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PHASE 1: REMOVAL OF OUTDATED STRUCTURES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 were unsightly, unsafe, beyond restoration, and/or were 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 were removed for immediate aesthetic and safety improvements, and to allow for development towards the goals set in the Round Barn Master Plan.
Status: Completed
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 was in deteriorating condition and caused unnecessary concerns for public safety and stormwater run-off, and was a significant eyesore to the property. The concrete was removed, and the area was graded and seeded.
Status: Completed
PHASE 3: BEAUTIFICATION & LANDSCAPING
Status: On-going
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 allows for easier access to the entire property, enhanced user experience, and extension of future trail connections.
Status: Trail and bike repair station installation is complete. Interpretive signage will be installed in Spring 2025.
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 more than $1,750,000, funding has been the number one hurdle in achieving this goal. An Illinois State Capital Fund Grant of $450,000 was awarded to the district in July of 2024, and Alternate Revenue Bonds will be issued in April 2025 to fund the Round Barn Restoration. Restoration will include new windows and doors, new foundation, repairing and replacing wood siding, exterior painting, and emergency exits.
Status: Restoration will begin Spring 2025
PHASE 6: ROUND BARN INTERIOR IMPROVEMENTS
Status: Anticipated start date in Spring 2026