatives have
included interpretation and marketing
projects such as kiosks, brochures, a
video, podcast, touch-screen kiosks,
38
CHAPTER THREE – ACTION PLAN
an interpretative plan and website. In
addition, projects funded have addressed
visitor access needs such as public
restrooms, parking lots, and signage.
(See Appendix for complete listing of
byway projects).
The communities in the River Bend
Area in Southwestern Illinois have been
successful in receiving state and federal
grants that have improved the quality
of tourism attractions and quality of life
in the region. Just to mention a few,
funds have been granted for the Alton
Riverfront, the Grafton Marina, the
Grafton Visitors Center, the Hartford
Tower, preservation of land near the
river, the Vadalabene Bike Trail, the
National Great Rivers Museum, Lewis &
Clark State Historic Site and the National
Great Rivers Research and Education
Center.
3.2 Multi-Year Program Site
Development Needs
The byway is alive and teeming with
outstanding visitor attractions, such as
the new interpretive centers, museums,
viewing towers, parks and marinas.
Each time a new facility or attraction
comes on line, its developers have
been very conscious of the importance
of interpretation at the facility. New
wineries, bed and breakfasts, and
rental cottages have sprung up along
the byway. The latest endeavor which
benefits from long term planning has
been the recognition of the importance
of nature tourism. The U.S. Army Corps
of Engineers and the U.S. Fish and
Wildlife Service have taken the lead in
establishing accessible natural areas for
visitors to walk the trails and experience
wildlife up close.
The region and the byway plan to move
ahead on the implementation of the
projects listed in the Multi-Year Program.
The categories include the construction
of new facilities and attractions; parks,
boardwalks, and overlooks; hiking and
walking trails; beautification of the byway,
and the institution of new educational
and interpretive programs to meet visitor
expectations. Some of these projects
are large regional projects sponsored by
municipalities or governmental agencies
that will benefit larger populations.
Others are the vision of byway
communities to develop projects that
would appeal directly to byway travelers.
In either case, these projects benefit
byway travelers and regional tourism
warranting inclusion in the Meeting of the
Great Rivers Corridor Management Plan.
The following category listings
represent current and planned initiatives
for the byway sorted by category.
New Visitor Facilities and
Attractions
New facilities bring new excitement and
energy to an area and offer travelers fresh
visitor experiences.
• Riverfront Park and Amphitheater in
Alton will be completed within the next
couple of years. Roadways and parking
lots will be constructed, the river walk
will be extended, and a pedestrian plaza
will be installed at the Alton Riverfront
Recreation Area. Additionally, a picnic
area and excursion boat promenade
will be constructed along with extensive
landscaping. A pedestrian overpass
is being planned to complement the
park and amphitheater. Potential
interpretation exists as this overpass
follows the same route as the old Clark
Bridge.
• The Lewis & Clark Confluence Tower
in Hartford will be completed with
enhancements added such as fountains,
picnic area, landscaping, interpretive
signage and potential retail shops and
nearby restaurants. A new amphitheater
is planned near the Tower.
• The Lewis and Clark State Historic
Site and Interpretive Center, which
is managed by the Illinois Historic
Preservation Agency, will soon welcome
the washer woman’s cabin and craftsman
workshop, picnic shelters and a
playground. They will erect interpretive
signs and implement a naturalist program
guided by volunteers. Plans also include
natural interpretation and native tree
plantings, leading to future educational
curriculum.
Lewis & Clark
Concluence tower
• The National Great Rivers Research
and Education Center will be constructed
near the National Great Rivers Museum
in cooperation with the U.S. Army
Corps of Engineers and Lewis and Clark
Community College. The field station,
education center and esplanade will allow
39
Chapter Three
Action Plan
The Palisades Preserve
The Palisades Preserve encompasses
over 430 acres of bluff property located
on the Meeting of the Great Rivers
Scenic Byway. Through land acquisition,
a conservation easement and a land
management plan, this land will forever be
protected for environmental, scenic and
educational purposes. The Conservation
Fund facilitated the acquisition of the
preserve in collaboration with Great Rivers
Land Trust, Lewis and Clark Community
College Foundation and National Great
Rivers Research and Education Center.
