Parks and Recreation

The end of May sees the celebration of Memorial Day, the last days of the school year and, for parents and families, the start of the swimming season. A new partnership from the City of Bloomington aims to educate the public on water safety before diving headfirst into the pool.

There will be no movement on E-scooter regulations in the Town of Normal in the immediate future.

The City of Bloomington is getting a $600,000 state grant to build a green infrastructure park near to the community sewage treatment plant on the west side of town. It's the Sunnyside Park Sustainability Initiative.

Sunday's Euchre tournament at The Bistro raises funds for downtown Bloomington's upcoming Pridefest. And it's Parks and Recreation month—so get out there!

O’Neil Aquatics Center has been under construction for years, but the facility is finally opening. Starting Saturday, community members can dip their toes into the new pools and splash pad — just in time for summer.

Included in the proposed new $223 million budget for the Town of Normal is the hiring of six new positions. Mayor Chris Koos said they all relate to services delivered by the town.

A centerpiece of Bloomington's Miller Park Zoo needs a facelift. The zoo plans to restore its 22-year-old carousel.

Heyworth's Centennial Park is receiving $64,700 towards park and playground improvements.

The Town of Normal is working with Wight & Company to begin the planning and has already gathered input from the community. About 30 community members attended a meeting Tuesday night to provide ideas and concerns as the planning process begins.

One of the oldest zoos in the country will commemorate its decades-long effort to saving animals on Saturday. The Miller Park Zoo has continued to operate through two pandemics, multiple wars, a depression, and many recessions.