Community Services Department

Director's Notes

From the Desk of J.P. de la Montaigne

Our record breaking Spring Training season is coming to an end and the excitement and plethora of summer activities is only beginning.

First, thank you to all our wonderful volunteers, to those working tirelessly at our libraries, community centers, coaching youth sports and our own Friends of the Library and Peoria Diamond Club.  Again, thanks for your continued great service.

To those looking for something to do this summer, please review the many activities within this, your quarterly brochure.  From swimming lessons for all ages, youth and adult sports leagues, hike one of our trails, visit with us at a recreation center or say hi while at one of our parks.

We believe there is something for everyone.  Take a computer class, read a book, learn a new language (my wife is trying Italian).  Come play in Peoria, come play with us.

Capital Projects

New Branch Library

The countdown has begun for the new branch library and we share in your excitement.  Much has been in the news about the project with its flexible design and our commitment to a larger collection and state-of-the-art customer service.  You will have 22,500 square feet of more books & media, computers and programming space.  Until then, staff at both libraries has been working diligently on creating the best summer ever, with a large line-up of summer reading programs and other family orientated activities to help pass the time before the new branch opens.  By this time next year citizens will be spending their first summer at the new 98^th Ave & Lake Pleasant Parkway location, cooling off with a good book or movie.

Community Center

A study is currently under review to measure the possibility of expanding our downtown community center for expansion of amenities, more room for programming and renovation of a building built in the early 80’s.

Parks

Construction has begun on improvements and renovations to Hayes Park on 75^th Avenue & Mountain View.  The park should be re-opened to the public very soon.

Construction of Westwing Neighborhood Park should commence by the end of this summer and the planned amenities will be outstanding.

Lastly, design plans are beginning for new parks at 91^st Avenue & Grand Avenue and 83^rd Avenue & Olive.

Hope you had a great spring.  Thank you for your support and hope you will spend your summer with us.