Slide into Fun with Newly-Opened Filbert Playlot

Parents can rejoice with a new place where kids can let off steam. After two years of fundraising, the Filbert Playlot Park is open to climbers and sliders. 

The playlot sits at 1822 W. Larchmont Ave., next to the Irving Park Brown Line Station. 

Two years ago, the park’s equipment was more than 20 years old and out of code. Families had to travel more than seven blocks to the next playground.

When parents and businesses formed the Friends of Filbert Playlot in July 2010, they led a grassroots effort to renovate the play space.

The nonprofit raised approximately $350,000 for the park, with one-third coming from Ward 47 Ald. Ameya Pawar and another third from the Chicago Park District. 

Neighbors celebrated at the grand opening reception Dec. 15.

The city acquired the property in 1959 and transferred it over to the Chicago Park District. In 1973, it officially became Filbert Park.