Niles Park District Debuts Renovated Golf Mill Park

The Niles Park District celebrates the opening of its fully renovated Golf Mill Park from 10 a.m. to noon on Saturday. The event takes place at Church Street and Cumberland Avenue, inviting the public to join Park District and Village of Niles officials. This morning event marks the conclusion of a significant $3.5 million renovation project.

The master plan focuses on the eastern half of Golf Mill Park facing Cumberland Avenue. Formal remarks will commence at 10:15 a.m., followed by a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 10:30 a.m. Park District Board of Commissioners members and Village officials will participate in this milestone.

Attendees can explore the newly enhanced park, enjoying complimentary ice cream, children’s giveaways, and a face painter. These festivities allow visitors to appreciate the park’s transformation into a multi-use recreational hub.

The $3.5 million renovation benefited from a $1.2 million grant via the Open Space Land Acquisition and Development (OSLAD) program. The Illinois Department of Natural Resources administers this program, providing crucial funding for over a third of the project’s total costs.

The renovation has modernized Golf Mill Park, offering new pickleball courts and revamped tennis and basketball courts. Other upgrades include a soccer field with artificial turf, expanded walking paths, a larger playground, a picnic shelter, and game tables. A dedicated seating area, baggo courts, and a fitness station also enhance the park’s appeal.

Jim Hynes, President of the Niles Park District Board of Commissioners, expressed pride in the project. “This is what the Niles Park District does — we bring fun to life for families across our community,” he stated. Hynes added, “Golf Mill Park has been a gathering place for Niles families for generations, and this renovation ensures it will be for generations to come.”

The OSLAD program, known for offering grants to local governments for public open space, played a key role in this project. The inclusion of Golf Mill Park in OSLAD funding highlights the importance and extensive scale of this renovation.

The grand opening event is free for the public, and no RSVP is necessary. Ice cream and giveaways for children are available while supplies last.