A Message from

from Batavia Summer 2023 Fun Guide

batavia park district waiver and release of all claims

Our Executive Director

Dear Residents:

One of the many things I love about leading a parks and recreation agency is that our team and Board are in constant motion – we have a forward-thinking mindset, always embracing innovation and navigating change as we work together to provide you with experiences to enrich your quality of life. This summer is no exception!

It’s hard to believe that it’s almost time to sink your toes into the sand at the Hall Quarry Beach. Join us for opening day on May 27. Be sure to check out page 24 for our special events at the beach, including our popular Wacky Water Olympics, Christmas in July, and So Long Summer Swim, which wraps up our Quarry season.

After a decade hiatus, is the Windmill Whirl 5K Run returns to the lineup of events at Windmill City Festival. The race starts at 10 a.m. on July 9 and takes runners through a certified course on the Fox River Trail. Register early to receive a limited-edition t-shirt. Runners ages 21 and older have the option of partaking in a post-race beer from a local brewery. See page 10 for details.

On March 21, the Batavia Park Board voted unanimously to name the future community center at 150 Houston Street, the “Patrick J. Callahan Community Center,” in honor of Board President Pat Callahan who has served on the District’s board for 25 years and as Board President since 2005. Under his guidance, the Park District has added more than 200 acres of land and created neighborhood parks within walking distance of every Batavia resident. Pat is a true leader and visionary. Under his guidance, we have upgraded parks, flagship facilities like the Hall Quarry Beach and recreational programs all while experiencing the largest growth period in the District’s history. He is very deserving of this honor.

Mission Statement

Committed to providing fun, safe, and innovative open space and recreational opportunities that will enrich the quality of life for our residents.

The Park Board

Your Park Board is composed of five, nonpaid commissioners selected by you to serve varying terms. The Board is primarily a policy-making body that reflects the needs and interests of all taxpayers.

The Park Board meets the 3rd Tuesday of each month at the Civic Center, 327 W. Wilson St., at 7:00 pm.

Please feel welcome to attend.

• June 20

• July 18

• August 15

I am bursting at the seams to inform you that the Batavia Park District is a recipient of an Open Space Land Acquisition Grant from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. We will receive $600,000 to fund a refreshed master plan for the Clark Island Recreation Area. Within the next year-and-a-half, you will get to experience an outdoor fitness court, new skate park, bike pump track, a Monarch wayfinding station and a fishing station made of bedrock and limestone. Exciting times ahead!

It is my greatest hope that this Fun Guide inspires you to pick up a new hobby, soak up the sounds and sights of nature, or simply take a stroll at your neighborhood park or trail. We have something for all ages!

All the best,

Allison Niemela, CPRP Executive Director