Aurora's first park to get makeover

Driving by McCarty Park on the outskirts of downtown Aurora, you might not think it's anything special.

"It's basically just grass that gets cut and some benches under some nice trees," said Jim Pilmer, the city's parks and recreation development director.

But Aurora's first public park, which is a gateway to downtown, should stand out, leaders say.

And they believe a $650,000 makeover will help it get the attention it deserves.

By next Memorial Day, visitors should notice a complete overhaul of the site at West Park Place and New York Street. The main feature will be an interactive water fountain for kids to play in.

The site also will get new sidewalks, sitting areas, entryways and wrought-iron ornamental fencing. A custom-made pergola, a garden feature that forms a shaded walkway, will be built on the west side.

The city council could approve the project in October. Leaders hope to hold a formal dedication in May.

The park is in the city's historic district, in a mostly Hispanic area. Its location made for a unique planning process, Pilmer said, one that considered various community elements such as crime prevention and the cultural use of open space.

"There's a real understanding that this isn't just a re-landscaping type of project," he said.

Leaders cooperated with city police to include environmental elements that may help cut crime. For example, Pilmer said, new garbage cans can include dome lids with latches where people can't take out trash once it's been thrown in.

The multi-use park also has been designed to be a gathering place and to host community events, like the Midwest Literacy Festival and a neighborhood Farmer's Market. Churches and theater groups also can use the site for events.

"You don't set up a park in its design or use that encourages loitering," Pilmer said. "You have to encourage use. It's recognizing what the difference is and working with police."