Old Presbyterian Church site to become Centennial Park
Park will commemorate Elmwood Park’s upcoming 100th anniversary
ELMWOOD PARK, IL – Elmwood Park Trustees voted unanimously to adopt a resolution to enter into a contract for the demolition of the old Elmwood Park Presbyterian Church at 7600 W. Armitage Ave. This is the first step in the plan to turn the site into the new Centennial Park.
“There are many good memories of the church and its impact on the community throughout the years and we’re pleased that the site will continue to be a public space,” Village President Pete Silvestri said.
The village plans to preserve four of the stained glass windows as well as four of the church pews. Other items will be auctioned off at a later date.
In August, the Board voted unanimously to name the park “Centennial Park” to commemorate the Village’s upcoming 100th anniversary.
“This church has been an important part of the development of Elmwood Park,” said Silvestri. “Residents grew up there, were married there and raised their families as part of that congregation. It is important for the Village to preserve those memories. There will be a sign indicating that the park sits on the former site of the Elmwood Park Presbyterian Church.”
Following its goal to “recycle and sustain,” the Village will incorporate into the park various architectural elements from the building, including the stone archway over the entrance. Responding to the needs of all ages, the park will have a multi-generational outdoor fitness court. There will also be raised garden beds, bocce and shuffle board courts and game tables. The park is expected to be completed in the first half of 2013.
Action taken on village property at Grand Ave. and Harlem Ave.
The Board also adopted a resolution this week that authorizes the demolition of four village owned buildings at the corner of Harlem Ave. and Grand Ave. This is a part of the ongoing Grand and Harlem TIF Improvement Program.
Demolishing the buildings is the first step in securing new development at the site. Once the demolition is complete, the site will be filled to grade and ready for new construction.
Category: Articles, Community News
