Geneva sees options for Sandholm Park
A maze garden. A small playground. Maybe a gazebo.
These features could be a part of the redeveloped Sandholm Woods Park's eastern side, according to plans presented to the Geneva park board Monday night. Sandholm Park is on the east side of Geneva, on Sandholm Street south of State Street.
Landscape architect Michelle Kelly of Upland Design, a Plainfield firm, presented two plans for the approximately 2-acre site. "On this side, we are really trying to complement what is going on on the other side," she said. The park straddles Sandholm Street; the western half is being renovated and includes natural areas with interpretation posts. Turkey vultures have been known to visit Sandholm Woods.
Option A was a little bit more formal and linear, including a rectangular maze garden that could be done with privet hedges, similar to one at the Morton Arboretum in Lisle.
There would also be "The Grove," meant as sort of an outdoor room, that could have bluebells and daffodils in the spring and otherwise have a lawn. It would also feature a small playground.
Option B was a bit more "naturalistic," she said, featuring a curved path that would wind around areas that could have small gardens, sculpture areas, contemplative nooks and a grotto. A small playground could be added, and a bean-shaped maze would be appropriate, she said.
"I almost like that better," said Charles Emma, board president.
"Though I like that treehouse idea," said Commissioner Peggy Condon, of a play piece on Option A.
For either plan, the park board needs to decide whether to keep an existing house. Presently, it is only being used for storage and an office for parks and facilities superintendent Larry Gabriel. If it were eliminated, his office could be moved to current facilities at Wheeler Park or to the new Peck Farm Park community center, which is being built and expected to open in fall 2008.
Park commissioners favored removing the house.
No vote was taken. The architect will review their suggestions.