Community Impact of Parks and Recreational Programs

A well-developed park system is integral to enhancing public health, increasing property values, and stimulating residential growth through inclusive programming for all age groups. Access to green spaces encourages physical activity, reduces stress, and improves mental well-being, contributing to healthier communities.  Studies have shown that urban parks can mitigate health risks associated with urban environments, such as heat-related illnesses and air pollution.

Proximity to parks has been linked to increased property values, with homes near well-maintained green spaces often experiencing value boosts of up to 20%. Additionally, parks that offer diverse programs for all age groups foster community engagement and attract families seeking vibrant, active neighborhoods.

Village Park 

Nestled in the heart of Winthrop Harbor, Village Park has long served as a central hub for community gatherings, recreation, and local events. With its prime location, open green space, and proximity to neighborhoods, schools, and Lake Michigan, the park holds a special place in the hearts of residents and visitors alike.

Now, we're embarking on an exciting redevelopment initiative to transform Village Park into a modern, inclusive, and vibrant destination that reflects the spirit and future of our community. This revitalization will include upgraded recreational facilities, improved landscaping, accessible pathways, enhanced lighting, new playgrounds, and spaces designed for year-round events and activities.

Park Vision Plan for Village Park

Short-Term Goals 

1. Enhance Park Facilities:

   • Upgrade playgrounds and existing tennis courts:

Efforts by State Representative Joyce Mason have resulted in the Village of WH receiving $200,000 in grant funding for improvements to Village Park. This funding will specifically be used to renovate the existing tennis courts and add a new toddler playground area.

The current double tennis courts, originally constructed in the early 2000s, will be transformed into a single tennis court on one side and four permanent pickleball courts on the other. The pickleball courts will include permanent netting and fencing for added convenience and ease of use—making this a valuable upgrade to the park.

Additionally, a new toddler playground area will be installed east of the outdoor washroom building and just south of the gazebo near the pond. By relocating the playground to this part of the park, families with young children will have a designated space to play, along with easier access to restroom facilities.

These exciting improvements are expected to begin in late spring or early summer of 2025.

2. Enhance Park Maintenance and Landscaping:

1. • Plant more native trees and shrubs:

The addition of more shaded areas was a key topic discussed during committee meetings, identified as an important element to incorporate into future park plans. Planting additional trees not only provides natural shade but also helps mitigate potential flooding within the park.

At the end of 2024, WH Parks & Rec applied for a tree grant program offered by Lake County and was awarded 30 new trees to be planted in 2025. The timing of the grant was ideal, as some of these trees will be planted alongside the new toddler playground project site.

Other planting locations include areas where dead trees are being replaced, as well as targeted spots near parking lots, walking paths, and existing amenities to enhance shade coverage and improve water management.

3. Foster Partnerships and Community Involvement:

• Expand volunteer programs to include opportunities for local residents to assist with park maintenance and beautification efforts, such as community-built projects. Additionally, introduce corporate and family sponsorship opportunities to support park enhancements and promote community involvement. 

Long-Term Goals 

1. Create Multi-Use Trails and Connectivity:

   • Enhance connected trail system within Village Park

Addition of new paved walk paths that connect existing walk paths to all areas of the park, including shelters, washrooms, and play areas.

2. Expanding Park Facilities:

   • Addition of existing washroom/maintenance building

An expanded Concession Building with facilities for families and visitors alike to enjoy larger social gatherings in a wide, natural landscape adjacent to the new playgrounds, and an open-air performance venue/bandshell for community events, such as music festivals, family programming, and visitor/tourist attractions during the warmer months.

2. • Upgrade current playground equipment

The current playground equipment at Village Park is reaching its life expectancy, and plans will be implemented on replacing this equipment with modern, safe, and inclusive designs that cater to children of all abilities.

Help Build the New Tot Lot — A Legacy of Play for All Ages

The Village Park Revitalization begins with a cornerstone feature: the new Tot Lot, a safe, inclusive, and engaging play space designed especially for toddlers and young children. But this isn’t just about early childhood—it’s about creating a family-friendly environment that supports active play and exploration for all age groups.

From toddlers to teens, and parents to grandparents, we envision a vibrant gathering space where families can grow, connect, and play together. This project includes accessible playground equipment, shaded seating, interactive learning features, and programming designed to foster movement, creativity, and social development across generations.

This Tot Lot will be built by the community—for the community, with support from local families, businesses, and organizations who believe in the power of parks to shape healthier, happier lives.

Tot Lot Sponsorship Opportunities

Be part of creating a safe, inclusive, and engaging play space at the heart of Village Park. Your sponsorship helps fund equipment, accessibility, and programming for children of all ages—building a space where the community can grow, connect, and thrive together.

  Premier Diamond Sponsor – $10,000+

• Top-tier recognition with your name or logo featured at the Tot Lot entrance on a standalone sign

• Lead placement on the shared permanent donor plaque

• Recognition in all major press releases, newsletters, and community updates

• Social media spotlight and custom thank-you post

• Parks Partner Recognition on the Parks and Recs website and all major events  

• Framed Certificate of Appreciation

• Tax-deductible contribution (where applicable)

Legacy Sponsor – $5,000+

• Top-tier recognition with your name or logo featured at the Tot Lot entrance on a standalone sign

• Lead placement on the shared permanent donor plaque

• Recognition in all major press releases, newsletters, and community updates

• Social media spotlight and custom thank-you post

• Parks Partner Recognition on the Parks and Recs website and all major events 

• Invitation and recognition at the ribbon-cutting event

• Framed Certificate of Appreciation

• Tax-deductible contribution (where applicable)

Community Champion – $2,500

• Prominent logo on the shared Tot Lot recognition plaque

• Acknowledgment in digital communications, including website, newsletters, and social media

• Certificate of Appreciation

• Charitable tax receipt

Neighborhood Advocate – $1,000

• Small logo on the shared recognition plaque

• Recognition in digital updates and community thank-you post

• Certificate of Appreciation

• Charitable tax receipt

Playground Partner – $500

• Name (text-only) listed on the Community Supporter section of the plaque

• Recognition on the Tot Lot webpage

• Certificate of Appreciation

• Charitable tax receipt

Friend of the Tot Lot – $250

• Name listed on the project webpage and at community build event signage

• Digital thank-you note and printable Certificate of Appreciation

Family & Individual Sponsor – $100

• Name included in a dedicated “Families Who Gave” section online

• Commemorative digital supporter badge

In-Kind Donations & Custom Sponsorships

Have a special way to give? We welcome in-kind contributions (materials, services, volunteer hours) and custom sponsorships tailored to your interests. Every act of generosity brings this space closer to reality.