Location: 922 W. Fletcher St.
Chicago, IL 60657
Supervisor: Michelle Baldwin (Sheil Park)
Phone Numbers: Main (312) 742-7826
Features: Playground
Description
This tiny park contains a playground and sandbox. It is located in the Lakeview neighborhood (one block south of Belmont, 1/2 block east of Sheffield Avenue). While there is no structured programming taking place at this location, we invite you to check out our great programs offered at nearby at Sheil Park.
History
The Chicago Park District acquired this park in the mid-1970s, through a property exchange with the Jewel Foods Corporation, which sought to build a grocery store on a playlot located on the next block. The Park District soon developed a plan, and improved the site with attractive border plantings and a playground that included a “trailblazer slide;” three “Rodeo Rockies;” and a “Castle Climber.” In the spring of 1990, the park was upgraded with new plantings, ornamental iron fencing, and a soft surface playground featuring a redwood play structure. Later that year, the park was officially named in honor of Johnny Martin, a four-year veteran of the Chicago Police Department slain in the line of duty. Known for his dedication to the youth of the community, Martin spent many off-duty hours with area teens, providing an alternative to gang activity.