Galesburg opens $1.35 million accessible park at former school site

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On August 26, Galesburg officials, including Mayor Peter Schwartzman and State Senator Mike Halpin, held a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new $1.352 million Cooke Park. The project transformed the site of a former elementary school—which closed in 2014—into an accessible recreational space featuring an inclusive playground, splash pad, and walking paths. The initiative was spearheaded by local resident Gayla Pacheco following community feedback gathered during the 2021-2022 Heart & Soul planning process regarding a need for free recreational amenities on the city’s southwest side.

Consequences

The new park is expected to serve as a hub for community integration by drawing residents from different neighborhoods together. City officials intend for the site to function as a long-term recreational asset, replacing the former school property with inclusive infrastructure designed to accommodate a diverse range of residents.

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