McKinley Park's DIY Skate Park Property Slated for Development as Community Planning Takes Center Stage

By Socialhood News · Il/Chicago/Mckinley Park · October 17, 2025

The popular Marshfield Courts skate park in McKinley Park is set to undergo significant transformation as it joins two other neighborhood sites in the City of Chicago's ChiBlockBuilder program, which offers vacant city lots at affordable prices to inspire development. The property has been earmarked for sale and open space development, creating new opportunities for community use.

Meanwhile, community engagement is flourishing with the announcement of Chicago's Birthday Party planning, which kicks off with a meeting this Saturday, October 18, at St. Andrew Lutheran Church. Several local organizations have already committed to the collaborative effort, including the McKinley Park Civic Association, Omega Delta Youth Baseball & Softball League, and Horizon Science Academy. Last year's celebration brought together dozens of local organizations, schools, elected officials, and residents to celebrate at the geographic center of Chicago.

For families seeking immediate community activities, the McKinley Park Development Council recently announced a mural painting project at the McKinley Community Play Garden. Additionally, the neighborhood will host the McKinley Park Pop Ups on 35th Street, bringing together local businesses, community groups, and artists for a family-friendly celebration. Residents are encouraged to check mckinleypark.news for upcoming events and opportunities to participate in these neighborhood initiatives.

Sources:
1. https://mckinleypark.news/
2. https://mckinleypark.news/about/letter-from-the-editor/7438-help-celebrate-chicagos-birthday-at-our-3rd-annual-party
3. https://www.mpdcchicago.org/news