The Freeport Park District announces the Krape Park South Entrance Improvement Project, a planned investment to enhance safety, accessibility, and the overall visitor experience at one of the District’s most visited parks.

Krape Park receives more visitors than any other park in the Freeport Park District. Currently, the south entrance is limited to a single lane and frequently experiences traffic congestion during peak visitation times. These conditions can create delays for park users and challenges for safe traffic flow.

In addition, the north entrance bridge has a weight restriction that prevents many emergency vehicles and school buses from crossing. Improving and expanding access at the south entrance will help ensure emergency responders, school groups, and families can enter the park quickly and safely, especially during high-use periods.

The project also addresses potentially hazardous trees located along the south entrance corridor. These trees have begun to damage the roadway, increasing maintenance costs and creating ongoing safety concerns. Planned improvements will allow the Park District to address these issues proactively and sustainably.

In January, the Freeport Park Board of Commissioners will meet with the intent of the Park District to issue a bond pursuant to the requirements of the Bond Issue Notification Act (30 ILCS 352/5) to support this important infrastructure project.

Pending approvals, construction is anticipated to begin April of 2026 and be complete by Fall of 2026. A reminder that vehicles that surpass the north entrance bridge weight restriction should utilize Woodside Drive to enter and exit Krape Park.

The Freeport Park District is committed to maintaining safe, welcoming, and accessible parks for all visitors, and these improvements are a key step toward enhancing the long-term enjoyment and functionality of Krape Park.