Sunrise Park grand re-opening set for June 21

UPDATE: GRAND OPENING OF SUNRISE PARK HAS BEEN POSTPONED DUE TO EXTREME HEAT

The Bensenville Park District is planning a mid-June unveiling of Sunrise Park, with a grand re-opening celebration scheduled from 10 a.m. to noon on Saturday, June 21. The project, which began in September 2024, is slated to be completed on budget and ahead of schedule.

The announcement follows major renovations to the 7.3-acre neighborhood park, located at the intersection of Memorial and Marion Streets, funded in part by a $570,100 grant from the State of Illinois’ Open Space Land Acquisition and Development (OSLAD) program.

Sunrise Park’s $1.1 million renovation is part of the Bensenville Park District 2.0 capital improvement plan, which includes approximately $5 million in community investment to upgrade neighborhood parks and facilities. Previous projects under the plan includes the Breiter-Palm Park playground for all and fitness trail as well as Arbor Park playground.

The Sunrise Park improvements include redevelopment of the playground with accessible features and swings, rope climbing apparatus and slide, installation of a futsal court, two pickleball courts, half-court basketball, a soccer field and a pollinator garden with interpretive signage. The renovation also emphasizes accessibility, with poured-in-place rubber surfacing and ADA-compliant walking paths ensuring equitable access to all areas of the park.

The free grand re-opening event will feature a carnival-like atmosphere with a presence from the park district’s partners in the community and in business. The park district will have soccer, futsal, basketball and pickleball on the athletic fields and courts. A bounce house, rock climbing wall, face-painting, balloons and food vendors (free popcorn and hot dogs!) are planned as well as a visit from "Captain Jack Sparrow!" Visitors won't want to miss representatives from the Chicago Fire professional soccer club.

“Receiving the OSLAD grant has been transformational for the Bensenville Park District and the community we serve,” says Executive Director Joseph Vallez. “The improvements to Sunrise Park will enhance the quality of life for those in our district, allowing those of all ages and abilities to enjoy new opportunities to get out and play at this renovated space. We look forward to unveiling the finished project”