A ribbon-cutting ceremony officially opened the remodeled Cummings Square Campus, part of the Forest Preserves of Cook County's headquarters.
Forest Preserves of Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle and General Superintendent Arnold Randall were joined by Cook County Commissioner Peter Silvestri to celebrate the remodeled facilities.
“The Forest Preserves’ General Headquarters and Cummings Square Campus offer residents a beautiful introduction to the Forest Preserves of Cook County," Silvestri said. “Not only can visitors purchase permits to enjoy family gatherings and picnics in the Preserves at Cummings Square, they can enjoy a variety of programming here or head to the nearby Nature Center or Thatcher Woods.”
The remodel added an elevator, updated wayfinding signs and paving to make the campus more accessible and convenient for visitors. The new entrance and lobby provide access to the permits, rentals and concessions area.
“For years, people have come to this building to purchase their picnic permits or enjoy the open space,” Randall said. “The improvements to the building and Cummings Square reflect the Forest Preserves’ efforts as part of our Next Century Conservation Plan to be more inclusive of diverse visitors of all abilities.”
The campus features a band shell, sports fields, picnic tables and a nature sanctuary. The Forest Preserves "central zone" also includes Thatcher Woods and the Trailside Museum of Natural History.
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