The formation of the preserve will ensure
the continuation and expansion of river
resources for recreation and tourism,
preserve the natural and scenic beauty
and protect the numerous cultural and
historic resources in the area.
university researchers
to work in concert to
continue the study of
big rivers and their
ecology. Several new
outdoor environmental
education programs
will be developed as
well.
• Rocky Fork Heritage Trail may be
developed through the cooperation of
several communities and organizations
working together. Godfrey, Alton and
Great Rivers Land Trust all have an
interest in developing the Rocky Fork
site that celebrates the African American
heritage which has its roots in the
Underground Railroad saga.
• The U.S. Army
Corps of Engineers
through the Navigation
and Environmental
Sustainability Program
will further explore the
development of a fish
ladder for migratory
fish at the site of the
Melvin Price Locks and
Dam.
• Overnight accommodation facilities
are in potential plans at Piasa Creek,
along with improved landscaping. As
a result of the U.S. Army Corps of
Engineers working with the Great Rivers
Land Trust, a 10-year program designed
to reduce sedimentation in the Piasa
Creek Watershed is underway.
• The U.S. Army
Corps of Engineers
is working on
an expanded
multipurpose trail
system in partnership
with Madison County
Transit Authority, City
of Alton and other local
interest groups.
• The Hoffman Gardens project will
construct a park and memorial along the
bluffs in Godfrey. Landscape uplighting
will be used to illuminate the bluffs
at night to accentuate the geological
formations.
40
• The New Wharf in Grafton, formerly
known as Shafer Wharf, may be
renovated to enhance visitor experiences.
Final plans are not complete.
• A feasibility study will be conducted
for the potential of a Marquette/Joliet
Interpretive Center in Grafton.
• Land adjacent to Grafton Visitor
Center may be developed in cooperation
with the Illinois Department of
Transportation. This land could be
developed into a smaller scale natural
amphitheater and/or enhanced trail
system.
• Riverboat operators have shown
interest in the Grafton area for docking
a Riverboat to be used as a bed and
breakfast and restaurant. The possibility
return to the river study area
also exists for a new riverboat on the
Mississippi River for excursions.
• Main Street in the town of Brussels
will be reconstructed. Byway travelers
take side trips, via the ferry, to this
historic town and often dine at the
historic Wittmond Hotel. A log home
would be placed on city property
in Brussels as a new visitor’s site
development.
Educational and Interpretive
Programs
Interpretation further educates
travelers and residents, often clarifying
issues or placing them in historical
context.
• Several new birding programs are
planned along the byway, particularly
for the Lewis & Clark Confluence Tower
site, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers trail
sites, and the McCully Heritage Project in
Kampsville. Missouri Audubon expresses
interest in a more developed birding
trail and expanding programming
through their organization and other
collaborations.
• Interpretive events and programs will
be developed for the new amphitheater
in Hartford, such as storytelling, sunset
activities, and musical concerts.
• Over the next few years, the Madison
County Arts Council plans to refurbish
41
Chapter Three
Action Plan
the rest of the Jacoby Arts Center
building in downtown Alton to have a
music conservatory and studio space,
where the public could view artists in
action on the second and third floors.
Beyond the arts council, several groups
are interested in developing a thriving
arts district and artist relocation effort.
• The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
will further explore the development of
new films for the National Great Rivers
Museum in partnership with the local
community and other agencies.
• The Lincoln-Douglas
Sesquicentennial Celebration will be held
in Alton to interpret the famous LincolnDouglas debates through re-enactments,
exhibits and storytelling. As part of the
celebration, Alton is planning to link its
Civil War sites by developing a new Civil
War Trail.
