NEWS AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2022 EDITION
Where the fun is!
FREE
UPCOMING EVENTS SEE PAGE 3
BUILDING A PLAYGROUND THAT IS SAFE, FUN AND FOR EVERYONE SEE PAGE 5 TIPS TO PREPARE YOUR CHILD FOR PRESCHOOL SEE PAGE 5
CHRIS MARTNER RETIRES SEE PAGE 6
BACK-TO-SCHOOL BACKPACK SAFETY BY ADVENTHEALTH SEE PAGE 7 A family enjoys the kick off of Visit Your Local Park which took place at Central Park on June 3.
Fall, 5K, Fitness and Fun B _______________________________
Bolingbrook Park District has many exciting events planned to get your blood pumping and heart racing. Parkie’s 5K is right around the corner on Saturday, August 27. This race is perfect for running, walking, and even pushing a stroller. There will also be a 100-yard dash after the 5K for children who are 10 years and under. For those looking to get outdoors, Hit the Trails begins on September 8 and will
run through October 27. Every Thursday, participants will hike the Bolingbrook Park District trails while enjoying the crisp fall air. Are you looking for a new class to join? During the week of October 8, the Bolingbrook Recreation & Aquatic Complex will host free Les Mills Workouts! There is BODYPUMP, a barbell-based workout designed to help you get lean, toned and fit, and BODYATTACK, a high-energy fitness class which combines athletic movements like running with strength exercises such as squats. You can also try out Les Mills GRIT Strength, a 30-minute high-intensity interval
training workout to help you improve strength, cardiovascular fitness and build lean muscle. After participating in programs like these, it is important to take time to recover. Join our Flex and Roll programs to help you relax and stretch your muscles with a foam roller. This class is a great way to ease your tensions and aches. You can also take part in one of our Vinyasa Yoga sessions where poses are linked together with the breath in a flowing sequence. Visit bolingbrookparks.org for more information. bolingbrookparks.org
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A Letter from the Executive Director Board of Commissioners Hello Bolingbrook Friends! I hope you are doing well and that you all had a fun summer. The weather was warm and sunny and our parks, facilities, Pelican Harbor and natural areas were busy again. This is so great to see! President Sue Vastalo svastalo@bolingbrookparks.org
Vice President Jerry Hix jhix@bolingbrookparks.org
Treasurer Dorothy Andrews dandrews@bolingbrookparks.org
Fall is a fun time of year for us at Bolingbrook Park District. We have a ton of new and innovative programs planned, special events scheduled and of course, our parks and paths are open and ready for some cool weather fun. We continue to be committed to bringing you as many in-person activities as we can, with an important focus on wellness and safety. Fall Fest is back after a two-year hiatus. We are excited to bring back this FREE annual event featuring autumn themed activities, a great band and food trucks! I hope you have had an opportunity to visit a few of our renovated playgrounds. This summer we completed Winston Woods, Community, Bradford, Freedom and Sunset Park playgrounds. Each are unique in design and each feature age appropriate attractions. We also celebrated the opening of our new pathway and bridge over the LilyCache Creek by Drafke Park. This path has already been well utilized. As always, please be sure to check our website for details on your favorite fall activities. As we have opened up more and more after a challenging pandemic, we are honored to provide wonderful programs and services for you and your families. The board and staff of Bolingbrook Park District very much appreciate your support more than you will ever know. Happy fall! Sincerely,
Secretary Jake McVey jmcvey@bolingbrookparks.org
Ron Oestreich, Executive Director
Board of Commissioners Meeting Information
Commissioner Frank McKay fmckay@bolingbrookparks.org 2
Where the fun is!
The Bolingbrook Park District Board of Commissioners have scheduled board meetings the third Thursday of each month. All meetings are held in the Board Room at Annerino Community Center, 201 Recreation Drive, Bolingbrook, Illinois. To find the Board Meeting Agendas and Minutes, visit www.bolingbrookparks.org. Each date has a hyperlink that takes you to that month’s minutes or agenda.
Mark Your Calendars Thursday, August 4
Neighborhood Movie Series – The Mitchells vs the Machines 8:30 pm FREE Winston Woods Park (320 Charlestown Dr.)
