Page 2 - Winter/Spring 2017

A Letter from the executive Director
Dear Joliet Park District Residents,
Since accepting the Joliet Park District Executive Director position this past April, I have enjoyed becoming familiar with all the park district’s outstanding facilities and parks along with getting to know the great sta . I have also been impressed by the community’s involvement, support, and pride for the Joliet Park District.
My main focus from day one and will continue until completed, are the 2014 voter approved Joliet Park District Referendum projects. I have been committed to working with you, the Joliet Park District residents, the Park Board of Commissioners and sta on ensuring that the projects meet the needs of the community and are scally responsible. Below are a few updates on some of the referendum projects:
Pilcher Park Roads & Trails Improvements began in August and started with the upper Pilcher Park trail (from Rt. 6) along with the North and West parking lots. In the spring, improvements to the East and Nature Center parking lots, Nature Center and Greenhouse trails, Snake Hill and the roads throughout the park will be completed. Our goal is to have all Pilcher Park road & trails improvements completed by July of 2017.
Nowell Park Community Center has encompassed many hours and planning to ensure this facility o ers the best amenities for the needs of the community. Construction is planned to begin early 2017.
Tree Restoration has begun with the removal of dead trees throughout the district mostly due to the Emerald Ash Borer insect infestation. Currently, the main focus has been at the three golf courses where the e ect of the infestation has been signi cant. A management plan is underway for replacing the trees.
Safety and Security Improvements, which include additional outside lighting and adding surveil- lance cameras at facilities, are currently being planned and are scheduled to be completed by March 2017.
Renovating and improving numerous parks has been the most rewarding projects this year. It’s amazing to see what a newly renovated park will do for a neighborhood. Families enjoying the outdoors and time together. Currently 11 out of the 20 parks chosen to be improved have been completed. Please visit our website jolietpark.org to see the list of parks.
The Joliet Park District is committed to providing responsive, friendly, courteous and excellent service to our residents. We strive to provide a welcoming environment where you receive e cient and friendly service from knowledgeable/well-trained sta and promise to continue to search for innovative methods to improve our service to you, the Joliet Park District residents.
On behalf of the Board of Commissioners and sta , thank you for your continued support. If you have any questions, comments or concerns please do not hesitate to contact the Park District at 815-741-7275.
Sincerely,