Friends of Winnslie Parkway

Preserving and Enhancing Urban Green Space along the railroad embankments in Chicago's Ravenswood Community

Our Mission

To provide funds and volunteer support for the maintenance and improvement of Winnslie Parkway and expansion areas.

What We Do

Parkway Stewardship

We maintain trees, gardens, and walkways along Winnslie Parkway, transforming a former dumping ground into a public space for nature, reflection, and community.

Expansion Projects

We’re expanding 1,000 feet southward—more than three football fields—adding new trails, trees, plantings, and green infrastructure. This work is made possible through partnerships with NeighborSpace, the Ravenswood Neighbors Association, the Greater Ravenswood Chamber of Commerce, the 47th Ward, Union Pacific Railroad, the Chicago Department of Planning and Development, the Chicago Department of Transportation, as well as support from local foundations, private donors, and volunteers.

Community Engagement

Through volunteer workdays, guided walks, educational events, and seasonal plantings, we foster public participation in preserving this urban sanctuary.


Why It Matters

Urban greenspaces like Winnslie Parkway bring meaningful benefits: Cleaner air, improved stormwater management, habitat for birds, pollinators, and native species, beauty, tranquility, and a sense of community. A safer, cleaner alternative to former neglected embankments.


Get Involved

Donate

Your support helps fund Schanmier Landscaping, a highly reliable and dedicated company that has provided service to the Ravenswood community for three generations.

Volunteer

Join a workday or lend your expertise to our projects: Chip the Parkway, Clip the Vines, Walk the Trail, Eco Fest, Plant the Bulbs, Litter removal and more.

Stay Connected

Sign up for updates, event news, and ways to help.


Our Impact (1999-2025)

The first installation of what was then called the Winnemac–Ainslie Parkway was completed in 1999. In 2013, that installation was removed and replaced in 2014 with the new parkway now known as Winnslie Parkway, which is the version you see today.

Over 25years of stewardship

More than $40,000 raised

Hundreds of trees and plants installed

New Expansion Master Plan launched in 2025

Meet the Team

Board of Directors

Mark Weber: Research biologist and urban greening advocate focused on transforming neglected spaces into sustainable community assets.

Tim Gillengerten: Owner of Transit Tees and  advocate for local community engagement.

Roy Wesley: Retired scientist, currently an author of non-fiction books and a lecturer.


L to R: Mark Weber, President; Tim Gillengerten, Vice President; Roy Wesley, Secretary/Treasurer


Key Contributors


Stephen Christy

Landscape Architect, Co-Creator of Winnslie Parkway

Stephen played a central role in the design and development of Winnslie Parkway alongside David Bier and Anna Arbetter of Futurity, Inc. As the leader of the Winnslie Parkway Landscaping Committee, he brings vision, horticultural expertise, and a deep commitment to urban greening.


Keith Clauson

Head Gardener, Winnslie Parkway

Keith leads the daily care and planting along Winnslie Parkway. His dedication and expertise help keep the garden vibrant, welcoming, and well-maintained throughout the year.


Fred Schanmier

Owner of Schanmier Landscape Co., serving the Ravenswood community for over fifty years. Fred and his team have been essential to the care and maintenance of Winnslie Parkway, providing reliable, professional service and playing a key role in keeping the parkway vibrant and welcoming year-round.