New 'pocket park' coming to Des Plaines block

A new "pocket park" is coming to a Des Plaines residential block that park district officials say is in need of recreational opportunities.

The park board this week approved a $52,000 purchase of a 7,000-square-foot vacant lot at 968 Second Ave., where preliminary plans call for a playground, swings and a concrete walk. The park district is buying the property from the city, which acquired the land in condemnation.

Park director Don Miletic said the district could expand the park in the future if neighbors to the north and south decide to sell. At least one neighbor "is very interested in being part of the entire process," Miletic said.