Thursdays, September 8—October 27
Saturday, September 17
1:00—2:00 pm $20 (includes t-shirt) Meets at various trails
Sponsored by Meijer - FREE 8:30—10:00 am Gateway Wetlands (680 E Boughton Rd)
Hit the Trails
Saturday, September 10 Friday, August 5
Family Obstacle Challenge
Sponsored by Meijer – FREE 6:00—8:00 pm Bolingbrook Recreation & Aquatic Complex (200 Lindsey Ln.)
Take Home Terrariums
10:00—11:30 am $10 ($7 with Resident ID) Annerino Community Center (201 Recreation Dr.)
Thursday, September 15 Fall Florals
Thursday, August 18
Bolingbrook Park District Board of Commissioners Meeting 7:00 pm Annerino Community Center (201 Recreation Dr.)
6:30—8:00 pm $10 ($7 with Resident ID) Annerino Community Center (201 Recreation Dr.)
Thursday, September 15 Saturday, August 27
Parkie’s 5K & Super Parkie’s Fun Run 8:00 am Register at: https://bit.ly/Park135K Bolingbrook Recreation & Aquatic Complex (200 Lindsey Ln.)
Bolingbrook Park District Board of Commissioners Meeting 7:00 pm Annerino Community Center (201 Recreation Dr.)
Birdwatching at Gateway Wetlands
Saturday, September 24 Fall Fest
3:00—6:30 pm FREE admission Bolingbrook Recreation & Aquatic Complex (200 Lindsey Ln.)
October 8-14
FREE Les Mills Workouts
Times Vary – Refer to group fitness schedule Bolingbrook Recreation & Aquatic Complex (200 Lindsey Ln.)
Monday, October 10
Campfire Safety and Cooking 11:30 am—1:00 pm $10 ($7 with Resident ID) James Boan Woods (410 Schmidt Road)
Fall PROGRAM GUIDE AVAILABLE now! STEP-BY-STEP HOW TO FIND THE PROGRAM GUIDE: 1. Visit www.bolingbrookparks.org 2. Click the button that says “View Program Guide” 3. Scroll through and find your fun!
REGISTER for some fun!
Scan to receive a printed version bolingbrookparks.org
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Family Events brought to you courtesy of
Family Obstacle Challenge Friday, August 5 6:00–8:00 pm . 251-T14 Bolingbrook Recreation & Aquatic Complex You live with your family, now it’s time to become a team! Families will navigate their way through fun and demanding obstacles outside. Challenge your balance, speed, flexibility, and family team work. Key Contact: Mike Baiardo
BIRDWATCHING AT GATEWAY WETLANDS
Saturday, September 17
8:30–10:00 am . 230-T04 Gateway Wetlands (680 E Boughton Rd. Park in Walgreens parking lot)
All ages welcome Visit the Gateway Wetlands to learn about the birds that call Bolingbrook Park District their home through observation and handson activities. Perfect for both new and experienced hobbyists. Bring your own binoculars or borrow one of ours. Key Contact: Mike Baiardo 4
Where the fun is!
fresh. family.
Building a Playground that is Safe, Fun and for Everyone Community Park playground located at 600 Kingsbrooke Crossing.
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When it comes to building a playground, the process from start to finish is extensive. There’s the designing, the construction and most importantly, the safety considerations. Over the past few years, the safety requirements on playgrounds have been continuously changing. “There are more
ADA guidelines that we need to follow,” said Ken McEwen, Parks Maintenance Manager. “It is not required in all playgrounds, but that way you can include everyone.” Some rules include developing a standard use zone six feet around an element, and eliminating overlapping use zones between
elements of motion. Slides must have at least a four-inch side wall and clearance zones five feet above. To meet all safety regulations, a lot of strategic planning is involved. The parks team must work together to position elements in a fun and logical way. It is also essential to include park elements visitors will enjoy. At the moment, the most popular pieces of equipment are the ziplines, with which the Bolingbrook Park District is home to three. When it comes to their maintenance, the number one factor is ensuring they are tight. Over time, they begin to develop slack, so it is important to maintain a strong condition. Once a playground is complete and it has passed inspection, it is then open to the public. McEwen described his favorite part of working with parks is seeing the kids have fun. “It is always fun to see kids challenge themselves,” said McEwen. “They don’t know what their ability is unless they try it.” Building playgrounds that families enjoy is important to the Bolingbrook Park District. With fall right around the corner, we encourage you to visit one of our playgrounds near you. To view our park locations, visit https://bolingbrookparks. org/park.