• Improve education and interpretive
programs, increase fishing opportunities,
and improve hunter safety at the Two
Rivers National Wildlife Refuge.
• Godfrey plans to increase the number
of concerts performed, improve existing
festivals and develop a new arts and
crafts festival.
Trails with Interpretive Signage
Pere Marquette State Park has 8 great
hiking trails and most of the natural
areas have trails; however, some natural
areas need more trails or upgraded trails
and interpretive signage to support
wildlife watching.
42
• A number of trail connections will be
constructed on the grounds of the Lewis
and Clark Interpretive Center. A hiking
trail will be constructed from the Visitor
Center to the River, as well as a footpath
from the Visitor Center to the memorial,
once it has been reconstructed. A 12acre prairie will be rehabilitated and a
path added that connects the dry prairie
around to the wet prairie. A kiosk is also
part of this project and a possible future
maple syrup farm.
• The Village of Hartford hopes to make
improvements to their Camp Dubois
Bikeway to include streetscape, façade
improvements, lighting improvements
and new retail/service businesses.
• Bike/hike trail connections will be
constructed along Illinois 143 near the
National Great Rivers Museum and
Esplanade Recreation Area.
• The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
plans to facilitate development of water
trails throughout its service area to
include the Alton Region and Piasa
Creek. Trails will provide primitive
camping and day use sites as well as
safe access points for paddlers using the
trails. Specific sections of the trail in the
Alton Pool will include day use specific
trails, possibly near Piasa Creek.
• LaVista Park Nature Trail in Godfrey
will be improved by the addition of
outdoor educational facilities.
In 2007, the Meeting
of the Great Rivers
Scenic Byway was
named as one of
the “Seven Wonders
of Illinois.” This
designation was
achieved through
an online competition of attractions
throughout the state of Illinois that were
nominated and voted for by visitors. In
the Southwestern region of Illinois, the
field was narrowed from ten attractions
to two. Based on the popular vote, the
byway was named one of the state’s
wonders and has garnered significant
attention and awareness as a result.
• Arboretum Riverwalk Trail in Grafton
will be constructed. Enhancements
include replanting the river bottom
with diverse species of trees and prairie
grasses.
• All of the trails will be
upgraded at the McCully
Heritage Project in
Kampsville and a new map of
the trails will be developed.
• Sections of the Vadalabene bike trail
will be repaired and maintenance of the
trail will be continued.
• The Madison County
Transit District will develop
the Wood River Levee Area
roadway portions of the
Confluence Bikeway that
connects with bus transfer
nodes, park and ride lots,
and nearby population
centers. It is possible that
they will take over maintenance
of the Vadalabene trail through Madison
County.
• At the Riverlands Migratory Bird
Sanctuary, trails and overlooks will be
added to the prairie and marsh areas as
part of a self- guided nature trail system.
Existing and new trails will be
improved to include raised boardwalks
and viewing blinds at marshes and
wetlands where wildlife is prevalent.
Trail guides as well as interpretive
signage and panels will be developed to
enhance the self-guided visitor.
Multi-Year Program Site Development Needs*
• Hiking and biking trails will be
constructed on Chouteau Island by
the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and
MetroEast Park and Recreation District.
