Contractors:

Engineered Constructors

Category:

Communications

One of Orland Park’s premier recreation areas, Centennial Park offers numerous sport and leisure activities. Lake Sedgewick is a focal point of the park and is used for boating, fishing and various other activities. In 2000, Orland Park officials realized that erosion, nutrient rich stormwater runoff and sedimentation were all contributing to the lake’s declining water quality. The Village then embarked on a project to improve water quality through site improvements, public outreach and a year of post monitoring.

As part of the project’s second phase, the landscape architect created five educational signs to illustrate the water quality improvements and encourage residents to become stewards of the environment. Placed next to particular site improvements, the signs educate and appeal to both children and adults. In order to make the signs engaging to all, the landscape architect added a bit of whimsy and humor to the text and graphics. One sign titled, "Garden or Weeds?" wonders what proposed new native plants would say if they could talk. The signs also include "Quest" boxes that encourage visitors to interact with their surroundings through short activities.

Since Centennial Park is such a popular spot, many community members enjoy and learn from the educational signage. Not only do the signs educate the public about steps the village has taken to improve the lake’s water quality, they also suggest ways visitors can help improve water quality in Lake Sedgewick and other waterways. The signs are informative and empowering and in the years ahead will impact Orland Park’s environment.