The Chicago Park District board of commissioners recently celebrated Black History Month in a presentation about various programs and events taking place in city parks.
The board also voted to give Promontory Point historic status, and approved land transfers expanding Aspen Park at 4237 S. Wabash and Polar Park at 4044 S. Prairie on the South side of Chicago, according to a statement release by the Park District Board. The board gave provisional approval for major events to be able to take place at the parks.
“This month’s board agenda exemplifies the Chicago Park District’s commitment to our city’s treasured parks,” Chicago Park District General Superintendent and CEO Rosa Escareño said. “From preserving the historic character of spaces like Promontory Point to expanding existing properties and developing new parks, these measures add long term value to our neighborhoods and many invaluable health and well-being benefits for Chicago families.”
Promontory Park was granted the designation of a Chicago landmark through a unanimous vote. This is a lakefront feature that is in Burnham Park that is under consideration of the Chicago Commission on Landmarks. Prairie School designer Alfred Caldwell designed the park, which is on the National Register of Historic Places.
Next will be a presentation by the city to the commission and a vote by Chicago City Council. The designation ensures that permit approvals will be needed for any changes to be made to the area. The transfer of 3.59 acres of land from the city was approved by the board, which allows the district to expand both Aspen Park and Polar Park located in the Grand Boulevard community. Also authorized was the transfer of Robert Jackson Park, which is a .24 acre parcel located in Grand Boulevard.
Events like the Bank of Chicago Shamrock Shuffle, Hot Chocolate Run Chicago and others were approved, as well.
During the meeting, board received a presentation about Black History Month programs and events that are being held in parks this month. These include the Westside Film Series at Homan Square Community Center Park on Thursday, Feb. 23, and the Community Black History Exhibit at Brainerd Park on Friday, Feb. 24, among others.
“I acknowledge with great pride the shoulders of the many giants that we stand upon and I believe that there is no greater honor than to continue building upon the legacy that has been set before us and to forge a path toward equity and justice,” Board President Myetie Hamilton said.
There are 46 parks named in honor of Black leaders in the city.