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Following the approval by the Chicago City Council of two Tax Increment Financing (TIF) proposals amounting to $12.7 million, the Chicago Park District is set to invest nearly $15 million in capital projects at Piotrowski Park and Douglass Park. The plans include a permanent pool enclosure at Piotrowski Park, located in South Lawndale, and major renovations to the fieldhouse at Douglass Park in North Lawndale.
Chicago Park District General Superintendent and CEO Carlos Ramirez-Rosa commented, "Piotrowski Park and Douglass Park are vital community anchors that support healthy active living, foster community connections and contribute to a greater quality of life for neighboring families and other stakeholders.” He expressed excitement over bringing the pool enclosure and fieldhouse renovations to fruition, thanking the City Council, Mayor Brandon Johnson, and local representatives for their support.
Mayor Brandon Johnson noted, "We're proud to move forward with this investment into the Little Village and North Lawndale communities. When we say that we are focused on 'investing in people,' this is exactly what we mean."
The proposed work at Piotrowski Park includes constructing a permanent enclosure around its swimming pool to allow for year-round operation. The aquatics programs at the park currently serve over 1,800 participants annually. According to Alderperson Mike Rodriguez, "This is not just about a pool; it’s about delivering equity, expanding opportunity, and investing in the future of our youth and our neighborhood."
The budget for the $9.1 million Piotrowski Pool project includes $8 million from TIF, $1 million in Federal Community Project Funding, and a $150,000 state grant. Community engagement for the project design is planned for Spring/Summer 2025.
At Douglass Park, renovations will address the functionality of the fieldhouse's lower level, providing new restrooms with pool access, storage spaces, a dance studio, multi-purpose and lounge areas, among other upgrades. Alderwoman Monique Scott said, “That’s why I proudly allocated $4.7 million in TIF funds to the Chicago Park District, specifically for improvements to Douglass Park."
Douglass Park, a designated cultural center, is expected to expand its cultural, athletic, and wellness programs post-renovation. The $5.7 million renovation project is funded by $4.7 million in TIF and a $1 million state grant, with the design and community engagement phase slated to begin this year and construction planned for 2026.
