Current Capital Improvement Projects

Park District of Oak Park Secures $1.6 million for Scoville Park Improvements

Grant Allows for Complete Park Renovation

The Park District of Oak Park has been awarded an Illinois Department of Natural
Resources Park and Recreational Facility Construction Grant in the amount of $1.6
million for the renovation of Scoville Park. Often referred to as the “Village Green,” this
grant will allow the Park District to renovate the entire four acres of park property. “This
is incredible,” stated Park Board President Marty Bracco. “Completing all phases of the
park master plan at one time will be a tremendous benefit to our residents and will
breathe new life into the District’s oldest park which will turn 100 years old in 2012.”

Improvements to Scoville Park were identified through a public site master planning
process which included four public meetings, six focus groups, and three online
questionnaires. The park master plan was accepted by the Park Board in August 2010.
“The quality of your plans to enhance the recreation opportunities for Illinois’ citizens is
recognized by your selection in this year’s very competitive selection process,” stated
Illinois Department of Natural Resources Director Marc Miller. Park improvements
identified in the park master plan include the creation of a Peace Plaza encircling the
World War I Peace Triumphant Monument, a permanent stage platform in the park’s
southern end, the planting of 104 new trees, new entrances in all four corners of the park
with an emphasis on a renewed main entrance at Oak Park Avenue and Lake Street, new
lighted tennis courts, and a new playground with accessible surfacing. Additionally,
historic signage will be located at park entries, restrooms will be updated and new LED
walkway lights will be installed.

The $1.6 million PARC Grant will fund 75% of the Scoville Park project with the
remaining $551,000 (25%) allocated as part of the District’s capital improvement budget.
PARC Grants are made possible through funding by the Illinois Jobs Now! Program.
Administered by the IL Department of Natural Resources, these funds are available to
eligible local governments for park and recreation construction projects. “Investing in
Illinois communities now is essential to growing our economy for years to come,”
Governor Pat Quinn said. “The PARC Program will help communities all over the state
proceed on local initiatives that will boost local economic development and help improve
continued the quality of life of all Illinois residents.” The program was created by Public Act 096-
0820, effective November 18, 2009 with funds appropriated from the Build Illinois Bond
Fund.

The Park District recognizes the significant efforts of 78th District State Representative
Camille Lilly who mentored the progress of this grant in Springfield. The Park District’s
gratitude is also extended to Senator Don Harmon for his continued support of Park
District projects and programs. Senator Harmon spoke at the November 2009 rededication
of the Peace Triumphant Monument which stands as the centerpiece of
Scoville Park. The construction of the new plaza, made possible through these grant
funds, will provide park visitors a place to sit and reflect and appreciate this bronze
memorial which pays tribute to those from Oak Park and River Forest who served in
World War I.

Construction is expected to begin in August 2012 with anticipated completion in spring
2013. For more information about the PARC Grant Program please contact Chris
McCloud, IL Dept. of Natural Resources at (217) 785-0075.