Old Plank Park Improvements and Playground Replacement Update 10.21.2024

PRESS RELEASE:

OLD PLANK PARK PLAYGROUND REPLACEMENT PROJET FINAL RENDERINGS AND PRE-CONSTRUCTION PARK CLOSURE

October 21, 2024:

The Wildwood Park District is happy to present final design renderings for the upcoming Old Plank Park playground equipment replacement project and walking path addition. The project will include four new sitting benches, a paved accessible walking path, and new multi-age playground equipment and swings replacing the previous equipment onsite.

We would also like to thank the Gagewood Lions Club (who is a generous monetary contributor to this project and has funded and executed many Wildwood and Gages Lake area playground builds). The Lions Club will be instrumental in helping remove the existing equipment and sharing it with the local neighborhoods who may be in need of play equipment.

Beginning Monday, October 21st, 2024, Old Plank Park will be closed off for current use due to the scheduled removal of the existing equipment.  We anticipate the new equipment and construction will begin in December 2024 with a grand opening scheduled for early Spring 2025 (weather dependent).

In early 2024, the Wildwood Park District conducted a general Community Needs Assessment Survey as well as a pointed Willow Point Park and Old Plank Park Playground Equipment Needs Assessment Survey to receive feedback on necessary renovations and upgrades. Survey results determined that residents favored Old Plank Park to receive the renovations due to decades of wear and tear, lack of playground equipment, and desire for accessibility and inclusivity. Survey results also showed that residents most sought playground equipment that can accommodate all ages and all abilities with age-specific areas, climbing components, interactive and sensory equipment, slides, swings, and additional seating for adults. A public Open House was held on September 12th to view the design and color scheme options as well as a detailed online survey that helped the Park District and Lions Club representatives move forward with the chosen design scheme.

For more information or questions, please reach out to Wildwood Park District Manager, Brandon Magnini, via phone at 847.223.7275 or via email at bmagnini@wildwoodparkdistrict.com.