Mayor Richard M. Daley today introduced an ordinance to authorize funding for renovations to Dunbar Park located at 300 E. 31st St. in the Douglas Park Community Area.

"Developing additional parks is part of our commitment to providing open space and recreational opportunities to neighborhoods across 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."

The Douglas Park Community Area continues to grow; the outdated park facility is increasingly used by neighborhood residents.  The Department of Zoning and Planning is seeking authority to transfer $1,000,000 in funding allocated through the Bronzeville Tax Increment Financing (TIF) to facilitate improvements to Dunbar Park.

Renovations to the 20-acre park site will include remodeled ball fields, a new playground, landscaped formal gardens and walking trails for residents.

The ordinance authorizing the TIF funding will provide the Chicago Park District with the matching funds to complete the park project.

The Chicago Park District will contribute an additional $1,000,000 to costs associated with the Dunbar Park improvement project.

The park renovation furthers the goal of the CitySpace Plan which is dedicated to preserving and expanding park recreational opportunities within underserved communities.  The CitySpace Plan was adopted in 1998.

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