In 1960, Western Springs began beautifying the new Tollway. But, their efforts were quickly undermined by thieves.

Western Springs police viewing the crime scene

In late 1959, the Western Springs Beautification Commission began exploring the possibility of planting trees and shrubs along the shoulder of the brand-new Tri-State Tollway, just west of the village. This would provide a sound barrier, reduce the glare of headlights from passing cars, and beautify the village. This would also be the first such program undertaken by any town or village along the entire Tollway system.

The Tollway Authority not only liked the idea, it offered to provide the labor and equipment necessary to plant the greenery. Soon the Village Board endorsed the plan. But, the cost of the trees and shrubs would be upwards of $5,000, or more than $40,000 in 2014 dollars. While village funds were not available, donations began to come in from various groups, including the Kiwanis, Garden Club, Rotary, Newcomers, and Forest Hills Association.

The Beautification Commission sought bids from nine different nurseries in order to get the lowest possible prices and the best variety. And, by the end of April 1960, six 300-foot-long beds had been planted.  The 600 plantings included Douglas firs and willows in wet areas, as well as a variety of deciduous trees and shrubs such as wild plum, wild crab forsythia, Nanking cherry, bush maples, and dogwood.

Unfortunately, just three months after the initial planting, village officials discovered that many of the trees and shrubs south of the Maple Street pedestrian overpass had been stolen, presumably in the dark of night.

While it is not known whether the thieves were ever apprehended, the rest of the plantings were, fortunately, undisturbed. And, 50+ years later, many of the plantings endure, providing greenery along this stretch of the Tollway.