Harmon Park Improvements
Neighbors Enjoy New Recreational Amenities at Harmon Park Thanks to Funding Secured by Illinois State Representative Maurice West
ROCKFORD IL – Residents living near Harmon Park, 1924 East Gate Parkway, Rockford were among the first to utilize and celebrate new park amenities which will help improve their quality of life.
A “Light Up the Night Walk” was held Thursday night at Harmon Park. Construction began at the end of June on a variety of park improvements including: a new recreation path with fitness stations and pathway lighting. The asphalt pathway is 8’ wide and a total of 1/3 mile in length and goes around the perimeter of the park maintaining existing trees and foliage. Three fitness stations and twenty-nine LED pathway lights on timers are also located along the pathway.
This project was made possible by a $432,000 grant from the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) secured through the advocacy of Representative West who went door-to-door asking residents about their wants and needs within the neighborhood.
“I am so pleased to mark the completion of the infrastructure improvements at one of my favorite parks. The new paths and path lighting will make Harmon Park more enjoyable and beneficial for residents who love using the park for recreation and relaxation. Thank you to the Rockford Park District and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity for again investing in Rockford and its residents,” said Representative Maurice West, 67th District.
During its community-led master plan process in 2018, the Rockford Park District heard that investing in neighborhood parks, trails, open space, and recreation paths are top priorities to citizens. Over the last five years, the Rockford Park District has been working hard to free up resources and invest in neighborhood parks to make sure that parks have amenities that are safe, well-maintained, and meet the needs of this and succeeding generations.
“Neighborhood parks are critical to the health and well-being of our community and often help define a neighborhood. Trails, bike connectivity, and path systems are a growing trend locally as well as nationally throughout our industry. Paths spur economic development, retain our tax base, connect other assets throughout the region, and unite residents for their common love of play. We cannot thank Representative West enough for advocating for us and valuing the importance of parks and recreation,” said Rockford Park District Executive Director Jay Sandine.
Construction was completed by Stenstrom Companies, Ltd., William Charles Electric, and additional lighting support came from ComEd.