Elmhurst families had a crisp and clear fall morning to celebrate the reopening of Salt Creek Park on Saturday, October 5. Board President Vince Spaeth and his fellow commissioners welcomed the community and invited everyone to enjoy the new playground after a short ribbon cutting ceremony.
Salt Creek Park is the Park District’s second oldest park. The original nine and half acres was purchased in 1927 for $20,000. An additional half acre was acquired in 1991. In the early years, the park was known for its swimming hole and its access to Salt Creek for fishing.
The new playground features equipment with more climbing opportunities, additional seating and a Friendship Swing, a multi-user swing that allows kids and adults to swing together.
Redevelopment of the park is aligned with the Park District’s Vision 2020 project goal of improving the condition and maintenance of parks and amenities. Public input about the park plans was also collected through a public meeting, in-person surveys at the playground and an online survey.
Beyond changes on the playground, the paths on the north and east side of the park were connected, to create a looped trail for walkers. A new drinking fountain and resurfaced street parking were also part of the project’s details.
For more information visit the Salt Creek Park project page. Learn more about Vision 2020 at vision2020.epd.org.
