SR0796 97TH GENERAL ASSEMBLY

SR0796 LRB097 21767 KMW 70285 r

SENATE RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, The Chicago Tribune reported that the Brighton Park neighborhood is the most park-poor neighborhood in the City of Chicago; the community has one small neighborhood park, Kelly Park, which is the recreational focal point for all of its 48,000 residents; and

WHEREAS, Kelly Park has received little money for improvements over the past 40 years; the renovation of Kelly Park is a fundamental step in the community's effort to address street violence and provide a safe environment for children and adults; and

WHEREAS, The Brighton Park Neighborhood Council and the Kelly Park PAC have united to advocate for park improvements, renovations, and safety; and

WHEREAS, The Chicago Park District has assigned a project manager to Kelly Park, who has drafted designs for the park; these proposed renovations include an artificial turf field, new playground equipment and benches, baseball diamonds, a proper drainage system, new sidewalks, and adequate lighting and cameras in all areas of the park; the cost of the renovations are estimated at $2,800,000; therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE SENATE OF THE NINETY-SEVENTH GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we urge the Chicago Park District to prioritize in its capital plan the renovation of Kelly Park in the Brighton Park neighborhood of the 12th Ward of the City of Chicago by 2014; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a suitable copy of this resolution be delivered to the Chicago Park District.