Kiwanis Park Reopens After Major Upgrades

The Springfield Park District held a ribbon cutting this week to mark the completion of major renovations at Kiwanis Park. The project includes a range of new features aimed at improving accessibility and recreational opportunities.

Upgrades to the park include a large accessible playground, an 8-foot-wide looped multi-use path, an expanded parking lot, a new shelter with attached restrooms, a fully renovated soccer field, and upgraded sports lighting with energy-efficient LED fixtures. New site furnishings and amenities were also added.

"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 renovations were partially funded by a $400,000 grant from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources through the Open Space Land Acquisition and Development (OSLAD) program. The grant allowed the Park District to expand the project’s scope.

The Springfield Park District completed the project with the involvement of several community organizations and invited residents to visit the park and explore the new features.