Per the District’s 20-year playground replacement schedule, staff recommend funding $740,000 in the 2025 capital budget to redevelop the Berens Park Hub playground, which was last updated in 2004. The proposed project includes replacing the playground equipment ($510,000) and safety surface ($130,000) along with demolition, site preparation, general site work, and landscaping ($100,000). The equipment has been deteriorating due to high use, requiring regular repairs that continue to rise in cost. Staff proposes reconfiguring the playground layout to improve its design and introduce new equipment and amenities that reduce the need for regular updates.
A public input meeting was held on July 16, 2024 to gather feedback on what amenities and features the community prefers in the playground design. Based on this input, staff created two playground concepts and collected feedback in an online community survey to shape the proposed play area master plan, which is anticipated to be approved by the Board on November 11, 2024. Subsequent to Board approval, staff will develop construction drawings and bid specifications and anticipate the Board will award the construction contract in early 2025.
Staff propose funding this project with General Fund reserves ($540,000) and SRA Fund property tax levy revenue ($200,000).
This project falls under the Elevate Elmhurst Parks Priority of Invigorated Parks
Tactic: Implement Berens Park Hub playground master plan