General Open Space FAQ

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 There are multiple definitions of open space – farmland, vacant property, undeveloped tracts, even an unoccupied parking spot can be called an open space, but what is being discussed here is land that was purchased by taxpayers as part of an Open Space Program. In 1998 Voters adopted an Open Space Plan that was discussed at a Public Hearing and approved starting an Open Space Program. Voters also approved issuing $8 Million in bonds to purchase land for the Open Space Program. The funds were used to purchase four Open Space properties - The Welter Farm, The Trantina Farm, the Paul Farm and the Purdy Farm. 

You can use this link to view the basic map

https://img1.wsimg.com/blobby/go/ffcd0af9-e611-4cbc-93ac-8f76942204f7/downloads/Homer%20Open%20Space%20Map.pdf?ver=1665917434794

You can see the map on this flyer that shows which properties are up for sale.

https://img1.wsimg.com/blobby/go/ffcd0af9-e611-4cbc-93ac-8f76942204f7/downloads/Flyer%20Map%20Open%20Space%20for%20Sale.pdf?ver=1665917770664

To Print a Copy of the Map showing the locations of the Open Space Parcels.

Go to our Documents Page, scroll down the Graphics section and you can download and print the map. https://homeropenspace.com/print-flyers-%26-docs

Welter Farm

Welter Farm 14858 S. Founders Crossing, Homer Glen (for navigation, not a mailing address) This will take you to the entrance of the Healing Garden. If you continue walking West through a slightly worn path it will lead you to the "Hero's Trail Bike Path". The land you view to the West of the bike path is the Welter Farm Open Space property. It is also adjacent to the south side of Golden Oak subdivision. This is the property that Homer Township is?/was? wanting to build a housing subdivision on for people 55 and older in violation of the State Statute for Open Space Property. 

Trantina Farm

15800 W. 151st Street, Homer Glen (for navigation, not a mailing address) 

Parking available on both the north and south sides of 151st St. This property is not in Homer Glen or Lockport. It is an unincorporated property. The Trantina Farm is split by 151st street Trantina Farm Site, Austin- Welter Barn, Silo, Grainery, playground, picnic shelter and nature trail is on the North side of 151st street. This is the side that the Homer Township Board is planning to develop adding parking for 1500+ vehicles.

Trantina Dog Park is on the South side of 151st street 

Purdy Farm

The northeast corner of Bruce Rd. and Gougar Rd. in Lockport No Parking available at this site. The Purdy Farm is the large parcel of land you see looking toward I-355 to the East. Homer Township has not announced plans for this parcel however the Township Supervisor at one time was working out a plan with a private developer for the Purdy Farm but has not disclosed any details to the public.

Paul Farm

16417 W. 151st, Lockport (for navigation, not a mailing address) No Parking available at this site No Parking at the fire station. The Paul Farm wraps around the Homer Township Fire Station but does not go all the way to the tollway. The sign for the Paul property is west of the fire station on the South side of the street.

Erin Hills Marsh (Not shown on the map.)

We are working on how to best direct you to see this site in Homer Glen. No Parking available at this site. This land is south of the Erin Hills subdivision and North of the Old Oak Golf Course with Long Run Creek running through it. 

Yes. The Welter, Purdy and Paul Farms are currently farmed. Farming brings in income. The  income is required to be put into the Open Space fund and not comingled with Township Funds.