Tips to Prepare Your Child for Preschool
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Fall is right around the corner which means it is back-to-school season! While this time of the year is full of excitement and wonder, it can often be challenging to those leaving home for the first time. With the school countdown beginning, here is some advice from our Stepping Stones preschool teachers on how parents can help make a smooth transition for their child. Keep the Conversation Short and Sweet When discussing preschool with your student, make sure to keep the conversation brief and positive. Simply discuss how fun the experience will be and the different friends they are going to make. Maintaining this outlook is important because your enthusiasm can rub off on the child. “They will take on their parents’ excitement hopefully, and share that feeling too”, says Jody Dimond, preschool teacher for
the Bolingbrook Park District. Building a positive environment before they go can help significantly, and that starts with conversations now. Develop a Routine This new step in life comes with many changes which can often be uncomfortable for children. To ease this transition period, it is helpful to develop a routine prior to the first day of school. There are many ways to practice a new schedule. You can talk it through or maybe use visual aids. If your child is not reading yet, prepare picture cues they can put in order. Creating this in-between period will allow for more independence and make the adjustment back to school much smoother. Give it Time The transition period for every student is different. “Sometimes it can take a couple days and sometimes they just run right in,” says Jody. “It really just depends on the
child.” It might take a while for them to feel at home, and that is completely normal. One piece of advice is to continuously remind them you will come back. Ensure they know that by the end of the day, you will be there to pick them up. Be patient and give it time… they will soon learn to love preschool. Parent Support is There The preschool program is not only there for children, but also adults. When discussing parent concerns, Lori Zoeller, preschool teacher states, “If you are nervous about our program, call and ask your questions and we can talk you through whatever you are worried about. This is an important time for you and your child, and assistance is there should it be needed.” To learn more about the Bolingbrook Park District’s Preschool Programs, visit our website at bolingbrookparks.org/ programs/preschool.
bolingbrookparks.org
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18 Years of Growth and Igniting Flames Chris Martner displaying her award winning photographs for Parks & Recreation Magazine in 2008.
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Chris Martner is the former Director of Buildings, Grounds & Natural Resources here at the Bolingbrook Park District. After working with us for 18 years, she said goodbye and entered into retirement on July 8, 2022. During her time here, Chris held multiple positions in what she calls, “A whirlwind of activity”. Before joining the Bolingbrook Park District team, Chris was an employee for the Morton Arboretum. There, she had been in roles from a seasonal employee to full-time Horticulturalist, and ended as Crew Leader for the Collections Area. Eventually, there was no longer room for advancement, and Chris felt it was time to move on. As she prepared for her next step,
Chris and the team at the 2008 Dream Park Challenge $10,000 grant presentation. the park district world came calling. WOOT WOOT. Since joining the BPD team in 2004, she experienced significant growth both personally and within the organization. One of these positive changes was a referendum that was passed in 2018 to address items in 6
Where the fun is!
the Capital Asset Replacement Program. “Continued strategic planning with the leadership team allowed additions to the Bolingbrook Recreation and Aquatic Center which created family changing rooms, improvements to the island of the Lazy River at Pelican Harbor, and the replacement of aging playgrounds,” said Martner. While working for the Bolingbrook Park District, Chris accomplished many amazing things. She was originally hired as a Maintenance Manager, but was later promoted to a leadership role and department head based on her outstanding leadership abilities. She developed the community garden where residents rent a 10 x 10 square lot to plant vegetables and other items. After ten years, this is the first summer the lots have completely sold out. YAY! Chris has also been a part of numerous Eagle Scout projects to help the youth grow and mature. These projects included constructing benches, building shelving at the Indian Boundary concession stand, and little free libraries. With multiple projects and events under her belt, Chris acquired memories to last a lifetime. The most vivid one being when the park district hosted a paintball tournament at Volunteer Park. It was accompanied by a week’s worth of raking up paintballs and loading them into a dumpster. The paint and oil eventually began to blend together to smell terrible. When describing the event, Chris made a disgusted face and just said, “it smelled rancid”. The odor was so foul she had to ceremoniously throw away a pair of
shoes. Though this memory is still bright, it is nothing compared to the work she did every day. Chris’s favorite memory was “Knowing that I have been able to make an impact on others’ lives, and hopefully have left the Bolingbrook Park District better off than when I started here.” When asked what she would miss most about Bolingbrook Park District, Chris had two words, “the people”. She continued, “I’ve met many wonderful people. The staff I oversee… I’ve watched them grow both personally and professionally. Many of the staff have been here for a lot of years. Several have gotten married and started families, others have started having grandchildren. Several have been promoted during their time here. I am grateful to have had the opportunity to work with such professional colleagues and passionate board members.” Once retired, Chris plans to maintain a busy schedule. She will start her day by sitting on her front porch deck and drinking coffee while watching the sun come up. She wants to volunteer at Versiti Blood, go golfing, and help out family. Don’t worry, her extensive parks background will continue to be of use as she will still be outside plenty.
