Governor Quinn Announces Investments in Chicago Park District Projects

CHICAGO - Governor Pat Quinn today announced capital investments of $3 million for Chicago Park District development and improvement projects. Funded by his Illinois Jobs Now! construction program, the projects are part of Governor Quinn's agenda to increase recreational opportunities, create jobs and drive Illinois' economy forward.

"As we head into the cold months of fall and winter, we need to make sure our indoor recreational facilities are safe, accommodating and ready to welcome children all across Chicago," Governor Quinn said. "Investments in these three park spaces will ensure families have a place to learn and play for years to come."

The Palmer Park Field House will receive an investment of $787,500 to rehabilitate the facility's interior and exterior to help improve accessibility for all residents. The total estimated project cost is $1,050,000.

"These renovations will ensure that use of the Palmer Park Field House is accessible to all members of our community," 9th Ward Alderman Anthony Beale said. "Thank you Governor Quinn for investing in the future of the 9th ward."

The Calumet Park Field House received a state investment of $814,500 to renovate the facility's mechanical, plumbing and electrical systems. Governor Quinn today visited the park to mark the completion of the project.

"Investments in our parks are an investment in our kids," 10th Ward Alderman John Pope said. "The improvements at Calumet Park allow children and adults alike to more fully enjoy the wonderful programs at our parks and Chicago's beautiful lake front."

Both the Palmer Park and Calumet Park projects will benefit communities within Illinois' Millennium Reserve boundaries. Located in the southeast lakefront area of Chicago, Millennium Reserve is a 210-square mile, growing region with thriving commerce, communities and wildlife. It encompasses dozens of south side neighborhoods and 37 south suburban communities.

The Holstein Park Field House will receive a $1,425,000 investment to rehabilitate the facility's interior and exterior. The total estimated project cost is $1.9 million.

"Our entire community is ecstatic for Governor Quinn's commitment to securing PARC funding that will match the years of effort and hard work of our neighbors in rebuilding and sustaining Holstein Park Field House for another century," 32nd Ward Alderman Scott Waguespack said.

The investments announced today are part of $50 million available through the Parks and Recreational Facility Construction (PARC) program, which is funded by Governor Quinn's Illinois Jobs Now! construction program. PARC provides investments to eligible local governments for park and recreation construction projects.

Eligible projects include land acquisition, development, architectural planning, construction, rehabilitation and improvements.

"Investment in local park districts is an investment in the future of Illinois communities," Illinois Department of Natural Resources Director Marc Miller said. "These grants will help maintain a high quality of life that is vital for attracting young families."

PARC projects are part of Governor Quinn's $31 billion Illinois Jobs Now! program, which will support more than 439,000 jobs over six years. Illinois Jobs Now! is the largest construction program in Illinois history, and is one of the largest construction programs in the nation.