Grant could jump-start plans for new Carol Stream park

Empty green space could become a new Carol Stream park between two sprawling condominium complexes on the west side of Gary Avenue.

The park district plans to seek a grant that would award up to $50,000 for the installation of a turf surface, one of the major amenities envisioned for the site.

Officials must apply by the end of the week for the National Recreation and Park Association program funded by a $1 million donation from The Walt Disney Co. The program supports projects that open up access to outdoor play areas for children.

The park district has heard calls from families to develop the land between the Carolshire and Klein Creek complexes.

"We want to fulfill that need," Executive Director Jim Reuter said Monday.

The park would serve a high-density area south of the Fountain View Recreation Center. The Carolshire complex alone is spread out across nearly 20 three-story buildings.

The park district has budgeted $200,000 for the project, including the grant.

If the national association provides the money, the district could get started on the work later this year.

Earlier this month, officials met with staffers from the village's engineering services and community development departments about the plans.

The district hasn't finalized the scope but could build a playground, shelter and grilling area.

It also would make accommodations to link the park with a bike path slated for construction along Gary Avenue in 2018.

The asphalt path will run on the west side of Gary, from St. Charles Road north to Army Trail Road.

The village was awarded a nearly $1.9 million federal grant for the bike path in 2011 and transferred the rights for the funding to the county, the lead agency for that project.