Plans To Develop New Event Space Underway In Glen Ellyn

GLEN ELLYN, IL — The village of Glen Ellyn recently joined forces with the Glen Ellyn Park District to move forward with plans to create a park and event space at the site of a former U.S. Bank branch on Forest Avenue.

The village recently started the process of buying the 45,000 square foot property at 453 Forest Ave. for $1.65 million, according to a news update from the Glen Ellyn Park District. The park district ultimately plans to lease the property to provide additional green space downtown and host various events.

“This investment in the Village’s Central Business District by both the village and park district will enhance how and where events are carried out in the downtown area,” Village President Mark Senak said in a news release.

Senak added, “This will also drive additional activity and visitors to support our downtown businesses.”

Preliminary concepts to redevelop the space include installing a stage, connecting to Prairie Path and curating 9,000 square feet of green space.

Glen Ellyn Park District Executive Director Dave Harris called the move a "win-win" for Glen Ellyn residents.

"The availability of this land is a once-in-a-generation opportunity that allows the District to address its goal of reducing park 'deserts' — that is, areas that do not have adequate parks nearby like Downtown — while also adding to and expanding opportunities for public recreation that will benefit Glen Ellyn residents as a whole for years to come," Harris said in a statement.

This partnership between the village and park district will lay the groundwork for future collaborations on Panfish Park, Manor Woods and other areas.

Village Manager Mark Franz said in a news release, "Given the park district’s potential to bring economies of scale, its ability to seek grants and effectively manage and maintain properties, they are the most effective agency to manage park assets."