Des Plaines Park District Public Forum for the Renovation of Eaton Field Park
The Des Plaines Park District is hosting a Public Forum on January 14, 2015 at 6:30pm in the David L. Markworth Boardroom at the Administrative and Leisure Center, 2222 Birch Street, to discuss the renovation of Eaton Field Park. The neighborhood park is located at 2975 Craig Drive. A conceptual design for a new playground will be available and the public is invited to review the proposed amenities and provide input on the improvements. Park District staff will be available to answer questions.
The renovation of Eaton Field Park was scheduled for 2016-2017 as part of the District's regular 15-year planning for updating playgrounds and amenities, but was moved up when HUD funds became available through the City of Des Plaines. "The generous contribution of more than $80,000 made this park renovation a priority," said Paul Cathey, Superintendent of Parks and Golf Operations. Don Miletic, Executive Director of the Park District added "Because some the work must be completed by July 1, we've moved very quickly to secure site plans, post an online survey, and hold this public forum to gather as much input from the residents of the Eaton Field neighborhood as we can."
Following the forum, the Park District will seek bids on the new equipment, the demolition and excavation of the site, and the construction of the new playground. The District has contacted Kids Around the World, a not-for-profit faith-based organization in Rockford, IL, to talk about removal of the existing play structure. This would be the District's fifth opportunity to work with Kids Around the World, whose mission is to refurbish and install playgrounds in economically depressed countries around the world.
Work on Eaton Field Park will begin as early as possible in the spring of 2015. "Our goal is always to provide a safe, modern, and unique play experience that will enhance the recreational opportunities in the neighborhood," said Cathey.
The survey is available on the Park District website, www.DPParks.org, and will remain open for input through January. For more information please contact Paul Cathey, at 847-391-5700 or Paulc@DPParks.org. ###