The Oak Lawn Park District is excited to announce that Phase I of the Wolfe Wildlife Rejuvenation Project is currently underway. The first phase of the project is partially funded thanks to a successful Open Space Land Acquisition and Development (OSLAD) grant worth $600,000. The project includes six new pickleball courts, exercise equipment, game tables, along with path and light pole replacements.
Wolfe Wildlife Refuge, located at 109th & Laramie Ave., is a 45-acre natural wetland area that is home to over 100 species of birds, along with frogs, turtles, ducks, raccoons, foxes, and butterflies. There is a full playground, walking path, splash pad, and is home to the annual Howl-O-Ween event in October. The portion of the rejuvenation project that begins this year includes the following:
- Bridge Decking Replacement
- Six (6) New Pickleball Courts
- Game Tables
- Split Rail Fence Replacement
- Exercise Equipment Installation
- Overlook Replacement
- Trail Sitting Location
- Nature Restoration
- Select Path & Light Pole Replacement
Work will begin on Phase II of the project starting next summer. Phase II work includes replacing the remaining path and light poles. This part of the project is being funded thanks to another successful grant application from the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) as part of the Illinois Transportation Enhancement Program (ITEP) worth $1.67 million.
“As one of our most popular parks, we are excited to see it get some much-needed improvements and exciting new amenities for the public to enjoy,” said Tom Hartwig, executive director. “What’s even more exciting is how much project is being funded through successful grants we have applied for.”