New Visitor Facilities
and Attractions
Educational and
Interpretive Programs
Trails with Interpretive Signage
Parks, Boardwalks and
Observation Structures
Byway
Beautification
2007
• Additional Excursion Boat Tours
(addition through locks and dam)
2008
• Lewis & Clark Historic Site Prairie Guided Tours & Interpretation
• National Great Rivers Museum New Film Produced
• Lincoln & Civil War Trail Created
• Lincoln & Douglas Debate Sesquicentennial Celebration
2007
• Water Trail in Pool 25
• Riverlands Heron Pond Trail Enhancements
2008
2007
• Downtown Alton Landscape Improvements
2008
• Alton Riverfront Park & Amphitheater
• Lewis & Clark Confluence Tower
• Lewis & Clark Historic Site Wash Woman’s Cabin
• USACE Multipurpose Trail System Expanded
2009/2010
• National Great Rivers Research & Education Center
• Mel Price Fish Ladder Report
2008
• Alton Wetland Trail
• Marquette & Joliet Boardwalk
in Grafton
• Water Trail in Pool 26
• Riverlands Trail Guide Developed
• Hoffman Gardens (various
phases through 2010)
• Riverlands Boardwalks Phase I
2009
• Riverlands Boardwalks Phase 2
2008
• Grafton Lighthouse
• Alton Landscape Architecture
Plan Developed (phased implementation)
2009
• Piasa Creek Water Trail Developed
• Lewis & Clark Historic Site Walking Trail, Playground and Picnic Shelter
*Many of the projects in this plan have multiple variables that may affect completion. However, this graph represents a few related byway projects that provided a
more defined timeframe.
43
Chapter Three:
Action Plan
• A new access road as well as trails and
interpretive signage are scheduled for
American Bottom in Madison County. A
habitat restoration project will also be
implemented. All work is funded by the
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
• A bicycle comfort station will be
constructed on the campus of Lewis and
Clark Community College.
Parks, Boardwalks and Observation
Structures
Raised boardwalks and observation
structures improve visitor safety and
enjoyment while helping to preserve
wildlife and plant habitat.
• Piasa Park enhancements such as
a picnic area, shelter and observation
deck will be constructed. The final
phase of park development will include
a new trail, a new lawn, plantings, and
interpretive signage. Actions will also
be taken to preserve the pond area.
Currently, plans are underway to repaint
the Piasa Bird mural.
• Community park improvements are
planned in both Alton and Godfrey.
• Enhancements are planned for
Brussels Heritage Park, which is located
across the river from the byway.
Byway Beautification
The byway is a natural area of rivers,
forests and wildlife. Volunteer efforts to
sponsor special plantings and clean up
days are planned for the future.
• Pride, Incorporated is a local,
non-profit organization in Godfrey
dedicated to community clean up and
beautification. This organization plans
annual and regular tree planting and
beautification projects along the byway.
• Plans exist to develop the property
across from the Great Rivers Park along
the riverside in Godfrey.
• An Alton committee volunteer group
has scheduled flower and landscape
planting projects. Alton plans to work
with a landscape architect to design
special landscapes for the byway from
the National Great Rivers Museum to
Piasa Park. Other areas designated for
landscaping would include Third Street,
Broadway, and the Lovejoy Monument
area.
• A Marquette/Joliet Wetland
Boardwalk will be constructed in Grafton,
reconnecting visitors to the riverfront.
• Many of the gardens at Lewis and
Clark Community College in Godfrey will
be expanded.
• A Clifton Terrace lookout will be
constructed as part of Clifton Terrace
Park along the riverside in Godfrey.
44
• Observation decks and new trails
are planned at the Two Rivers National
Wildlife Refuge to boost wildlife
photography and wildlife watching.
3.3 Support Future Regional
Development that Enhances
the Byway
The byway region continues to connect
its residents and travelers to the river. In
turn, the byway derives multiple benefits
from the community’s good planning,
thoughtful design and high quality
construction. In collaboration with other
groups, projects such as the Return to the
River Plan have begun to take shape.
The preliminary plan includes several
improvement projects within the whole
scheme of the Riverfront Development
of Alton as a commercial, historic,
recreational, entertainment hub of the
Meeting of the Great Rivers area. The
centerpiece of the program is Alton’s
Riverfront Park which contains a marina,
boat launch, riverboat landing, riverwalk
promenade, amphitheater, entertainment
venue, pedestrian plaza, potential hotel
and conference center, a pedestrian
bridge that connects people from
landside to riverside walkway, parking,
and open space along with many other
amenities.
