Effingham planners weigh new parks, skate‑park upgrade and tourism strategy as assets for growth

City and civic leaders at an Effingham comprehensive‑plan focus group outlined parks, youth activities and tourism as interconnected pieces of economic and community development.

Hillary of the Park District listed near‑term projects: replace Evergreen Park—playground, begin phase two of the skate park with a move to a 100% concrete surface, add permanent pickleball lines in the Ron Deal Center gym and consider adding a pond at Evergreen Park. The district said Kluthy Pool is at a decision point: continue spending to update pumps and systems, replace it with a free splash pad for universal access, or build a larger facility with slides and a lazy river to draw visitors.

Park and community leaders stressed accessibility and inclusion when discussing neighborhood parks and playgrounds. One attendee said some facilities labeled "inclusive" are not actually accessible to children with mobility needs and offered to help the district plan truly accessible designs.

Tourism staff described Effingham as a stopover and destination hub anchored by 17 hotels, a 1,500‑seat performance center and a suite of downtown events. Tourism grants and a visitor guide were credited for bringing new events and helping organizers cover insurance and event costs. "We are 100% a tourism destination," said a tourism representative, noting stopover traffic from I‑57 and I‑70 and a mix of restaurants and amenities that support overnight stays.

Speakers also debated how tourism dollars and city budgeting interact with larger redevelopment opportunities such as a mall project or a dome/showcase venue. Tourism staff cautioned that hotel‑motel grant money is restricted to eligible tourism expenses, so any support must meet statutory requirements. The city steering committee will combine these project ideas with facility, housing and workforce themes as it drafts plan recommendations.