FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Derek Harms
Date: May 19, 2026
Phone: (217) 544- 1751 ext. 1000
SPRINGFIELD PARK DISTRICT’S GIETL PARK REDEVELOPMENT PROJECT
Gietl Park, Springfield, IL 62702 I 1900 Stanhope Road I GPS 39.8248927,-89.614176
Springfield, IL – The Springfield Park District is pleased to announce the official Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for the redevelopment of Gietl Park. The ribbon cutting for Gietl Park, taking place on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, at Noon at the splash pad.
The Springfield Park District received a $600,000 grant from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) to support this redevelopment project, which included a splash pad, family-friendly park shelter for gatherings and events, concrete plazas and walkways to accessibility, enhanced lighting for evening use, modern site furnishings such as a hammock area, benches, and trash receptacles, and lush landscaping to enhance the beauty of the park. These improvements are part of a larger vision to create a space that’s not only FUN but also safe and accessible for all.
“We are truly grateful to the Illinois Department of Natural Resources for their continued support for our work in the Springfield community,” said Leslie Sgro, Park Board President. “These funds allowed us to redevelop a cherished community area, bringing new life to family gatherings and events.”
We invite you and your families to come out and participate in the ribbon-cutting celebration on Tuesday, May 26th, at Noon.
Please note that one or more board members may be present at this event.
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For more information on this topic and any other Park District news-related items, please visit our website at springfieldparks.org
About the Springfield Park District
Celebrating 126 years of Parks, People, and Possibilities, the Springfield Park District continues its mission of enriching lives through recreation, conservation, and community connection. Established on February 8, 1900, as the second park district in Illinois, the District remains an independently governed municipal agency offering accessible parks, facilities, programs, events, and rentals for all ages. With more than 36 parks and natural areas, publicly elected leadership, and operations supported by less than six percent of local tax funding, the Springfield Park District delivers exceptional value while preserving resources for future generations—learn more at springfieldparks.org.