In 2005, the Paul Barker Trust donated 26 acres to the Franklin Park neighborhood for the development of a park. After considerable discussion, park development is beginning to move forward in phases. In 2014, Friends of Barker Park was founded to assist with identifying funds to supplement park district financing. Other assistance will be provided as needs arise. Park development includes a pavilion/picnic shelter, playground equipment, benches, a half high school basketball court, and the planting of trees/shrubs/flowers. A walking trail will be included, and hopefully a bike path to connect with 11th St. and the UIS paths. In the future, there are plans to include a dog park in one section of Barker Park. To learn more information about the neighborhood, you may visit www.fpnaspfld.com. Betty Dodson is a contact person for information about the park, and can be reached at bdodson5@gmail.com. Donations to help fund the development of this park are greatly appreciated.
Visit Barker Park's page.