Chicago Park District Breaking Ground at Park No. 598 in Near North Community

Groundbreaking ceremony to celebrate the beginning of a $4.7 million investment in new park

CHICAGO - Friday, October 18th at 9:30am, the Chicago Park District will break ground on improvements at Park No. 598, 1514 N. Larrabee. Chicago Park District Chief of Staff Joan Coogan, Vice Mayor and Alderman of the 27th Ward Walter Burnett, State Senator Lakesia Collins and Near North community members will celebrate the $4.7 million investment to the park and broader community.

"The groundbreaking of this new park stands as a testament to what's possible when the city, park district and community residents work together," said 27th Ward Alderman Walter Burnett, Jr. "It will be a place where residents can enjoy the outdoors, meet with neighbors and exercise their dogs in the dog park. I'm excited about this neighborhood improvement project because parks are a vital part of the community, and it proves that when we work together, everyone wins."

Park No. 598 will receive multiple upgrades including but not limited to a new walking path, a playground with engineered wood fiber surfacing, an adult fitness area, new pathways, seating, and lighting. There will also be a new dog-friendly area that will have both concrete and artificial turd surfaces with spaces for both small and large dogs. The dog-friendly area will also feature a drinking fountain.

"This site has a long history on the Near North side community and we're excited to celebrate this significant milestone here at Park No. 598," said Coogan. "This groundbreaking is yet another example of our commitment to providing recreational spaces that meet the needs of the children and families who live in the community and rely on the resources parks provide."

"I am eager to see the transformation of Park No. 598 into a vibrant community space that will serve the Near North Side community of the 5th Senate District. This represents a significant investment for our neighborhood, providing a safe and communal space for families, children, and individuals of all ages to enjoy," said State Senator Collins. "With its new walking paths, playground, adult fitness area, and dog-friendly space, Park 598 will enhance the quality of life for our residents and build a stronger sense of community. I am proud to support this initiative and I look forward to seeing the positive impact it will have on our community."

Park 598 is the site of the former Near North High School outdoor recreation area. Before Near North High School opened in fall 1979, the site was home to Cooley High, where residents of the Cabrini-Green housing projects attended school. The school was officially closed in 2001 and the land became property of the Chicago Housing Authority. In 2019, CHA transferred this 3.8-acre site to the Park District for improvements to be used as a new park to serve the Near North Community.

The total project budget was over $4.7 million and went toward the design and construction of the new park. The Park District worked for months with the Chicago Housing Authority and the community to develop plans for the park design. Construction will be complete by the end of 2025.