ROCKFORD, Ill. (WREX) — Rockford has begun a new chapter with the redevelopment of Davis Park, transforming it into a vibrant community hub in the heart of downtown.

The City of Rockford recently broke ground on the long-awaited project, which includes a universally accessible playground, skate park, performance stage, and a new Riverwalk. Additional features such as a concessions and restroom building, Rock River shoreline enhancements, and public art displays are also part of the plan.

Davis Park, the only municipally owned park in Rockford, was donated in 1989 by the Morris and Roberta Davis Trust. Previous redevelopment plans in 1990, 1996, and 2016 failed to gain traction, but a task force led by Go Rockford in 2018 has now brought the project to fruition.

Mayor Tom McNamara emphas

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