FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Derek Harms
Date: December 19, 2024
Phone: (217) 544-1751 ext. 1000
SPRINGFIELD PARK DISTRICT ANNOUNCES $600,000 GRANT AWARD FOR LINCOLN PARK REDEVELOPMENT
[Springfield, IL] – The Springfield Park District is excited to announce a transformative redevelopment project for Lincoln Park, made possible through a $600,000 grant award from the State of Illinois. This fully funded initiative will revitalize Lincoln Park, creating an accessible and inclusive space that meets the recreational needs of children and families of all abilities and backgrounds, including those from underserved communities.
“This redevelopment project underscores the district’s commitment to providing equitable access to high-quality recreational opportunities for all residents of Springfield,” said Leslie Sgro, President of the Springfield Park Board of Trustees. “We are excited to transform Lincoln Park with innovative features that promote physical activity, social connection, and emotional well-being for all who visit.”
Key components of the redevelopment include:
- A New Inclusive Playground
- The centerpiece of the project, this state-of-the-art playground, will provide an inclusive environment designed to welcome children of all abilities and backgrounds. It incorporates sensory-focused features like textured surfaces, sound-making panels, and tactile materials to create a supportive and engaging space for children with sensory processing challenges.
- Large Wood Park Shelters
- New 30’x44’ wooden park shelters with concrete pads will be installed near the playground area and horseshoe pits, providing shaded gathering spaces for families and visitors.
- Energy-Efficient Lighting
- Outdated site lighting near the horseshoe pits will be replaced with energy-efficient LED fixtures mounted on new poles, ensuring a brighter, safer park environment.
- Unique Multi-Court Play Area
- A nature-inspired recreation space will feature hopscotch, four square, a half basketball court, and a tike trike track for children of all ages and abilities.
- Native Tree Plantings
- Trees planted around the play area will enhance the park’s natural beauty, provide shade, and support ecological sustainability
- Passive Recreation Area
- New features include bench swings, garden walks, a story walk, and footpaths surrounded by butterfly and pollinator plantings. Educational signage will highlight the area’s environmental features.
- Additional Amenities
- Benches, bike racks, picnic tables, and litter receptacles will be installed throughout the park to improve visitor convenience and enjoyment.
This project reflects the Springfield Park District’s mission to enrich lives through parks, people, and possibilities. The enhancement at Lincoln Park will create a vibrant community hub, providing accessible and memorable recreational opportunities while conserving natural resources for future generations. These improvements will foster connections, promote health, and enhance well-being for generations to come.
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For more information on this topic or any other Park District news-related item, please visit our website at springfieldparks.org
About the Springfield Park District
Since 1900, the Springfield Park District has enriched the community with exceptional parks, facilities, and recreational opportunities. Spanning over 2,500 acres, highlights include the Henson Robinson Zoo, Nelson Center Ice Rink, Erin’s Pavilion, Thomas Rees Memorial Carillon, Washington Park Botanical Garden, and more. Celebrating 125 Years of Parks, People, and Possibilities in 2025, the district invites everyone to join a year-long celebration with special events and activities.