Commissioners Park in Justice to get face-lift

By Carol McGowan

The Justice Park District broke ground last week on a new playground and re-vamp of Commissioners Park.

For the next four to six weeks, park workers will be installing new playground equipment to replace outdated equipment that’s been there for at least 15 years.

The new and improved playground will be relocated to another area within the park district’s biggest park.  When the new one is complete, the old one will be taken away.

Justice Park Board President Carrie Bernardoni said it’s something she and other commissioners have been working on since being elected.

“We are thrilled to be moving forward with needed capital improvements at Commissioners Park.  We listened to the community and know this project is important to our taxpayers.  I am extremely proud of our dedicated staff and this Board of Commissioners who were determined from day one to meet the needs of the community and move the Justice Park District forward.  This is the beginning. We will continue to revamp and improve programming for all ages.”

The park district received a $75,000 matching grant through GameTime.   Bernardoni said GameTime designs and manufactures dynamic playground equipment that gets everyone active and immersed in fun.

“They work with communities around the world to build inclusive, active, and family-focused play and recreation spaces.”

Commissioner Tabatha Sutera has had this vision along with the other commissioners. “This is a very exciting project to be a part of.  A new park was a project we (as a board) have pushed for, and to see it being built brings a new perspective in what we will be able to bring in the future to the community.”

Executive Director Jennifer Bonbrake started with the Justice Park District in August.  She’s looking forward to new things happening within the parks, and offering more events and programs this spring and summer.

“I am excited to bring this brand-new updated playground to the residents. This is such a wonderful opportunity for myself and the board to give back to the residents of Justice.  I personally would like to thank every commissioner and staff member that has come together alongside me to work hard to provide this to the community.  The residents of Justice now have a park district they deserve.

“Along with the new playground equipment, the Justice Park District will have several new upcoming programs including a Touch A Truck event, June 4. This will be a great collaboration event within the Village of Justice. For more information, please visit our website at www.justiceparkdistrict.com.”