Chris with Sue Vastalo, Board President, receiving her citation of retirement at the June board meeting. “The most important is completing the landscaping at home”, Chris says. “I am looking forward to gardening.” After 18 years serving the Bolingbrook Park District, Chris would like to end with both a piece of advice and quote. To staff, “the Bolingbrook Park District has a strong, intelligent team. Lean on each other and continue to grow.” To everyone in the community, remember the wise words of Albert Schweitzer, “at times our own light goes out and is rekindled by a spark from another person. Each of us has cause to think with deep gratitude of those who lighted the flame within us.”
Back-to-School Backpack Safety
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Did you know we are placing children at risk for back pain? The growing number of books, notebooks, folders and more needed for school is the cause. Additionally, how a child wears his or her backpack (or the trending style of wear) can play a part. One large European study concluded that students that carry backpacks on one shoulder are four times more likely to experience pain than those using both shoulder straps. “To encourage children to correctly use their backpack, select one that is comfortable, made of lightweight material with cushioned straps and back panel,” says Dr. Muhammad Omer Ansari, a primary care physician with AdventHealth Medical Group Primary Care in Bolingbrook. Good posture and proper body mechanics are key factors to maintaining spine health. A heavy backpack can alter the natural curvature of the spine placing abnormal stress on spine structures. Over time, this
awkward posture can cause a student to develop pain. Dr. Ansari added, “Proper use of backpacks and posture applies to all ages, not just our children heading back to school.” Tips for Backpack Safety: • Light loads. Carry only necessities leaving everything else at home or in a locker. • Wear both shoulder straps. • Wear waist belt if present. • Keep all straps snuggly fastened but not overly tight. • Keep heavier items closer to your back. • Lift properly by bending at the knees when picking up a backpack. Tips for Parents: “Encourage your child to inform you about any back pain, tingling numbness especially in lower extremities,” stresses Dr. Ansari. “We spend a lot of time getting our kids ready for school. Let’s take a few additional moments to help keep their backs injury-free.”
Muhammad Omer Ansari, MD We’re Here to Help Dr. Ansari is here to help your family grow and thrive in body, mind and spirit. He sees children, adolescents, adults and older adults, is fluent in English, Punjabi and Urdu and is accepting new patients. He has office hours at AdventHealth Medical Group Primary Care in Bolingbrook located at 396 Remington Blvd., Suite 380. Call (224) 2734000 for more information or to schedule an appointment.
View Dr. Ansari’s online profile: https://bit.ly/3z9gXjt
Staying healthy STARTS with your primary care provider. Provides regular health screenings Helps keep you from getting sick Knows your medical history Ensures timely treatment for many conditions Helps you live a healthy lifestyle
© 2022 AdventHealth AHMG-103
Serves as a trusted source for medical advice and care re In-person and virtual or telehealth visits available. Call 855-231-1033 or visit AdventHealthBolingbrook.com to find an AdventHealth Medical Group primary physician near you. bolingbrookparks.org
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We ALL Make the Fun Ha
Parkie stealing the sho Enjoying a board game in the shade at Central Park.
VISIT YOUR LOCAL PARKS offered more variety of games such as this pizza toss.
Testing speed and agility with hurdles.
Thank you Outdoor Aq 8
Where the fun is!
Facility Directory
appen!
