The Veterans Park Expansion Project consists of four blocks in the heart of Elgin’s Historic District, converting undeveloped city owned vacant lots into modern, accessible, vibrant parkland. Asphalt lots will be transformed to a playground and gathering spaces surrounded by native plantings and natural shade elements.

This project focuses on creating a central point for the Elgin community, bridging a historically segregated area, beginning with breaking ground on Block A in 2023. The elements throughout the four blocks were selected from the Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Master Plan, written in conjunction with feedback from the community and partner organizations such as the Advocacy Outreach, VFW, and Down Home Ranch. Public input was collected over 18 months in English and Spanish, via in person opportunities at parks and public events, online opportunities and visits to local community hubs.



A new, engaging park provides a central location for the Parks & Recreation Department and community organizations to activate the park with events, programs, classes and more. The Hogeye Festival, Elgin Farmer’s Market, and Juneteenth Festival all use the existing Veterans Park as the backdrop of their events. By providing new amenities, more space, and high-quality parkland, these events will grow and evolve to draw in Elgin’s residents, new and old, to celebrate life in Elgin.