Through an intergovernmental transfer, the Plainfield Park District recently acquired Wheatland Community Park, which was previously owned by Wheatland Township.
The park is located on 127th Street, approximately 1/2 mile east of Route 59 in Plainfield. The five-acre park consists of a baseball field, large gazebo, playground, basketball court, soccer field, walking path and parking lot.
“Anytime two government agencies can come together for the good of the community, it’s a great thing,” said Plainfield Park District Executive Director Carlo Capalbo. “Wheatland Park, combined with our Springs at 127th development, creates a really nice, nine-acre community park in the northeast quadrant of our District.”
Wheatland Community Park and the Springs at 127th now combine to become Wheatland Park. The Park District was awarded an Open Space Lands Acquisition and Development (OSLAD) grant administered by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources in the amount of $377,500 for the development of Springs at 127th this past March.
As for the Wheatland Community Park portion, the Park District has already done a site analysis and audit, and will incorporate the area into its 5-year plan. First up is new signage, maintenance on playground equipment and any other needed safety improvements.
“The Wheatland Community Park is such a great space for families,” said Wheatland Township Supervisor Michael Crowner. “I am excited that under the management of the Plainfield Park District that this important community asset will be able to be improved and expanded upon. Thank you to everyone at Plainfield Park District and Wheatland Township who helped make this transition possible.”
