A new playground and soccer field would be built in historic Humboldt Park through an $800,000 Tax Increment Financing (TIF) measure introduced to City Council today by Mayor Richard M. Daley.

Nearly 75 percent of the funds would be used for the new playground proposed for the 1300 block of North California Avenue. The playground would feature climbing equipment and a water spray for toddlers.

Most of the remaining funds would be used to construct the soccer field on the 1300 block of North Marin Drive. Featuring lighting and synthetic turf, the field would address ongoing public demand for soccer space within the 206-acre park, one of the largest and oldest in the Chicago Park District system.

“These park projects are part of our commitment to providing open space and recreational opportunities to neighborhoods throughout the City,” Mayor Richard M. Daley said. “Green space and open parkland is an important part of our commitment to the quality of life for all of Chicago’s residents.”

Dugout upgrades to five baseball fields within the park are also included in the proposal.

The funds would be allocated from the Division/Homan Tax Increment Financing district. TIF is a City of Chicago funding tool that's used to promote infrastructure and other improvements in designated districts across the city.