Johnston family gifts six acres to village
Bourbonnais, IL – The Village of Bourbonnais is excited to announce that 6.63 acres of parkland have been graciously donated to the village. Three parcels, adjacent to Riverfront Park with an approximate 600 feet of river frontage, have been contributed by the Johnston family.
The community connection arose as a result of the village’s ‘Imagine Bourbonnais’ planning process, including a public open house, and marketing campaign for Riverfront Park that commenced this time last year.
Due to the significant endowment, the village placed a temporary halt on the ‘Imagine Bourbonnais’ master planning and public engagement process for Riverfront Park. Adding this amount of acreage to the park alters the scope of the project for the public, stated Bourbonnais Mayor, Paul Schore.
“This unique gift from the Johnston family is invaluable,” he explained. “They have been exceptionally supportive and willing to work with the village to make this happen. We couldn’t be more pleased to make this positive announcement to preserve more parkland in the village by working together with our community.”
Riverfront Park is located at the end of Canterbury Lane. It is classified as a premier park and totals 13.18 acres, with an approximate 1,120 feet of river frontage. Riverfront Park is one of two local parks nestled along the Kankakee River. The park contains both active and passive recreational activities while preserving unique landscapes and open spaces for residents and visitors.
“We would like to sincerely thank the Johnston family for their substantial contribution to the village, which benefits our entire community for generations to come,” said Mayor Schore.
“We would also like to recognize and thank Larry Linman, a neighboring property owner, who helped the village connect with the owners and supported this process.”
With the new acreage addition to Riverfront Park, the village will reinstate the ‘Imagine Bourbonnais’ campaign in the near future and continue to welcome residents to participate in the planning process.
The Village of Bourbonnais currently maintains over 100 acres of parkland. 24 local parks provide residents with a myriad of activities ranging from passive to active for all ages. The most recent park opening was the new playground featured at The Grove at Goselin Park. Situated in the 12.5-acre outdoor venue and central gathering space, the modern, ADA-friendly park was welcomed by residents with exceptional reviews.
Find your local village parks and amenities available here.
