Itasca Park District
T
he Itasca Park District is going for the hat-trick! IPD has been named a Gold Medal Finalist for 2015 through the National Recreation and Parks Association! There are four finalists from across the nation competing for this prestigious award. Itasca with a population of approximately 9,000 is opposing park districts with populations of up to 30,000. The park district has won this award previously in 2003 and 2009. The winner will be announced in September 2015 at the National Conference. Technology has undergone a great update in the last year with the unveiling of a new website that provides Online Registration, text and email alerts on many programs, leagues and facilities. Recreation and Accounting Software packages were also replaced. Peacock Park reopened in June 2015 after an exciting renovation, boasting a new baseball diamond, turf volleyball court, walking paths, baggo courts, two basketball halfcourts, a bocce court, picnic pavilion and in-line skate board nodes. The District is awaiting a promised Open Space Land Acquisition and Development (OSLAD) grant for 50 percent of the cost from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.
In January 2015, the park district was awarded a $363,500 grant from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources for renovation of the Ray Franzen Bird Sanctuary. This project would include Itasca’s first dog park, a nature-based play area, outdoor fitness station, outdoor classroom, boardwalk, shelter, grill and habitat restoration. This grant is currently suspended. The park district is hopeful that the grant will come through and allow this fantastic renovation to its facilities. The Itasca Historical Depot Museum’s recent restoration of the over 140 year-old structure has been a huge success. The addition and renovation of an original 1939 Milwaukee Road orange caboose on site has thrilled train enthusiasts young and old! Many exciting events are planned for this year in conjunction with the Village of Itasca’s 125th Anniversary. Make sure to check out Oktoberfest on Sept. 10 and 11 where the park district will be offering free crafts, tattoos, balloons and more for kids in the Kids Korner! Check www.itasca.com/ oktoberfest for hours.
Phase 1 of the Springbrook Nature Center project has been completed, upgrading infrastructure inside and out including new air conditioning units, siding, roofing, ADA Accessibility and insulation. Phase 2 is underway, providing new exhibits and interpretive indoor and way-finding outdoor signage. The project cost is $620,000.
Technology has undergone a great update in the last year with the unveiling of a new website that provides Online Registration, text and email alerts on many programs, leagues and facilities.
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LINDA DICKSON
For advertising opportunities, contact Linda at ldickson@tspubs.com or (630) 765-2125 www.townsquarepublications.com
10 | Itasca Community Guide & Business Directory
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