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Villa Park board designates Julia Drive parcel a natural park to protect floodplain open space
Summary
Trustees approved a resolution to designate village property along Julia Drive (parcel 06‑15‑118‑019) as a natural park; staff said the move protects floodplain land, enables public input and could unlock certain grants for restoration.
The Village of Villa Park on Dec. 8 voted to designate a green parcel along Julia Drive and Villa Avenue (parcel number 06‑15‑118‑019) as a natural park, a step staff said will protect the land and allow future planning and public input.
Manager Rivas and the parks director told the board the parcel sits in a floodway and that designation as a natural park would not necessarily create a playground but would preserve open space, allow installation of native pollinator plantings and support pathways. Staff said the designation is an initial step; any development or restoration would require engineering review, public input and later board approval.
Trustee Kumar asked about cost implications and whether grants would be available; parks staff said open‑space and stormwater grants exist and that the designation could make the site eligible for funding. Trustee Constatos said the primary goal is protection rather than immediate investment.
The resolution passed on roll call. Staff said next steps include engineering or landscape architectural study, public outreach and then a staff recommendation to the board for any specific improvements or funding requests.
