Pick subdivision neighborhood celebrates opening of new park

The neighborhood came to play last Saturday during the ribbon cutting at Pick Park’s new playground. Board Commissioners and Park District staff held a short ceremony before inviting attendees to explore the park. Situated along the Salt Creek Greenway Trail at 151 Monterey Avenue, Pick Park boasts not only a playground, but amenities for all ages, including fitness equipment, game tables and a shade shelter.

Because of its distance from other parks, the Pick subdivision neighborhood was recognized as a park desert in a service analysis conducted in 2016. To tackle this issue, the Park District acquired 1.01 acres in the neighborhood, primarily through an intergovernmental agreement with the City of Elmhurst, in 2021 and 2022.

From the beginning of the planning process, neighbors showed enthusiasm and interest in the park’s development.

“The planning for the development of Pick Park began back in 2022 when the neighborhood came to an open house at this very spot and shared their thoughts, wishes and dreams for the park,” said Park District Executive Director, Jim Rogers.

The Park District was pleased to be a recipient of a $340,300 OSLAD Grant from the State of Illinois in 2023, which funded half the development cost.

The view of Salt Creek and direct access to Salt Creek Greenway Trail give the park a unique atmosphere.

“We are especially appreciative of the Park District’s commitment to preserving the Salt Creek Trail and ensuring harmonious balance between nature and recreation,” said Jennifer Veremis, a Pick subdivision neighbor. 

Split rail fencing serves as a buffer between the play area and the trail. To improve the natural environment, invasive species along the trail were removed and replaced with native wetland plants. 

For the neighborhood, this park offers a whole new way of engaging with one another. 

“Pick Park is more than just a green space. It’s a place where neighbors can come together, children can play and our community can continue to prosper,” added Veremis.