Current
Capital Improvement Projects
Cheney Mansion
The restoration of the wrought iron fence which surrounds Cheney Mansion
on the north, west, and south sides of the property was restored from January
through April 2007. The current fencing had deteriorated over the years and
was in need of repairs and a fresh coat of paint. This project consisted of
removal of sections of fencing to an off-site location where it was sandblasted
to abate the existing lead-based paint, repaired, primed, repainted and then
reinstalled at Cheney Mansion. The wooden fence located on the east side of
the Cheney Mansion property was also replaced. The total cost for the Cheney
Mansion Fence Restoration Project was $69,895. Funding for this project was
made available due to the passing of the Renew Our Parks Referendum in April
2005.
Additional Renovations
Major repairs and extensive remodeling took place at Cheney
Mansion during the spring and summer of 2007. Exterior projects
included restoration of the front walkway and the Mansions'
red tile roof was replaced along with the copper gutter system.
Other improvements included chimney repair, exterior painting
and tuckpointing. Inside, Cheney's catering kitchen was completely
renovated, and the hardwood floors throughout were refinished,
along with the mahogany trim inside the living room. The
Mansion's five fireplaces were re-tiled and refinished as
well.
With these welcomed improvements, the Park District strives
to maintain Cheney Mansion as a unique venue for recreational
programs, special activities and community events and as
a distinctive locale for private celebrations and meetings.
Designer Showcase House 2007
Cheney Mansion was chosen as the Oak Park/River Forest
Infant Welfare Society’s 2007 Designer Showcase House.
This unique and inspiring month-long event attracted the
talents of some of the region's finest, most prestigious
professional interior designers. Rooms throughout the 12,000
square foot residence became a palette on which the creative
genius of these gifted designers was displayed. The funds
raised will be used by the Infant Welfare Society to pursue
their mission of providing medical and dental care to children
whose families cannot afford the cost of private medical
care.
If you would like more information regarding core center
improvements, please contact Linda Peterson at lindap@oakparkparks.com.
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