New North Lake Park changes face of Lake Opeka

Lake Park, designed around Lake Opeka, has long been one of Des Plaines’ premier recreational areas.

Now, on Saturday, June 2, the Des Plaines Park District staff and Board of Commissioners will celebrate the grand opening of North Lake Park on Howard Avenue at Lee Street.

The addition of the north park area was made possible by the purchase of that land from Good Shepherd Church in 2007. The community is invited to the celebration from 10-11:30 a.m. with games, demonstrations, and light refreshments.

“When they sold the property to the park district, the congregation made a significant contribution to the green space available to the residents of Des Plaines,” said John Hecker, park district executive director.

Designing and building the park amenities was started in 2010. They include a large fishing pier, a picnic shelter, a gazebo, interpretive signage, an extended walking path with benches, a sensory garden, and native trees, including red maples, Ohio buckeyes, sugar maples, swamp white oaks, black tupelos, bald cypress, and American hornbeams.

The new north park area also has a water spray for children, two bags courts and a bocce ball court.

“The development of the north side of Lake Park still allows for plenty of open space for families to enjoy games, picnicking, and relaxing in the park,” said Hecker. “Lake Park has always been a favorite in the community, and now it has even more to enjoy.”

For details, visit www.DPParks.org or call (847) 391-5700.