Recreations Reflecting on 2024: A Year of Parks, People, and Progress By: Daniel LoCasico, Director of Parks & Recreation As we reflect on 2024, it was a year of growth, connection, and community spirit for the Park District of Franklin Park. From celebrating milestones to launching new initiatives, we made significant strides in enhancing the parks, programs, and experiences that matter most to our residents. Last spring, we upgraded the Ice Arena and North Park with new windows and doors, improving both aesthetics and energy efficiency. At the Ice Arena, an old manual door with drafting issues was replaced with a new, automatic, properly sealed door. A second Studio Arena entrance was added to improve participant flow. The Banquet Hall patio doors were made taller, and side panel windows were widened, brightening the room and reducing the need for artificial lighting during daytime events. The new doors also offer party and event guests a beautiful view of the patio and gazebo. Additionally, the Banquet Hall received new carpeting, replacing the one installed in 2010. Our 2024 programs and events achieved great success, with increased registration and participation. The 50th Annual Ice Show welcomed numerous alumni and families with ties to the Ice Arena, filling the building with energy and nostalgia. Our Panther teams excelled, winning seven NWHL/NIHL championships, placing second three times, capturing 10 travel tournament championships, and finishing as runners-up six times. The Youth Volleyball and Basketball Cooperative Leyden League teams grew in size and competed at a high level against teams from Norridge, Rosemont, Schiller Park, and Leyden Township. Attendance at the Easter Egg Hunt, Park Parties, Concerts, and Street Dance was the highest in years. The Annual Eddie Biondo Fall Fest Parade and Pumpkin Fest drew nearly 6,000 attendees. Earth Day and Trick or Treat in the Park continue to grow annually, thanks to the support of local businesses, residents, and favorable weather. We are grateful for your kind words and support on social media. As we move into 2025, we look forward to completing more capital improvement projects to ensure our facilities and parks remain modern, clean, and safe. Your enthusiasm, support, and participation are what truly make our Park District thrive. Together, we’ll continue creating vibrant spaces that bring our community closer and enrich the lives of all who visit.
847.455.2852 • fpparks.org
WINTER 2025
Save the
Date! Daddy Daughter Dance Saturday, Feb 1 from 6-8 p.m. Location: Centre at North Park, 10040 Addison Ave. Register online at fpparks.org.
Color Run, Walk, & Roll Sunday, May 4 Begins at 9 a.m. Location: Starts & finishes at North Park Register online at fpparks.org.