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SpaceNet Returns to Engstrom Park

The SpaceNet has landed! The Batavia Parks Foundation successfully raised the funds to purchase the playground apparatus for Engstrom Park. The new equipment was recently installed at the park, 326 Millview Drive, and the community is invited to celebrate at a ribbon cutting ceremony on Thursday, June 3 at 5:30 p.m.

The SpaceNet was a popular attraction at Engstrom Park in the 80s and 90s. It’s a three-dimensional playground apparatus designed to encourage interactive play. The structure had to be removed in the late 1990s after it was vandalized beyond repair.

When the Batavia Parks Foundation formed in 2005, Batavia resident and business owner Craig Foltos approached the Foundation and suggested they try to raise funds to bring the SpaceNet back to Engstrom Park. “People talked about the SpaceNet all the time, and it was rare not to see kids playing on it,” said Foltos, “I have people tell me all the time how they remember playing on it. I think it’s a great thing for kids of all ages.”

The Parks Foundation agreed and set out to raise the necessary funds to return the SpaceNet to its home. “Fundraising has gone well over the past few years, and the Foundation is pleased to see the SpaceNet returned to Engstrom Park,” said Dan Brace, Parks Foundation Chairman.

If you’re interested in making a charitable contribution to help cover the cost of the SpaceNet installation, please do so by sending a check payable to the Batavia Parks Foundation to 327 W. Wilson St., Batavia, IL 60510.

The Batavia Parks Foundation is a 501(c)3 organization dedicated to improving and expanding Batavia’s parks and green spaces. Founded by civic and business leaders in February 2003 and incorporated by the state in 2005, the Foundation bridges the gap between public resources and the need of a vibrant parks system. The mission of the Foundation is to advocate stewardship for open space, parks, facilities and recreation programs.

For more information about the Batavia Parks Foundation please call the Batavia Park District at 630.879.5235 or visit www.bataviaparks.org.

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