Year of the Park

This unassuming park in Urbana is hidden next to two cemeteries and has an interesting and compelling history. 

Homer Lake sits just a dozen miles the east of the cities of Champaign-Urbana, and has become one of the most cherished spots to enjoy nature for miles around. 

Here is a shining example of what an urban park can be, and how preservation and time make for incredible spaces to enjoy a city. And don't pass by the chance to click the link in the post to read a wonderful article about some recent history of the park, and its namesake family, written by celebrated local reporter Julie Wurth. 

This park is not really a park any longer as much as it is a gateway to one of the more magnificent “park” projects the City of Champaign took on and completed in the past few decades. Still though, it is a park by taxing body standards, and we are gonna assess it as we do! 

This 5.25 acre park on the corner of Neil and Bradley in Champaign was named for Hazel Iungerich, who spent thirty years on the Champaign Park District Board. It's got plenty to enjoy, if you choose to make the trek to be there. 

These dog parks simply don't cut it for this community. We owe more to the people who pay taxes, and goddamnit, we owe more to our four legged friends, no matter how idiotic they are. 

Centennial Park in west Champaign encompasses a massive 70 acre piece of land, and for good reason. Inside of its borders we have a children's petting zoo, a badass public pool, the Leonard Recreation Center, Cannonball Hill, a great playground for kids to get dirty, and so much more. 

A truly great park in the north part of Urbana, King has been developing neighborhood events and grade school friendships since 1967. Plus, a tremendous sculpture, walking paths, a playground, and an open field that is ripe for some goal posts and a few ten yard gains. 

This tiny park in the heart of North Champaign just celebrated fifty years and has basketball courts and a nice little walking path named in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.