Land near the downtown business district in Antioch that had been vacant and blighted for years is under construction to become a park and set to open this summer. | Provided Photo

Village officials say they are seeking input from residents on naming Antioch’s “newest and most visible” downtown park as construction nears completion.

Antioch Mayor Scott Gartner on Friday announced a community-driven park naming for the park, which has been the subject of years of planning and construction.

The initiative, spearheaded by the Antioch Village Board and the Antioch Parks Commission, invites residents to submit suggestions for the park’s new name.

The park will be located on the north end of the downtown Antioch business district and will serve as a hub for recreational activities, family gatherings and community events.

Land near the downtown business district in Antioch that had been vacant and blighted for years is under construction to become a park and set to open this summer. | Provided Photo

Gartner emphasized the importance of involving residents in the naming process.

“Our parks are central to the fabric of our community, and itโ€™s important that our village residents have a voice in shaping this parkโ€™s permanent identity,” Gartner said.

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“This naming process is an opportunity for every member of our village to contribute and leave a lasting legacy for future Antioch generations,” Gartner added.

Antioch Assistant Village Administrator Jim Moran said residents are encouraged to participate by submitting their suggestions through an online submission platform. Submissions will be accepted until April 7.

Participants are asked to include a brief statement justifying the chosen name taking into consideration factors such as geographical location, historical significance and connection to the community.

Land near the downtown business district in Antioch that had been vacant and blighted for years is under construction to become a park and set to open this summer. | Provided Photo

The top five names that best meet the established criteria will be shortlisted by the Antioch Parks Commission for further consideration, Moran said.

Residents will have the opportunity to vote on their choice of the final names.

The top choices, including the name that receives the top vote, will be presented to the village board for final approval later this spring.

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Moran described the park as the village’s “newest and most visible park” and said construction is expected to be completed this summer.

The park will have a splash pad, an accessible playground, a public performance space featuring a gazebo and a concession area with bathrooms. The park will be centered around a re-exposed Sequoit Creek.