Round Lake Area Park District invites community to help shape the future of Fawcett Park

The Round Lake Area Park District has officially begun the planning process for Fawcett Park and is inviting residents to help shape the future of the district’s newest passive park.

The approximately six-acre property at West Park and Park roads in Round Lake was recently acquired through a land transfer from the village of Round Lake, creating an opportunity to preserve the site’s natural character while developing a park that reflects the needs and interests of the community.

Unlike active parks that focus on organized sports and playgrounds, passive parks are designed to provide opportunities for recreation in a natural setting. Potential features may include walking trails, native landscaping, seating areas, picnic spaces, nature observation areas, educational signage and other low-impact amenities that encourage visitors to enjoy the environment.

“We’re excited to begin planning the future of Fawcett Park, and we want our residents to be part of the process,” Executive Director Katie Gamroth said. “This project is a wonderful opportunity to create a welcoming space where our community can come together, enjoy the outdoors and connect with nature. We encourage everyone to take a few minutes to complete the survey and share their ideas; your voice will play an important role in bringing this park to life.”

The park district has retained Upland Design Ltd. to assist with the planning process. Community feedback, along with environmental considerations and site analysis, will be used to develop a conceptual master plan that reflects the vision of the community while preserving the unique natural features of the property.

The survey gives residents the opportunity to use their voice to provide input on a variety of possible park improvements. Participants can choose what amenities they would like to see, including fishing outcrops, outdoor classrooms, boardwalks/overlook decks and more.

Residents can complete the survey at surveymonkey.com/r/SXG22SY.