SPRINGFIELD PARK DISTRICT TO HOST RIBBON-CUTTING CEREMONY FOR KIWANIS PARK REDEVELOPMENT PROJECT

Springfield, IL – The Springfield Park District is excited to announce the official ribbon cutting for the newly redeveloped Kiwanis Park, a transformative community project that brings state-of-the-art recreational amenities and expanded accessibility to one of Springfield’s beloved green spaces.

The ribbon cutting will celebrate the completion of a comprehensive park renovation featuring a large, community-sized accessible playground, an 8-foot-wide looped multi-use path network throughout the park, an expanded parking lot, a new shelter with attached restroom facilities, a fully renovated soccer field, upgraded sports lighting with energy-efficient LED fixtures and new poles, as well as all new site amenities and furnishings.

“The transformation of Kiwanis Park would not have been possible without the dedicated support and collaborative spirit of our community partners,” said Leslie Sgro, President of the Springfield Park District Board of Trustees. “From the International Soccer Club’s expertise in creating quality playing fields to the Urban Action Network’s valuable grass-roots survey that captured neighborhood priorities, these organizations have enriched this project with their insights and passion. Together, we’ve created a vibrant community space that truly reflects the diverse needs and aspirations of our residents.”

The project was made possible in part by a generous $400,000 grant from the State of Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) through the Open Space Land Acquisition & Development Program (OSLAD). This funding allowed the Park District to expand the scale and scope of improvements, ensuring long-term value and impact for Springfield residents.

We invite the community to attend the ribbon-cutting ceremony to help celebrate this milestone and enjoy a first look at the park’s many new features.

Ribbon Cutting Details:
Kiwanis Park – 3050 Stanton Drive, Springfield, IL
Date – May 28, 2025
Time - Noon

*One or more members of the Park Board may be present at this event.

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For more information on this topic and any other Park District news-related items, please visit our website at springfieldparks.org.

About the Springfield Park District: Parks, People, and Possibilities
Celebrating 125 Years of Parks, People, and Possibilities, the Springfield Park District continues its mission of enriching lives through recreation and conservation. Established on February 8, 1900, it is the second park district formed in Illinois and remains an independently governed municipal agency. The District provides accessible and memorable recreational opportunities while preserving natural resources for future generations. With over 36 parks, recreational facilities, and natural areas, the Springfield Park District offers diverse programs, events, and rental spaces for all to enjoy. Governed by a publicly elected board and operating with less than six percent of local tax funding, the District remains a leader in delivering exceptional value with many fun programs and events this year. Find your fun, find your smile at springfieldparks.org