A second component of the program
is to energize Alton’s downtown with
new streetscape improvements, facades,
lighting, signage, site furniture, and
pavers. Loft units in the downtown area
continue to expand along with the desire
to attract, more artisan and craftsman
studios and a potential antique trail.
A third component of the program
is the development of land near the
National Great Rivers Museum and
Locks and Dam #26. Plans are to build a
field station for big river research, create
potential opportunities for projects such
as interpretation of wildlife habitat, a
stormwater exhibit, a fish ladder exhibit,
a water taxi dock, and even a possible
riverside café. The river bank would be
enhanced with the planting of trees.
3.4 Preserve Byway Qualities
and Minimize Irregular
Intrusions
The beauty of the Meeting of the Great
Rivers Scenic Byway contains itself
throughout its length of only 33 miles,
and it uniquely encompasses several
different types of land uses. It is a
network of developmental nodes along
a linear route where the underlying link
is the scenic byway and the river. In the
southern portion of the byway, there
is a strong commercial/industrial zone
anchored by Hartford, Wood River and
Alton. Other lighter commercial nodes
are Godfrey, and Grafton. Interspersed
on and between the lighter commercial
zones are areas more closely associated
with preservation and recreation
anchored by the Village of Elsah and Pere
Marquette State Park.
To quote the byway’s brochure,
“the beauty of the region is a
masterpiece of nature with whistling
birds, colorful trees, unique plants, and
etched river bluffs where eagles soar and
pelicans migrate. Astounding views can
be seen as you follow the bends of the
river as it flows beside the byway.”
45
Chapter Three:
Action Plan
Preserving what exists here is a major
priority. History tells us that residents,
government agencies, local communities,
and preservation organizations have
worked long and hard to preserve
these intrinsic qualities and unique
quality of life.
Preserving open lands, our nation’s
wildlife and forests is paramount because
once it is gone, we will not be able to
restore it. The byway desires to keep
what the region is known for as a place
to be revered. People visit the region
for one of a kind experiences through
protected natural areas, lands devoted to
recreation, uncluttered scenic views, and
the all American town lifestyle.
For these reasons, the byway will
continue to protect those intrinsic
qualities that made byway designation
possible and minimize unnatural
intrusions upon the landscape.
3.5 Interpretation & Education
Through a scenic byways grant,
an interpretation plan for the byway
has been funded. Good to excellent
interpretation already exists along the
byway in the larger, state of the art
visitor centers and museums. Even the
byway’s smaller parks and rest stops
have done well in providing interpretive
signage. The trailblazing sign has
been designed and the signs have been
erected. However, there are still pockets
of development that are in need of
interpretation.
46
Because of the amount of
interpretation that already exists, the
byway is interested in developing an
interpretive umbrella under which all of
the existing interpretation can mutually
exist. The interpretive plan would also
address the type of interpretation the
byway could offer or partner with other
active governmental agencies
and organizations already working
along the byway.
The plan will evaluate existing
interpretation along the byway, as well as
long range plans for new attractions and
interpretation for new facilities.
Interpretive plans already exist for
the Great River Road Scenic Byway
in Illinois and the Great River Road
as overseen by the Mississippi River
Parkway Commission. Universal themes
contained in these two plans will be
applicable for the Meeting of the Great
Rivers Scenic Byway. However, the
media chosen to interpret universal
themes will be unique to this byway.
3.6 Branding the Byway
The Alton Regional Convention &
Visitors Bureau (CVB) leads marketing
and communication efforts for the
byway. As a state certified bureau, they
are able to collaborate with the Illinois
Bureau of Tourism and the Scenic
Byways Program marketing staff
to provide unique marketing
campaigns specifically tailored for
the byway travelers. 
