I would like to give you some information on the soccer field that is under construction in Lincoln Park and clarify some points about the project. 

The soccer field is just that, a field, not a stadium as it has been called.  You can see a very similar example in Lincoln Park at Montrose. There are no bleachers, only benches for the players will be installed around the field.  A fence will be installed on one side to prevent  balls from rolling into the zoo parking lot.

This field is not for the exclusive use of any group or organization.  It is a park district facility  where permits will be issued to schools and private sports clubs like AYSO, Little League and the Chicago Sport & Social Club.  When this or any other park district recreation area is not being used by a group that has purchased a permit, it is open to anyone who wishes to use it. 

A more elaborate project with a running track was proposed for this area several years ago.  While that project elicited some resistance, it had support from the running community and soccer parents and coaches from numerous schools including Lincoln Park High School.  The meetings we had on that project were usually evenly split between supporters and opponents.  That project was sidelined when the Park District and the Board of Education did not have funding for their share of the costs which they were going to split 3-ways with the Latin School. 

I believe that this is a legitimate recreational use and an improvement for this area of Lincoln Park.  I have requested that in the future, the Park District notify me and the park groups in writing of any proposed projects.  I hope that notifying us in writing will help avoid confusion in the future.  I encourage anyone who is interested in park issues to join and participate in the park organizations.  These are active groups of dedicated volunteers that help maintain a balance of interests and oversight on park district matters.

If you have any questions on this or any other matter please do not hesitate to contact my office.