Nikkolas Delgado of Elmhurst Boy Scout Troop 417 along with volunteers and Park District staff recently completed landscape renovations for the 9/11 Memorial at Wild Meadows Trace and Spring Road.
He reached out to the Park District for a community service opportunity which he could use as his final Eagle Scout project. The memorial was overdue for landscape improvement and, with the 20th Anniversary of 9/11 coming up this year, the timing was ideal.
“Nikkolas was excited to take on such an impactful site which is appreciated and visited by the Elmhurst community,” said Michelle Karabetsos, Park District Horticulturist.
Overgrown shrubs surrounding the memorial were removed and the beds were edged and mulched. A design including Oakleaf Hydrangeas, Coral Bells and low growing Phlox was presented to Nikkolas by Park District staff. The plantings will offer interest throughout the year. Nikkolas liked the plan and completed a fundraiser to donate to part of the cost for the planting material.
“Nikkolas was very proud to see this project come together as he was able to encourage countless scouts and volunteers from the community to help,” said Karabetsos.
Park District staff, including Karabetsos, Billy Roman, Brad Bjerga and Jenny Glowinski joined Nikkolas and his team to complete the project ahead of their original timeline. The new plantings open up the area and rejuvenate the space for park visitors.
“All of Nikkolas’s work made this project a true community collaboration, full of fun and integrity and overall a delightful experience for the park district to be a part of,” added Karabetsos.
