Park District Unveils New Playgrounds

Two new playgrounds in Seminole Park, 3000 S. Scott Street in Des Plaines, are open after extensive renovations by the park district. The project included the removal of existing playground equipment, by Kids Around the World; purchase and of new playground equipment manufactured by Burke, in Fond du Lac, WI; demolition work by Great Lakes Landscape, in Elk Grove; installation of the new equipment by Pro Installation Plus, Crystal Lake; and the design and installation of landscaping by park district staff. The project was funded with combination of $75,000 from HUD, and $15,000 from the park district. Bids were reviewed by staff in April, 2018, and approved by the Park Board at the May 2018 meeting.

One of the playgrounds at Seminole Park includes equipment specifically for kids ages 2–5, and the second is designed for ages 5–12. They both include a variety of colorful slides and climbing apparatus that encourage active play. There are three types of swings, including one that is ADA approved. “Our goal with park renovations is always to enhance the neighborhood,” said Paul Cathey, Superintendent of Parks & Golf Operations, “so families can have a beautiful, safe place to play that’s close to home.”

According to Corrie Guynn, Assistant Superintendent of Park & Planning, the playgrounds at Seminole Park were last renovated in 2003, as part of the regular 15-year maintenance schedule that this year includes a major overhaul and expansion of Mohawk Park, 504 Good Avenue, and a refurbishing of the Tot Lot in the playground at Rand Park, 2025 Miner Street, both of which are scheduled to be finished later this year.

More information about facilities, parks, programs and events is always available at DPParks.org.