Several improvements to Homer Glen parks are in the works.
The village hopes to replace an aging playground in Goreham Park by this fall.
Playground equipment designed to get children outside and active has been ordered from Cunningham Recreation, which offered the village significant savings, said Rose Reynders, chair of the village’s Parks and Recreation Committee.
Renderings of the new park include several types of climbers, multiple slides, swings and a seesaw.
“We want to keep kids moving and keep their interest,” Reynders said. “It will be adventurous.”
The village is replacing an older park that has exceeded its lifespan as part of a village goal to address a different playground each year to improve, update or replace, Reynders said.
The village maintains 14 playgrounds throughout town, and most playgrounds need repairs after five or six years. Their lifespan is typically 10 to 15 years, Reynders said.
As the village looks at improvements to its playgrounds, it also aims to make them more inclusive with activities and equipment for residents with special needs, she said.
The project for Goreham Park, a 4-acre park at 14431 S. Pheasant Lane, is expected to cost about $235,000, Reynders said. The village took advantage of a grant offered by the manufacturer to get the equipment at half off, she said.
Meanwhile the village is looking at upgrades to other parks based on residents’ requests.
Reynders said the village is getting quotes for half-court basketball at Erin Hills Park, 13725 S. Dublin Drive, after residents asked for that amenity.
The village is also working to secure quotes for a pickleball court at Goodings Grove Park, 13900 Greystone Drive, which would be a resource for the eastern side of town.
Reynders said the Parks and Recreation Committee is trying to serve areas that don’t have as many park amenities and enhance existing parks.
“Moving forward, there’s a lot of good things that are going to be happening in the next year,” she said.
The village uses its 3 1/2 cent gas tax to help fund improvements to the parks.
A newly formed nonprofit foundation would also allow corporations, businesses and other donors to contribute to its parks fund as another potential revenue source.
The Homer Glen Community and Nature in Harmony Foundation was started to raise money and awareness to improve its trails, parks, playgrounds, historic farms and open space.
The organization plans Lace Up for Parks, Trails and Open Space, its first 5K run and walk for June 13 in Heritage Park, 14240 W. 151st St.
The event will include a DJ, food trucks, vendors and raffle prizes to Homer Glen businesses and restaurants, said foundation treasurer Craig Carlson.
A 100-yard-dash will be held for children under 10 years old, who will be given a T-shirt, medal and a goody bag with prizes.
The 5K Run will start at 8:30 a.m. with the 100-yard-dash starting at 9:30 a.m.
“This will be a fun, family event,” Carlson said.
Proceeds will support the foundation’s mission to improve Homer Glen and Homer Township parks and recreation.
Same day race signup will be available, or residents can sign up in advance at www.runsignup.com.
Michelle Mullins is a freelance reporter for the Daily Southtown.
