Dear Cary Park District Residents,

In my first opportunity to address you as the Park District Board President, I
believe it is important to provide a progress report on a number of projects that are happening throughout the Park District. A lot of effort has been expended to bring these projects to fruition, through community planning groups and public hearings, staff planning and contracted providers. We continue to improve your parks in an economically sensitive manner to assist in your park and recreation needs.

Community Center Renovation
Over the past summer, work began on the Community Center renovation. All three racquetball courts have been removed, and space is being made available for additional fitness opportunities, early childhood, youth, family and senior programs. The construction should be completed this fall, and we look for a late fall or early winter grand re-opening. Be sure to contact the Park District about the great rates for fitness memberships, and stay healthy all year-round.

 

Trails
We have been waiting a long time for several trail developments to get started. The Park District worked cooperatively with the Village of Cary to provide portions of the Cary-Algonquin Road Trail segment, and the connection to the Hoffman Park Trail system. And, we are happy to report that the Illinois Department of Transportation Grant for the North Community Trail system, connecting South Rawson Bridge Road through Decker Park to Cary-Grove Park, Cary Junior High, Cary-Grove High School and Lions Park is slated for 2010 bidding and summer construction. There are only a few small segments left to complete before these two trail systems will be completely linked and available for use.

 

Hoffman Park Phase 1 Development
Continuing the Hoffman Park Trail system, the Park District was able to secure an Illinois Department of Natural Resources development grant to providing for a trail head and parking lot entrance, and adding 4,000 linear feet of trail. The grant also provides for a number of green technologies to be implemented, including alternate energy systems like solar and wind power, worm composting, and organic community garden beds. The project will also feature a 18-acre dog park, accessible fishing pier and other fishing access points, wildlife feed plots and restored prairie areas.

 

Hoffman Park Sale of Land/Cary-Grove Park Development
While I would like to report to you that this project is moving along smoothly, the economic conditions have put a temporary hold on the District’s immediate timeline for development. While we hold no crystal ball, we want to make sure that when the west Hoffman Park property is made available through public auction we can generate the funds necessary to complete a quality recreation facility and complete the remaining development at Cary-Grove Park. We will continue to keep you informed through the District’s website as to when the sale may occur.

 

Which brings me to my last point: the Park District does a great job of providing you with the information that you want about parks and recreation opportunities and news. Through the District’s website, www.carypark.com, you can sign up for the District’s e-newsletter, and your request can be specific as to exactly what you want to receive. Sign up today!

Enjoy your parks this fall!

Bill Harvey, President
Board of Commissioners