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Amphitheater, canoe launch among big ideas for Lake Zurich's Paulus Park

Lake Zurich is hoping to land state funding to help pay for an amphitheater and other proposed improvements at Paulus Park.

Village trustees will be asked Monday night to allow Hitchcock Design Group to pursue a $200,000 state grant to cover half a projected $400,000 tab for the possible park upgrades.

While Lake Zurich taxpayers would contribute the other $200,000 toward the work, officials said they hope to defray some of the cost through private fundraisers or donations.

"We live in a great community," Trustee Jim Beaudoin said. "A lot of people enjoy that park. It's a gem. It really is a gem. So, I think if we could get some real improvement there, I'm sure we could knock on some doors and get some private funding to help make sure that happens."

Hitchcock Design Group executive Steve Konters said the priority would be to secure funding for an amphitheater with an open-air band shell and stage. He said there would be terraced and handicapped-accessible seating near the stage.

"It (the amphitheater) really provides something for Paulus Park that's going to allow for bigger and more significant events," Konters said.

Speaking at a village board session last week, Konters outlined other possible Paulus Park upgrades that include a new fishing pier, better picnic area seating, a canoe and kayak launch, expanded swimming beach and a bags court. He said a redone main entrance off Rand Road and better directional signs are necessities.

"Aesthetically, it's not very pleasing," Konters said of the entrance. "There's some issues with the condition of the pavement."

Lake Zurich is paying $7,500 to Hitchcock Design Group to pursue the Illinois Department of Natural Resources grant and update Paulus Park's master plan. The company also is overseeing an online survey ahead of Monday's village board meeting to get resident feedback about Paulus Park use and the proposed improvements.

Konters said the grant application must be submitted to the state by July 1 for a chance to receive money for the 2016-17 budget.

An open-air amphitheater was part of a 2011 master plan for Paulus Park, but the state never approved a grant for the work, officials said.

Lake Zurich Trustee Jim Beaudoin says Paulus Park is "a gem." Ideas are being floated about improving the park off Rand Road north of Route 22. Daily Herald File Photo
An open-air amphitheater is one improvement proposed for Paulus Park in Lake Zurich. Other suggestions include a new fishing pier, a canoe/kayak launch and entryway upgrades. Daily Herald File Photo
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