Glencoe Park District on July 21 voted 4-1 to accept a $1 million donation from local businessman Andrew Berlin to rehab Central Park at 692 Greenwood Avenue. According to the Chicago Tribune, the park will be re-named after Berlin’s father Melvin, who was a park commissioner in the 1970’s.
Prior to this decision, park district officials and residents debated whether an outfield fence should be erected in the park’s baseball field. While supporters saw the fence as a way to allow players to experience a home run, neighbors raised concerns about lower property values and aesthetics.
A portion of the 3 to 4 foot high fence will be semi-permanent and removed after the baseball season ends in July. Temporary fencing will also be erected in the center and right field on an as needed basis for games.