Planning Continues For Fort Frankfort Replacement

FRANKFORT, IL — The Frankfort Park District continues to develop its plans for an inclusive playground, after over $1.5 million in state funding was secured to replace the aging Fort Frankfort, the park district said.

Earlier this year, State Sen. Michael Hastings helped secure over $1.5 million in funding through the Rebuild Illinois grant, to replace the aging playground. Executive Director Gina Hassett said the playground was first constructed in 1997, and has been on the "long list of deferred capital projects" for the park district.

In the past two years, Hastings has also secured $750,000 for a splash pad and Lincoln Meadow Park improvements, and $175,000 in OSLAD funding for Windy Hill playground.

"The funding Senator Hastings has allocated to the Frankfort Park District has helped with additional funds outside of our levy to fill the gaps in the district’s budget allowing us to update recreation facilities for our residents," Hassett said.

When it was first constructed, the funds for Fort Frankfort were raised by residents via the Operation Playground Foundation, and volunteers also helped physically build the structure. The Foundation has also continued to maintain the Fort, and has worked to raise more funds for various upgrades through the past two decades.

"This [state] funding will allow for an inclusive design that removes the physical barriers allowing all abilities to play together," Hassett said. "In the coming months, staff will be reaching out to the community to get feedback on designs concepts. This is an exciting opportunity for the residents of Frankfort. A special thank you to Senator Hastings for including Frankfort residents and the Park District in his planning."

Hassett said the park district is working with a landscape architect, who will develop conceptual designs for the replacement.

"Since the Fort Frankfort Playground was funded by residents and built by residents, it is important to preserve the past and grow the future of the community," she said. The park district plans to engage the public to gather feedback on designs.