Annerino Community Center Administrative Office 201 Recreation Drive P (630) 739-0272 | F (630) 739-1039 Relay (800) 526-0844 Ashbury’s at Boughton Ridge 335 E. Boughton Road P (630) 739-2377 | F (630) 759-1648 Bolingbrook Recreation & Aquatic Complex 200 Lindsey Lane P (630) 739-1700 | F (630) 759-5651 Boughton Ridge Golf Course 335 E. Boughton Road P (630) 739-4100 | F (630) 739-1648 Lifestyles Fitness 200 Lindsey Lane | P (630) 739-1705 Pelican Harbor Indoor/Outdoor Aquatic Park 200 Lindsey Lane | P (630) 739-1705
ow at Wednesday Night Summer Concerts.
to everyone who visited Pelican Harbor quatic Park this summer!
Camp Alotta Fun camper getting hands-on archery practice.
Campers exploring the Museum of Science and Industry. bolingbrookparks.org
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Meet Our Staff !
Christopher Finn
Director of Buildings, Grounds & Natural Resources
Chris Finn is the new Director of Buildings, Grounds & Natural Resources here at the Bolingbrook Park District. He is joining us from the LaGrange Park District where he has worked for the last 18 years. In his previous position, Chris had many different responsibilities. “I did everything from recreation programming, facilities management, parks, maintenance and then worked on capital replacement projects,” said Finn. Eventually, he felt it was time for a change and wanted to concentrate on one specific area. That is what led him to Bolingbrook. As the Director of Buildings, Grounds & Natural Resources, Chris is able to narrow his focus. He can spend more time working and concentrating on parks, grounds and maintenance. Chris decided to go into recreation because of his love for the outdoors. “I have always been an outdoors person,” said Finn. “I love being in nature. Whether it is state parks or national parks, I love anything like that.”
In his new role, Chris plans to keep management strong and bring the department together. “I want the team to collaborate and help each other so we can be as strong as we can be.” Finn continues, “I also want to grow the parks and amenities. I would like to bring anything new to the parks that we can.” The most rewarding aspect of Chris’ position is seeing the patrons happy. He explains, “Seeing the kids having fun and playing with a smile on their face is always extremely rewarding.” In his free time, Chris enjoys camping and spending time with his wife and three daughters. He is also a huge advocate for mountain biking and has traveled most of the United States doing so. In 2019, he biked in ten different states all the way from Nevada to North Carolina. Chris can be reached at cfinn@ bolingbrookparks.org or (630) 783-6562.
Northern Will County Special Recreation Association SAFETY • FUN • TEAMWORK INCLUSION • INTEGRITY 10 Montrose Drive, Romeoville, IL 815-407-1819 • www.nwcsra.org
ABOUT US Northern Will County Special Recreation Association (NWCSRA) represents the partnership between Bolingbrook Park District, Lockport Township Park District, Plainfield Park District, the Village of Romeoville, Brookeridge Park District and JusticePark District. Our mission is to provide meaningful recreation opportunities for individuals with disabilities that enhance their overall quality of life.
INCLUSION SERVICES NWCSRA works collaboratively with the park district to provide reasonable accommodations to individuals with a disability who wish to participate in a program through the park district. Individuals should be provided the opportunity to participate in recreation programs of their choice in the least restrictive environment. For additional questions regarding inclusion support, contact Carrie Gascoigne at 815-407-1819 ext. 9776.
Join our mailing list: email msiebert@nwcsra.org Be sure to also “Like” us on Facebook!
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Where the fun is!
New Playgrounds in Bolingbrook!
Freedom Park (1600 Park Pl.)
with Ninja Course!
Sunset Park
(1500 Waterside Dr.)
bolingbrookparks.org
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presented by bolingbrook park district &
! s n r u Ret
Saturday, September 24th 3:00 3:00–6:30 – 6:30 pm
Fun for the whole family FREE ADMISSION
Live Music • Food Vendors • Family Games and Activities Bolingbrook Recreation & Aquatic Complex (200 Lindsey Lane)
Schedule of Events—Saturday • September 24
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3:00–5:00 pm
Fountaindale Public Library Bookmobile
3:00–6:30 pm
Variety of food vendors
3:00–6:30 pm
Family games and activities including archery, tricycle races, climbing wall, bingo, pumpkin patch, team building, RC car racing and more!
