District Project Updates

With the busy summer and fall seasons behind us, we’re turning our focus to several exciting new projects that will benefit both our community and local ecosystems. Here’s a look into three of our biggest projects.

Indoor-Outdoor Classroom

A new Indoor-Outdoor Classroom is being constructed in the lower level of the Rock Springs Nature Center thanks to funding from the Park and Recreational Facility Construction Act, or PARC Grant, through the State of Illinois. It will feature:

• Adaptive Classroom Space: With a glass wall that will open to the outside and cohesive flooring that translates from the outside in, the new space will be adaptive and functional for a variety of purposes.
• Water Play Feature: A new, interactive water play feature will be installed near the footbridge, inviting children (and kids at heart) to engage with nature and water in a new way.
• Catering Kitchen and Outdoor Grill: The new space will offer opportunities for new programs, like garden-to-table exploration, as well as rental space for events such as corporate retreats, family reunions, weddings, birthday parties, and more.

Pothole Prairie Restoration

The Pothole Prairie Restoration project will allow us to install and maintain a unique ecosystem on acreage recently required at Fort Daniel Conservation Area. A pothole prairie is a habitat characterized by many small, shallow wetlands surrounded by prairie.
This project features:

• Native Plant Restoration: Reintroducing native flora will promote biodiversity, improve soil health, and provide crucial habitat for local wildlife.
• Community Engagement: Enhanced trails and access points connecting to Fort Daniel will create new opportunities for nature programs, volunteer activities, and community events, fostering a stronger connection to the land.
• Interpretive Signage: Educational signs will inform visitors about local ecosystems, the history of the prairie, and ongoing conservation efforts.

Scovill Bike Trail Connection

The Scovill Bike Trail Connection project aims to enhance trail connectivity and accessibility for cyclists and pedestrians by bridging the gap between the Rock-Springs Fairview Bike Trail and the Decatur Park District’s newly upgraded trail system at Scovill Park West:

• Trail Expansion: This connection will allow movement between the Rock Springs-Fairview Bike Trail and Scovill Park West, adding approx. 1 mile to the approx. 23 miles of accessible bike trail throughout Macon County.
• Trail Enhancements: New signage and pavement improvements will enhance the user experience, making it easier to access and enjoy Rock Springs Conservation Area.
• Community Involvement: We encourage residents to explore these new connections and engage in a more active lifestyle, deepening their connection to the environment.

We’re excited to see these projects come to life and look forward to the positive impact they’ll have on the District, our community, and Macon County.

by Jerry Culp