Friendship Park

Eriksson Engineering Associates, Ltd. (EEA) provided civil engineering and landscape architecture services for the multi-phased redevelopment of the Mt. Prospect Park District’s Friendship Park, a heavily utilized community destination serving residents of all ages and abilities. The project enhanced recreational amenities, improved accessibility, provided stormwater management, and preserved the site’s natural character through thoughtful planning and design.

Phase 1 included a comprehensive revitalization of the park grounds, featuring replacement of much of the existing pathway network and western parking lot, construction of new pickleball courts, improvements to existing tennis courts, and installation of a variety of recreational amenities. Accessibility was a key project objective, with enhancements designed to improve usability for all patrons. A new outdoor fitness area was carefully planned with equipment promoting strength, balance, and mobility, while new canopy trees were added along perimeter pathways to enhance comfort and the overall user experience.

Phase 2 focused on improvements to the conservatory complex, including interior renovations and construction of a new 40’ x 44’ rental shelter. Complementary site enhancements included a public plaza and garden featuring decorative concrete paving and raised planters maintained through the Park District’s greenhouse program. Traffic, pavement, and infrastructure improvements were also completed to support expanded park patron use.

The project required innovative solutions to address stormwater management, zoning, and site constraints. Our team developed cost-effective stormwater improvements, including a native-planted detention basin that satisfied MWRD requirements while preserving environmental and aesthetic resources. The project also required multiple zoning variances, complex phasing strategies, and coordination among numerous stakeholders to maintain grant funding schedules and regulatory compliance