GOALS & VISION
As a result of the 2019 Master Plan and Community Needs Assessment, Manhattan Park District has been working on a multi-phase plan to make improvements to Round Barn Farm Park, including the restoration of the historic 100-ft Baker-Koren Round Barn. The goals of this project are multifaceted and include improving public safety, beautification and enhancing the aesthetics of the park, improving the user experience, and positioning the District for the ultimate restoration of the Round Barn.
2024 will see several planned improvements, completed in phases throughout the year:
PHASE 1: REMOVAL OF OUTDATED STRUCTURES
Several existing structures have become unsightly, unsafe, beyond restoration, and/or are not part of the overall Master Plan for Round Barn Farm Park. Several three-sided barns and the remnants of the 60-foot 10-sided barn will be removed for immediate aesthetic and safety improvements, and allow for development towards the goals set in the Round Barn Master Plan. The highlighted areas in yellow show which structures will be removed.
Estimated Completion: Winter 2024
PHASE 2: REMOVAL OF CONCRETE
Over the years, several different uses of the property have resulted in a large amount of concrete being poured. The concrete is in deteriorating condition and provides unnecessary concerns for public safety and stormwater run-off, and is a significant eyesore to the property. Areas shaded in gray above show areas of concrete removal.
Estimated Completion: Winter 2024
PHASE 3: BEAUTIFICATION & LANDSCAPING
Estimated Commencement: Spring-Fall 2024
PHASE 4: TRAIL IMPROVEMENTS
Recreational trails were identified as a priority to the community in the 2019 Needs Assessment and District Master Plan. MPD won a $200,000 federally funded RTP Grant through the State of Illinois for the development of nearly one mile of new trails throughout Round Barn Farm Park. The expansion of trails will allow for easier access to the entire property, enhanced user experience, and extension of future trail connections.
Estimated Completion: Spring-Fall 2024
PHASE 5: BARN RESTORATION
The restoration of the 100' Round Barn has been and remains a top priority of the Park District. However, at a current total cost of nearly $1,750,000, funding has been the number one hurdle of achieving this goal. The district has applied for several grants as recently as the Fall of 2023 (waiting on notification) to assist with the financial burden. Once funds are secured, restoration will begin as quickly as possible.
TBD Pending Funding