West Chicago Park District recognized for implementing evidence-based design
PlayCore’s Center for Outreach, Research and Education (CORE) awarded its National Demonstration Site Designation to the West Chicago Park District for thoughtfully aligning with evidence-based design best practices to promote youth physical activity, nature play, and inclusive play for all abilities.
“We are excited for the community to experience our new playgrounds,” said Gina Radun, executive director. “By collaborating with PlayCore on these projects, guests of all ability levels can enjoy physical activity, while socializing and connecting with family, friends, and neighbors. Play creates the opportunity for development and imagination. Through play, we hope residents can have fun and create memories along the way.”
Cornerstone Lakes Park, 2199 Smith Road, and its grand opening event will take place on Wednesday, March 20, from 2 to 3 p.m.
Prince Crossing Park is located at 719 Hampton Course, and its grand opening event will be on Thursday, March 21, from 2 to 3 p.m.
“The district has recently devoted time and effort into finding grant funding to help us renovate spaces and facilities in need at an affordable cost,” said Michael Gasparini, superintendent of parks. “Thanks to the collaboration of PlayCore, GameTime, Cunningham Recreation, and staff of the West Chicago Park District, that dream has become reality for these two sites. We are grateful to have such a wonderful community to work for, and we hope everyone enjoys these playgrounds for years to come.”
Cornerstone Lakes Park and Prince Crossing Park will be listed on the PlayCore National Demonstration Site Map at www.playcore.com/nds/map.
As a National Demonstration Site, CORE’s Data Service Lab will be working with the West Chicago Park District to provide data translation reports on this site’s contribution to overall Community Vitality. Visitors are encouraged to participate in the research by scanning the QR Code on the National Demonstration Site signs located at the entrances of each playground. To learn more about turning research into practice, visit playcore.com/nds.
About West Chicago Park District
The West Chicago Park District was established in 1972 and since has been committed to creating an enhanced quality of life through effective programs, progressive facilities, and preservation of parks and natural resources. The District maintains over 400 acres including Reed-Keppler Park, the ARC Center, TreeTop Escape, Turtle Splash Water Park, Toucan’s Hideaway, ZONE250, playgrounds, and much more. Learn more at we-goparks.org.
About PlayCore
PlayCore is a purpose-driven Company committed to building healthy communities around the world by advancing play and recreation. The company infuses scholarly learning, through its Center for Outreach, Research, and Education (CORE), into its comprehensive family of brands. PlayCore combines best-in-class educational programming with the most comprehensive portfolio of play and recreation products and services to create tailored solutions that match the unique needs of each community served. Learn more at playcore.com and playcore.com/CORE.