 EnviroCitizen.org recently became acquainted with yet another eco-conscious community. Prairie Crossing is known as the Conservation Community, and for good reason! Located in Grayslake, Illinois, Prairie Crossing was created to conserve open land, increase the availability of local transit and encourage its residents to take part in an eco-friendly lifestyle. Prairie Crossing operates an on-site organic farm, which yields produce sold at their local farmers market. They also host an on-site, public charter school where learning is centered on the natural environment.
Prairie Crossing is comprised of 359 single-family homes and 36 condominiums. It is located near two metro commuter lines, enabling residents to be in Chicago in less than an hour without using a personal vehicle. A whopping 60% of the land that makes up Prairie Crossing is protected, open land. The land is adjacent to the Liberty Prairie Reserve. Prairie Crossing is guided by ten principles: environmental protection and enhancement, a healthy lifestyle, a sense of place, a sense of community, economic and racial diversity, convenient and efficient transportation, energy conservation, lifelong learning and education, energy efficiency and economic viability.
Prairie Crossing began in 1987 when a group of neighbors came together to preserve open space. They formed an organization with the main goal of responsibly developing the 677 acres that now comprises Prairie Crossing. Since then, Prairie Crossing has evolved into a community of like-minded citizens. Residents of Prairie Crossing frequently liken their living experience as a permanent vacation. Prairie Crossing is a unique idea, but it is not a new one. Prior to World War II, Americans lived in active communities where their basic and social needs were met within their neighborhoods. This traditional concept is combined with responsible environmental stewardship at Prairie Crossing, creating the kind of place that leads by example in these modern times.
Prairie Crossing is a great example of how Americans can live a comfortable lifestyle that is also sustainable. The residents of Prairie Crossing agree, and they tend to lead eco-friendly lifestyles even outside of their homes. EnviroCitizen.org believes we can learn a good lesson from them. Leading an eco-friendly lifestyle is not all about sacrifices. It is more than possible, as we've learned from the residents of Prairie Crossing, to lead a life of eco-friendly peace, tranquility and community. Let's unleash the power of human potential and come together to define new, innovative ways to create and engage in green communities—better for you and better for the environment!
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