Popular SpaceNet to return to Engstrom park

The SpaceNet will soon return to its home in Engstrom Park thanks to years of fundraising by the dedicated volunteers of the Batavia Parks Foundation. Excavation and layout of the area began in April at the park, 326 Millview Drive. Concrete footings and a drainage layer will be added before the safety surface is installed, and weather permitting, the new apparatus should be installed early next week.

The SpaceNet was a popular attraction at Engstrom Park in the 1980s-'90s. It's a three-dimensional playground apparatus designed to encourage interactive play. The structure had to be removed in the late 1990s after it was vandalized beyond repair.

"That generation of net couldn't be repaired, but this new apparatus can be repaired if a section becomes damaged," said Jim Eby, director of planning and development for the Batavia Park District.

When the Batavia Parks Foundation formed in 2005, Batavia resident and business owner Craig Foltos approached the Foundation and suggested they try to raise funds to bring the SpaceNet back to Engstrom Park.

"We talked to quite a few community groups, and it quickly became apparent that there was high interest in bringing the SpaceNet back," said Dan Brace, Batavia Parks Foundation chairman. "Fundraising has gone well over the past few years, and the Foundation is pleased to be in a position to install the new SpaceNet."

The foundation is continuing to raise funds to help with the installation of the SpaceNet. If you're interested in making a charitable contribution, please do so by sending a check payable to the Batavia Parks Foundation to 327 W. Wilson St., Batavia, IL 60510.

The Batavia Parks Foundation is a 501(c)3 organization dedicated to improving and expanding Batavia's parks and green spaces. Founded by civic and business leaders in February 2003 and incorporated by the state in 2005, the Foundation bridges the gap between public resources and the need of a vibrant parks system. The mission of the Foundation is to advocate stewardship for open space, parks, facilities and recreation programs.

For information about the Batavia Parks Foundation, call the Batavia Park District at (630) 879-5235 or visit bataviaparks.org.