Decatur Park District celebrates a century of success, growth

DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) — For a century, the Decatur Park District has served the Decatur community by offering green spaces, recreational activities, and opportunities for people of all ages.

It started with a donation from the Faries family and it has since evolved into what people see today, with parks, activity centers, the zoo, and the airport.

"For us and our staff to be able to celebrate the 100th anniversary is just so exciting," said Clay Gerhard, Executive Director.

Millions of people have utilized Decatur Park District's prosperities. During Thursday morning's community breakfast, Gerhard shared that since 1961 to this year people have played 9 million rounds of golf. Since 1967 more than 4 million people have visited Scovill Zoo.

"Our community has been very blessed by the grant dollars that we have received from the state and private donors. So, we can build on what we've already got and we can continue to make progress."

Recent grants and donations have allowed the district to make major renovations. Gerhard shared a private donation allowed for Scovill Zoo to build a puma exhibit. The plan is to break ground in spring 2024 and open the exhibit in 2025.

The district has also poured money into renovating green space. Garfield Park will get a major face-lift. The district has planned to build a new playground, a new pavilion, a parking lot, and an interactive ball wall.

"You know we have all of these amazing facilities, but we can't forget about our parks," Gerhard said. "Our park system used to be jammed full of people, but there have been social changes. So, we must figure out how to get people back in the parks."

Lastly, the district plans to build a senior center at Scovill West Park. Gerhard shared on Thursday with the community the plan to have a fitness center, activity room, and pickleball courts. He added that the district has already secured $2.8 million for the project.

Gerhard said his team has worked hard to bring exciting talent to the Devon Lakeshore Amphitheater for the 2024 season. As for upcoming events, the district will host a Rolling Back Time rolling skating event. It will be held in Fairview Park on February 2 - 4 and 9-11.

Other upcoming events include:

- Here Come The Mummies on March 2 at the Decatur Indoor Sports Center.

- Wiffle Ball Classic in March at the DISC.

- Art Jamboree at the Devon in May.

- Hardy's Highway on June 8 & 9 at Lake Decatur.

- Wings and Wheels at the Decatur Airport on August 2 & 3.