The Park District of Franklin Park is excited to announce that it was awarded a $248,200 grant through the Open Space Land Acquisition and Development (OSLAD) program. This grant will be used for the redevelopment of Timber Park located at 3103 Hawthorne Street. The property was first acquired by the Park District in 1968.
OSLAD grants provide up to 50% of a project’s funds. This year, $29.7 million in grants were provided for 85 projects in Illinois.
The planning process this summer went through a number of steps. Staff, camps, residents and children all provided input at Timber Park. Staff always participates in the park planning process by brainstorming together outdoors. Several staff members participated for the first time.
In the spirit of child-led play, we ask for input from our Summer Camps. Campers let their imaginations run when picturing their ideal park. The input is greatly valued as the parks are for them and children to come.
A barbecue picnic was held for residents on July 24 where initial concept designs for Timber and Hawthorne Parks were on display. There were many young families as well as teens, parents and grandparents. We received a number of surveys with over 75 ideas.
Features at Timber Park will include a playground, child-activated splash pathway, chimney swift habitat, shelter area and Gaga Ball pit. The increasing popularity of Gaga Ball and its child-led characteristic were major factors to include it.
We appreciate all the feedback and look forward to the next steps.
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