2018 OP Summer Newsletter

NATURE CENTER UPDATE

NEXT STEP The next step as the Village moves forward to a fully operational Nature Center will be the restoration of the existing building on the site. Soon the Village will issue an RFP (request for proposals) to secure the services of an Architect to finalize plans for the building’s rehabilitation. The building is anticipated to serve small public groups and Village staff for projects, workshops, and other educational and recreational activities as well as storage of materials for activities and maintenance of the grounds. HOW CAN I HELP? This year, the community is initiating a fund-raising campaign for this exciting project. We are asking for your support to consider becoming an Orland Park Nature Center sponsor. As a sponsor, you will help us transform the Nature Center into a unique community space that provides indoor and outdoor learning opportunities, educational exhibits, green infrastructure, and restored native plant and wildlife communities. Additionally, your contribution will be tax deductible, as the Orland Park Open Lands Corporation is a 501(c) (3) organization. If you are interested in becoming an Orland Park Nature Center Sponsor, please don’t hesitate to contact Jane Turley, staff liaison with the Village’s Development Services Department 708/403-5300. Your investment in Orland Park’s Nature Center will impact our community for generations to come!

• 2012-2014: The site was cleaned up and prepared for restoration. • 2013: A Conceptual Master Plan completed. • 2016: A Final Master Plan and Construction Plans were completed. • 2017: The Gianakas family donated the 24 acre site to the north. • 2018: Site improvements are currently under construction.

HISTORY In April 2012, the village’s Open Lands Corporation purchased the three acre site just north of Orland Park’s downtown with the vision to restore and preserve the land, and to convert the existing building and site to a nature center. When complete, the Orland Park Nature Center will provide the public opportunities to experience and learn about the natural environment. Since the purchase the following has been accomplished:

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WWW.ORLANDPARK.ORG | SUMMER 2018 |