Since the byway’s inception, the Alton
Regional CVB has coordinated many
marketing communications outcomes,
including projects such as:
» Byway BrocHures
» Podcast tours
» radio Broadcasts
» Media relations resultinG in national, reGional
and local Media PlaceMents
» visitor center services and traininG
» toucH screen kiosk develoPMent
» cooPerative MarketinG strateGies witH six otHer
illinois Byways
» video
» visitor Guide
» siGnaGe
» advertisinG caMPaiGns
» weBsite (fHwa uPdates & GreatriversByway.coM)
In addition to providing marketing
support, the CVB has provided strategic
direction for public involvement. The
CVB staff brings a long and successful
history of tourism experience to
the byway. Specifically for byway
communities and their hospitality
partners, the CVB works to bring
thousands of visitors to the region each
year through tactics such as tradeshow
representation, familiarization tours,
special event promotion and much
more. All byway hospitality partners
receive regular updates on group
travel and leads for new business in
the group travel areas. The CVB works
with partners on state and federal grant
opportunities. The CVB continues to plan
tactical communication campaigns that
align with the mission of the byway and
broaden the outreach and involvement of
the byway to key federal, state and local
partners.
3.7 Action Summary
The byway will forge into the
future by first holding to one of its
main tenants of preserving the land
and its intrinsic qualities for future
generations, and secondly, supporting
well planned regional development that
fits the byway’s philosophy of
economic development through
tourism.
The effectiveness of the
Meeting of the Great Rivers
Scenic Byway relies upon the
ability of its members to involve
partners and the community,
collaborate with larger state and
regional initiatives and stay true
to the mission to…preserve the
land, interpret its rich heritage,
sustain communities along
the route through economic
development opportunities,
provide travelers with a unique
river experience and maintain an
enhanced quality of life for its residents.
cHAPTER THREE – AcTIon PLAn
47
Appendix
Appendix A – Byway Funded Projects
49
Appendix B – Evolution of the meeting
of the great rivers Byway
52
Appendix C – Byway Partners
53
Intrinsic Qualities
Site inventories are available electronically by contacting the
Alton Regional Convention & Visitors Bureau at 1-800-258-6645 or
(618) 465-6676.
48
appendix
A
Appendix A
Byway Funded Projects
Meeting of the Great Rivers projects funded through the
Federal Highway Administration Scenic Byways Program 1997-2006.
All federal funds are matched at a 20% contribution level with local or state funds.
Project Type and Project Name Project Components Federal Funds Year
Enhancements to a Large
Regional Byway Project
Lewis and Clark Confluence Tower in Hartford
Pedestrian plaza, restroom,
bike trail connector to the
tower, and landscaping.
$450,000
2003
$382,608
1997
Byway Parks and Rest Stops
Clifton Terrace Rest AreaConstruction of the park/rest area with pedestrian plaza
and interpretation.
Piasa Park in Alton
Restroom, parking area, pedestrian plaza, stone walls,
interpretation, and landscaping.
$250,000
2000
Interpretive Projects
Sign Plan and Signs
Design and manufacturing of two gateway signs and 100
trailblazing signs, as well as a
sign for the Grafton Visitor Center.
$128,000
1998
Four Kiosks
Design and construct four stone
kiosks with interpretive information.
Kiosks are located at Broadway and
Piasa in Alton, Norman’s Landing
pull-off north of Alton, Springfield
and Main Sts. in Grafton and at the
entrance to the Brussels Ferry north
of Grafton.
$121,600
1999
Design Guidelines Manual
Design guidelines report published which recommended design
standards for public facilities along
the byway, such as visitor centers,
restrooms, outdoor lighting, etc.
$ 54,000
1998
appendix A – byway funded projects
49
A
Appendix A
Byway Funded Projects
Brochure and Video
Design and print a byway brochure, and create a CD showing the beauty
and historic significance of the byway.
$20,800
1999
$ 90,000
2000
Marketing Program
Develop website, direct mail campaigns, $78,400
seasonal group travel ad campaigns
and Midwest leisure travel advertising
campaigns.
2005
Interpretive Plan
Develop an interpretive plan which outlines the universal interpretive themes
and recommends the type of media to
best educate the public on the
significance and context of a particular
site or attraction.
