by Kate D’Avignon
The parking lot located across from River Forest Village Hall is set to turn into a park called Heritage Square by summer, according to officials. o
The project plans, budgeted at $100,000, were approved 5-0 by the village board at the May 11 meeting. Costs for the project, located at the corner of Park Avenue and Lake Street, are estimated at $70,000.
In a letter to officials, Matt Walsh, village administrator, and Jack Bielak, director of public works and engineering, said the name of the park is symbolic of the village’s motto, “Proud Heritage, Bright Future.”
“The initial phase of construction is intentionally simple, enabling the space to be opened for public use this summer,” Walsh and Bielak said in the memo. “Additional amenities may be considered in future phases based on resident use and feedback.”
Public works will serve as the general contractor for the project. Staff will perform a certain scope of work, while other duties may be assigned to subcontractors. Walsh said staff members have performed the design work internally, saving an estimated $30,000 in professional costs. The scope of work includes asphalt and concrete removal, topsoil installation, and sidewalk construction. Other potential improvements include public art installations, flagpoles, play elements, and expanded paved areas.
A landscaping company will be contracted to install and maintain both native plantings and ornamental plantings. The concept also includes installation of benches and receptacles for trash and recycling, partially funded by a $7,500 grant from the Illinois Realtors Association. The ornamental fencing currently onsite will be retained and extended along Park Avenue. The existing mature trees will remain in place.
Trustee Erika Bachner proposed incorporating a means to refill water bottles, with support from Walsh, and the possibility of filling dog bowls. In response to a question from Trustee Lisa Gillis, Bielak said staff members will handle routine maintenance of the grounds but anticipates using an outside contractor for annual landscaping “tuneups.”
Walsh proposed extending electricity to the site to support future enhancements, such as lighting or audiovisual features.