Reimagined Beach Playground To Begin Construction This Fall

LAKE FOREST, IL — After conducting a city-wide survey about a new playground at Forest Park Beach, Lake Forest officials have finalized its design.

More than 570 residents responded to the survey and provided feedback on the two design concepts they were presented. City officials paid attention to feedback to make sure the new playground would have improved accessibility, expanded sensory play, increased shade and exciting climbing features.

“The newly designed playground ensures children and adults of all abilities can interact, play, and explore together,” said Mike Wick, Director of Parks and Recreation. “With accessible ramps, imaginative sensory features, shaded areas, and challenge levels for all ages, this space was carefully crafted to support play for everyone.”

The original playground was built in 2004 and was meant to have a lifespan of 15 to 20 years, and was due for an upgrade, the city said.

Lake Forest has partnered with Kids Around the World, a nonprofit that refurbishes playground equipment for underserved communities, to have two major components of the old playground reinstalled elsewhere.

“We’re thrilled that our playground can live on in another part of the world,” said Chuck Myers, Superintendent of Parks, Recreation, and Forestry. “It’s a great example of how we can reduce waste, give back, and support play for all.”

Construction is scheduled to begin early this fall and is expected to be completed by the end of October, according to the city.