$40,000
2006
America’s Byways Signage
Manufacture and erect universal sign used for all national byways.
$17,000
2006
Trails
LaVista Park Nature Trail in Godfrey
Hiking trail in a natural area in Godfrey
that can be accessed from the byway
near Clifton Terrace Rest Area.
$189,600
2003
Marquette/Joliet Wetlands Nature Boardwalk in Grafton
A boardwalk near the river which will
educate visitors about wetlands through
the use of interpretive signage.
$56,000
2005
Alton Wetland Trail in Alton
A trail, observation decks and interpretation in a natural area in Alton.
$25,600
2006
Marketing Program
Ad placement in national magazines
and newspapers to promote the
byway. Purchase three touch screen
kiosks for placement at visitor centers.
New photography of byway attractions
and activities for use in preparing
marketing materials.
50
appendix a – byway funded projects
Restrooms
Grafton and Elsah Restrooms
Restrooms at the marina in Grafton and in Elsah for public use.
$213,000
1999
Kampsville Restroom
Restroom near park in Kampsville
for public use.
$144,000
2000
Clifton Terrace Restrooom
Restroom at Clifton Terrace Rest Area for public use.
$158,400
2000
$281,600
1999
Safety
Safety Pulloffs Construction of four pull-offs north of (at locations that are no longer
Pere Marquette State Park for
part of byway)
agricultural vehicles to pull off the
highway during peak harvest and
tourist seasons.
Tour Bus parking lot in Grafton
Parking lot in Grafton for tour buses
and overflow parking during festivals
and peak tourist seasons.
$136,000
1999
Corridor Management Plan
Implementation
CMP Grant
Byway administration fees, assistance with kiosk development projects, design
guidelines and sign plans.
$25,000
2001
CMP GrantSome consultant work for assistance on
byway administration, travel to byway
workshops and conferences, postage
for mailings, and project coordinator fees.
$25,000 2002
CMP Grant
$25,000
2004
Work to develop new CMP; travel to byway workshops and conferences,
direct mailing and project coordinator fees.
Total Federal Grants
$2,911,608
+20% Local Match
$3,493,930
Total Infrastructure Improvements
appendix a – byway funded projects
51
B
Appendix B
Evolution of the Meeting of the Great Rivers Byway
The Evolution of the Meeting
of the Great Rivers Byway
1991
The State legislature appointed the Alton
Lake Heritage Parkway Commission to protect
the scenic and natural resources in the corridor
from Alton, Illinois to Pere Marquette State
Park, near Grafton.
1997
An ad hoc byway committee, comprised of
representatives from Madison, Jersey, Greene
and Calhoun counties and the Alton Lake
Heritage Parkway came together to prepare the
documents required for National Scenic Byway
designation and submitted the nomination
to the Federal Highway Administration.
Communities participating in the request
for designation included East Alton, Alton,
Godfrey, Elsah, Grafton, Rosedale, Nutwood,
Eldred and Kampsville.
1998
The Meeting of the Great Rivers Scenic
Route received designation as a National
Scenic Byway in June. The route as originally
designated began at the Locks and Dam #26,
continued through Alton on IL Route 143,
on Illinois Route 100 from Alton to Grafton,
to Illinois Route 16 through Rosedale and
Nutwood, on the Eldred Blacktop Road to
Eldred, and on Illinois Route108 over to the
Kampsville Ferry ending at Kampsville.
2000
An extension to the Meeting of the Great
Rivers Scenic Byway was officially designated.
The extension began at the Locks and Dam
#26 and ended south of Hartford at Illinois
Route 3 and New Poag Road, the site of
the newly constructed Lewis and Clark
Interpretive Center.
52
2002
The Federal Highway Administration
(FHWA) de-designated the Eldred Road from
north of the Jersey/Greene County line to the
southern limits of the village of Eldred and
Illinois Route 108 from the northwestern
limits of the village of Eldred to the Kampsville
Ferry landing at the Illinois River in Greene
County. Due to the disconnection to the
remaining portions of the byway, the FHWA
also made the decision to de-designate the
Villages of Kampsville and Eldred.
