Naperville celebrates Central Park renovations

It’s a good thing there weren’t many critics in Naperville’s Central Park Thursday night as resident reviews of the renovated park were about as glowing as reviews for the Naperville Municipal Band.

City, park and band officials were all on hand before the band’s final performance of the season to celebrate the park’s improvements.

The work completed this summer on the Central Park Renovation Project included the replacement of the park’s benches, improved site grading to allow better views of the stage, improved lighting and relocation of the cannon to minimize conflicts with the portable restrooms. The audio platform was also moved to the top of the hill to better visibility of the Community Concert Center.

“We did this all to improve the experience of the audience,” said band Treasurer Bret Richter. “We hope everyone enjoys the benches and the new grading here at Central Park.”

The crowd erupted in cheers when Richter referenced the permanent washrooms, which are expected to be purchased at a later date.

Naperville residents Mark and Mary Jo Jennings said the improvements have made for a more relaxed atmosphere.

“I know we don’t have to come so early now to sit in front,” Mary Jo said. “Now you can see over the person in front of you, no matter where on the hill you put your chair. So there’s less scrambling.”

Freda and Norm Reynolds also appreciated the moving of the audio board.

“I’m sure they’re very nice men, but I’m happy to no longer be looking at their backsides during a concert,” Freda said. “Aside from that they’ve made the park very nice and welcoming.”Parks President Mike Reilly said #147;welcoming#148; was exactly the word he hoped would describe the park.

#147;While the Riverwalk may be the most prominent park we have in our city, Central park is really a central gathering spot for people,#148; Reilly said.

The work, which began earlier this spring, cost about $340,000. The city received a $300,000 grant from the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity to improve Central Park. The remaining amount was funded by the city#146;s Special Events and Cultural Amenities Fund.