Evanston Receives $400,000 State Grant for Lakefront Lagoon
Illinois Governor Pat Quinn announced on June 23 that the City of Evanston has been awarded $400,000 to renovate the 4.5 acre lagoon located in Dawes Park. The project includes upgrades to plumbing and basin systems, reconstruction of the stone waterfall, replacement of pavement and lighting, new site furnishings and enhanced landscaping. This award was part of $12.3 million of Open Space Lands Acquisition and Development Grants projects awarded to 42 projects around Illinois. This grant, combined with a $500,000 donation last year from the Arrington Foundation, allows this important project to move forward.
With the completion of the project, the lagoon will be renamed the Arrington Lakefront Lagoon in memory of the late W. Russell Arrington. A distinguished member of the Illinois General Assembly from 1945 to 1973, W. Russell Arrington was a member of the Illinois House and leader of the Illinois Senate.
City of Evanston Mayor Elizabeth Tisdahl said, “My thanks to Governor Quinn for his support of this outstanding project. Through the efforts of State Senator Jeff Schoenberg, State Representative Robyn Gabel and staff from our Department of Parks, Recreation and Community Services, the residents of Evanston will now enjoy a revitalized lakefront lagoon that will serve as a peaceful respite for all of us for many years to come.” Tisdahl added, “It is fitting that the remaining funding for this project comes from the State of Illinois as we recognize W. Russell Arrington’s distinguished service in the General Assembly by naming the lagoon in his honor.”
Dawes Park is located at Sheridan Road at Church Street. For further details on the Arrington Donation, click here.