The Preston Ridge Trail is the new hike and bike trail in Far North Dallas that is fast becoming a terrific neighborhood treasure for walkers, bikers, runners, skaters. The Friends of the Preston Trail, Inc. is the non-profit volunteer organization that is galvanizing support for the Trail's expansion, beautification, maintenance, and utilization. We're delighted you're visiting our site, and encourage you to surf around... where you'll find a Trail map, news of upcoming events, ways to volunteer, how to contribute by becoming a member, and much more.

QUICK BACKGROUND

The Preston Ridge Trail is the result of progressive thinking by progressive County, City, and community leaders -- along with TXU/Oncor. Dallas County and the City of Dallas officials made the first move in 1999 as a part of the County's Park and Open Space Program. At a cost of $1.2 million, Phase I was funded by Dallas County, covers 4.8 miles and opened in April 2003. Its southern starting point is near the intersection of Coit and Spring Valley, and proceeds north along Meandering Way to McCallum. A short spur runs west from Meandering Way to Brentfield School.

Dallas City Council member Sandy Greyson was a big advocate for the Trail. She was instrumental in allocating $700,000 from the City's May 2003 bond package towards expanding the Trail north from McCallum to the Bush Tollway. This Phase II of 1.5 miles moves into Collin County, which is providing a grant for $500,000 to share these expansion costs.

During the summer 2003, City officials asked the North Dallas Neighborhood Alliance (NDNA) to encourage creation of the Friends of Preston Ridge Trail. In Fall 2003, the Friends held its first community meeting. The organization's focus is to serve as community advocates for the Trail and advise on its beautification. As the landscaping expands, the Friends will also encourage HOA participation and train volunteers for planting and watering activities, provide suitable equipment and coordinate special events along the Trail.

WE NEED YOU

The Friends is the best way to get involved in supporting and helping preserve and improve the Preston Ridge Trail. It's an ideal public-private partnership to improve the our community. We invite you to become a member and get involved as a user and/or volunteer. If you'd like to talk with a Friends Board member, please drop us an email or give us a call. The Preston Ridge Trail belongs to all of us, and by working together we're making our neighborhood not only more attractive, but also stronger, friendlier, and safer.