5:00–6:30 pm
Live music from Run Forrest Run, Run, The Ultimate 90’s Party! bolingbrookparks.org
Where the fun is!
Acres
Skate Park
Fishing
Biking, Hiking
Restroom
Pavillion/Shelter
Picnic Tables
Parking Lot
Roller Hockey
Volleyball
Soccer Fields
Football Field
Cricket Fields
Baseball/Softball
Basketball Courts
Tennis Courts
Pickelball Courts
Playgrounds
.= Disability Accessible R= Lighted Facilities t= Port-o-let z = Zipline
Concessions
B O L I NGBROO K PA RKS
(S=sand P=paved)
Park Amenities
Arrowhead Pond 349 W. Robinhood Way
3.4
Balstrode Park 181 Thackeray Drive
6.2
Blackhawk Pond 600 Blackhawk Lane
3.3
Bloomfield Oasis 1614 Prairieview Blvd Bradford Park 490 Bradford Place
1
z
6.8
Bulldog Park 351 Blair Lane
19.2
Central Park 201 Recreation Drive
71.7
Century Park 1675 Apple Valley Drive
16
Champions Park 1600 Firethorn
8.8
Cider Creek Park 1755 Apple Valley Drive
4
ComEd Greenway 811 Remington Boulevard
54
Community Park 600 Kingsbrooke Crossing
15
Drafke Park 1125 Quail Run
6.7
DuPage River Greenway 990 W. Boughton Road to Concord Lane
92.2
Erickson Park 398 W. Briarcliff Road
0.5
Freedom Park 1600 Park Place
4.3
Gateway Wetlands 680 Feathersound Drive
49.9
Heritage Park 702 Paxson Drive
5.6
Indian Boundary Park 990 W. Boughton Road Indian Chase Meadows 525 Pheasant Chase Drive
62.4
z
34.2
Ivanhoe Park 190 Falconridge Way
1
James S. Boan Woods 410 Schmidt Road
47.1 / 27
Jaycee Park 550 Lily Cache Lane
7.2
Johansen Farm Park 770 Hartford Lane
1.6
Knights of Columbus Park 190 Northridge Avenue
18.4
Liberty Park 298 N. Orchard Drive
8
Lilac Park 1561 Clear Drive Lily Cache Greenway Park 1422 Parkside Drive
3.5
z
Lily Cache Greenway Trail 1357 Hassert Blvd
191.2
Lily Cache Sports Fields 1387 Hassert Boulevard
15
Lily Cache Sports Fields-West Campus 1505 Trails End Lane
32.1
Lions Park 220 W. Briarcliff
5.4
Pathways Pond 220 N. Schmidt Road
3.6
Plimmer Park 401 Lily Cache Lane
10.5
Poplar Park 870 Poplar Lane
3.6
Prairie Trails 1370 Danhof Drive
48.4
Remington Lakes Sport Complex 811 W. Remington Blvd.
12
Riverbend Park 1940 Danube Way
1.2
River Hills Park 2290 Misty Creek Trail
3.6
Rotary Park 470 E. Briarcliff Road
6.8
Schraeder Park 469 E. Briarcliff Road
1.3
St. Francis Park 299 White Water Drive
2.3
Sunset Park 1500 Waterside Drive
7.4
The Forest 1399 Carriage Lane
0.8
Veterans Park 1877 Leeds Road
12
Volunteer Park 200 S. Lindsey Lane
66.2
Winston Woods 200 Winston Drive
13
Wipfler Park 549 Rockhurst Road
42.1
z
10.5
bolingbrookparks.org
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1
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Where the fun is!
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3 4
6
TRAILS 1
Lily Cache Greenway by Prairie Trails Park
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Lily Cache Greenway Trail by Bloomfield Oasis / Lily Cache Sports Complex
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DuPage River Greenway by Indian Boundary Park / Hidden Lakes
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Knights of Columbus Park
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Gateway Wetlands
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ComEd Greenway
bolingbrookparks.org
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201 Recreation Dr. . Bolingbrook, IL 60440
Parkie’s 5K & Super Parkie’s Fun Run
Saturday, August 27 8:00 am
REGISTER HERE https://bit.ly/Park135K
Sign Up Here! 16
Where the fun is!