The Federal Highway Administration also
de-designated Illinois Route 100 from the
Greene County line south to the northern
boundary of the Pere Marquette State Park;
including the Legate property on Illinois
Route 100 adjacent to the south side of Pere
Marquette State Park. 
The FHWA approved a request from the
City of Wood River to de-designate a 2,500
foot segment at the intersection of Illinois
Route 143 and Illinois Route 3 in Wood River
and a 620 foot segment of Illinois Route 3
approximately one-half mile from its southern
city limits. These areas are considered strictly
commercial and industrial areas containing no
intrinsic qualities.
Roadways and sections of roadway that are
de-designated, or gapped, are not eligible to
receive scenic byway funding.
2007
Meeting of the Great Rivers named one of
the State of Illinois seven wonders.
appendix b – Evolution of the meeting of the great rivers byway
C
Appendix C
Byway Partners
Many state, federal, regional and local
agencies work in tandem with the mission
of the Meeting of the Great Rivers National
Scenic Byway. These include, but are not
limited to, the following list of partners and
related organizations.
Federal
• America’s Byways Resource Center
• Bureau of Land Management
• Environmental Protection Agency
• Federal Emergency Management Administration
• Federal Highway Administration
• National Marine Fisheries Service
• National Park Service
• Natural Resource Conservation Service
• U.S. Coast Guard
• U.S. Geologic Survey
• U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service
• U.S. Geological Survey
• U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
• U.S. Department of Agriculture
State
• Illinois Bureau of Tourism
• Illinois Department of Natural Resources
• Illinois Department of Transportation
• Illinois Emergency Management Agency
• Illinois Environmental Protection Agency
• Illinois Department of Agriculture
• Illinois Ecowatch
• Illinois Historic Preservation Agency
• Illinois Natural History Survey
• Landmarks Preservation Council of Illinois
• Opportunity Returns - SW Region
Regional/Local/Other
• Audubon Society
• Alton Area Landmarks Association
• Alton Little Theater
• Alton Museum of History & Art
• Alton Regional CVB
• Alton Symphony
• Center for American Archeology
• Confluence Greenway
• Ducks Unlimited
• East West Gateway Coordinating Council
• Elsah Historic Foundation
• Grafton Chamber of Commerce
• Greater Alton Concert Association
• Great River Road National Scenic Byway
• Great Rivers Land Trust
• Historic National Road Scenic Byway
• Illinois River Coordinating Council
• Lewis and Clark Community College
• Lewis and Clark Society of America
• Lincoln Highway National Scenic Byway
• Madison County Arts Council
• Madison County Transit
• Meeting of the Rivers Foundation
• MetroEast Recreation & Park District
• Mississippi Valley Duck Hunters Association
• Migratory Waterfowl Hunters, Inc
• Mississippi River Coordinating Council
• Mississippi River Parkway Commission
• Missouri Botanical Gardens
• Nature Conservancy
• NGRREC (National Great Rivers Research and Education Center)
• Ohio River National Scenic Byway
• Otterville Historical Society
• Pride, Inc.
• RC&D (Two regions)
• Route 66 National Scenic Byway
• Route of the Voyageurs: Illinois River Byway
• Sierra Club
• SW Illinois Planning Commission
• SW Illinois Tourism Development Office
• SW Illinois Growth Association
• SW Illinois Planning Commission
• U of I Extension
• West Central Development Council
appendix C – byway partners
53
Notes
CORRIDOR MANAGEMENT PLAN 2007
MEETING OF THE GREAT RIVERS NATIONAL SCENIC BYWAY
funded in part by the federal highway administration
hartford wood river alton godfrey elsah grafton
2007

hartford wood river alton godfrey elsah grafton 2007 corridor

Transcription

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