Wantz Memorial Park renovations completed
Investing in Neighborhood Parks: Rockford Park District Celebrates Renovations at Popular Loves Park Neighborhood Park
ROCKFORD, IL – Area youth, teens, and families have a variety of new ways to recreate and spend quality time together, thanks to a major renovation of Wantz Memorial Park, 602 E. Riverside Blvd., Loves Park.
Investing $760,000 to remodel Wantz Memorial Park was possible thanks to funding from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. The Rockford Park District was awarded $315,000 from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) Open Space Lands Acquisition and Development (OSLAD) grant and was able to utilize $405,000 out of its capital funds to fulfill the required grant match.
In 2023, the District gathered feedback from residents and Time 2 Play summer playground program participants about which recreational features they wanted to remain, which new amenities should be added, and how the playground should be designed.
Wantz Memorial Park Reinvestment Project includes:
New playground for kids ages 5 – 12 with unitary playground surfacing
New spray pad
New picnic pavilion
New perimeter fencing
New ball field in a different location
Updated four square court
Communication board to help individuals who are non-verbal
Renovated existing restrooms and storage building for summer program
Updated signage
“Neighborhood parks are critical to the health and well-being of our community, and investing in neighborhood parks is a top priority for the Park District, as stated by the citizens we serve. The renovations completed here will enhance the experience for youth, teens, and families, and property values increase when a home is within 500 feet of a well-maintained park.,” said Owen Carter, Rockford Park District Board of Commissioners representative.
“Renovations at Wantz Memorial Park mark a significant milestone for our community,” said Loves Park mayor Greg Jury. “This park is a tremendous asset for our residents and a welcoming destination for visitors from outside the city. We are excited to watch this neighborhood thrive with the new amenities and opportunities the park provides. The improvements made here are not just about enhancing the physical space, but about fostering community spirit and engagement.”
Renovations to the park began in the fall of 2023. The old playground was removed in October and donated to Kids Around the World.
