Crystal Lake Park District Plans Veteran Acres Playground/Shelter Construction On Schedule and Running Smoothly

The Veteran Acres Playground and Jaycee Shelter will remain closed until late May.  The adjacent restrooms are open.  The entire area is under renovation and work is proceeding very smoothly and on schedule.  The new playground is replacing an 18 year old structure and will feature a splash pad.  The play area is designed to be nature-themed and will be free of charge.  The new shelter replaces a 50+ year old structure and will have a stone fireplace and permanent grills.  It is available for group rentals and is open to the public when not previously reserved.  The entire site will meet all current safety and handicap accessibility guidelines.

Construction of a new restroom building at Veteran Acres Park near the Rotary Building is also progressing well and on schedule.  The new building replaces a 50+ year old structure and will open in May.  The electricity for the building will be provided by photovoltaic panels and renewable and sustainable construction materials are being used throughout the building.

 With the exception of the playground, Jaycee shelter and north restrooms, the entire 160 acre Veteran Acres Park, including the Nature Center and Butterfly House, is open to the public and free of charge.

 Also under construction is a new playground for Fetzner Park, located near the southwest corner of Golf Course and Ackman Roads.  The new playground was designed with input from neighborhood users and is scheduled to open in early May.

 Park visitors are urged to call the Administrative Office at (815) 459-0680 before scheduling outings in or around the playground.