Mayor Rahm Emanuel and Chicago Park District Superintendent Michael Kelly announced today that the number of residents across the City enrolled in fall Chicago Park District programs has risen to 81,625, up from 80,000 who were enrolled in spring programs.

Registrations for fall programming have grown by 14 percent in comparison to last fall, in which 71,500 residents registered. Chicago Park District online registrations have also set a new record with 30,038 registrations to date as compared to the previous record of 26,930 registrations that was set in the spring 2013. Estimated gross program revenue has increased 17 percent to $2.22 million versus $1.89 million last fall.

“From Little League in the summer to gymnastics in the fall to year-round swim lessons, the Chicago Park District has something for everyone, regardless of zip code or income level,” said Mayor Emanuel. “Just as we are working to build and restore more parks and playgrounds as part of our initiative to expand recreational opportunities in Chicago, we are also working to further expand our park programming to ensure that all families and children have access to affordable programming where they can play, learn and grow.”

“By offering quality programs, affordable prices and convenient locations, it’s no wonder that the Chicago Park District is a popular option for keeping families active,” said General Superintendent and CEO Kelly. 

In preparation for winter 2014 program registration, residents can view Chicago Park District Winter programs and create wish lists at www.chicagoparkdistrict.com beginning Monday, November 18.  Online registration for parks located west of California Avenue begins on Monday, December 2 at 9 a.m. and online registration for parks located east of California Avenue begins on Tuesday, December 3 at 9 a.m. The Park District works with residents to ensure that programming is affordable regardless of income level.

In-person registration for most parks begins on Saturday, December 7.  Winter programs begin on Monday, January 6, 2014.  For more information, contact your local park or visit www.chicagoparkdistrict.com.

Earlier this year, Mayor Emanuel announced a five-year initiative to invest in parks, playgrounds and recreational spaces throughout the City. As the demand for park programs steadily rises, the Chicago Park District is expanding programs and capital projects.  This fall, Mayor Emanuel and Superintendent Kelly broke ground on a new playground at Cornell Square Park in the Back of the Yards community, cut the ribbon on the Ping Tom Park Field House in the Chinatown community and opened dozens of new playgrounds at parks throughout the city.

###

For more information about the Chicago Park District’s more than 8,100 acres of parkland, more than 580 parks, 26 miles of lakefront, nine museums, two world-class conservatories, 16 historic lagoons, nearly 50 nature areas, thousands of special events, sports and entertaining programs, please visit www.chicagoparkdistrict.com or contact the Chicago Park District at 312.742.PLAY or 312.747.2001 (TTY). Want to share your talent? Volunteer in the parks by calling 312.742.PLAY.