EDISON PARK — There are two new playgrounds on the Northwest Side for kids to explore before the winter chill sets in.
Chicago Park District officials, joined by Amy Rule, Mayor Rahm Emanuel's wife, celebrated the opening of the two parks Thursday, which were renovated through the Chicago Park District's Chicago Plays program.
“Playgrounds are important community places that provide children, families and neighbors with safe spaces to gather and play, which is why the mayor is investing in playgrounds in neighborhoods across the City,” Rule said in a statement. “I have no doubt that these refurbished playgrounds will serve as community hubs for years to come.”
Grandparents Playlot Park, 5445 N. Chester St., which is near O'Hare Airport, is a 1.5-acre park has a gazebo and a playground, and got its name from its most frequent visitors — grandparents and their visiting grandchildren.
Brooks Park, 7100 N. Harlem Ave., is named after former Edison Park park district President Oscar E. Brooks, who served as an Edison Park village trustee for five years before becoming a park board member in 1920, according to the Chicago Park District's website.
Both are in the 41st Ward, where all of the playgrounds will have new equipment and play surfaces by the end of 2016, said Ald. Mary O'Connor.
"Chicago is only as strong as its neighborhoods," O'Connor said. "Investments in our parks and playgrounds help to ensure that every child in every neighborhood has a place to play and where they can foster new friendships for years to come."
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