First responders and village employees held a grand reopening of a park in Algonquin that has been named in honor of a police officer who died in the line of duty.
The Village of Algonquin hosted a grand reopening of Holder Park, located at 1040 Timberwood Lane, on Monday morning.
Village officials said the reopening highlights ongoing efforts to improve the quality of life for residents through enhanced recreational facilities.
The latest upgrades to Holder Park feature brand-new playground equipment, a refurbished baseball backstop and fencing and an updated basketball court.
The playground, last renovated in 1999, has been transformed into a modern area for children featuring a first-responder theme.
“Holder Park exemplifies our dedication to creating unique and memorable places for everyone in Algonquin to enjoy,” Village President Debby Sosine said.
“This park and others under construction feature a strong thematic influence and inclusivity, ensuring that all children can play together in a welcoming environment,” Sosine said.
Holder Park is named in honor of Algonquin Police Officer Larry Holder, who died on July 22, 1982.
Holder drowned in Crystal Creek while attempting to rescue a person who had fallen into the water during a flood.
Holder had served for six years at the Algonquin Police Department.
“We believe that dedicating this playground to our first responders provides a meaningful tribute to Officer Holder’s legacy,” Sosine said.
In April 2021, the village board approved a new 10-year Parks and Recreation Master Plan, which provided the village with a roadmap to improve and enhance the village’s park and recreation offerings.
The village said they are enhancing 20% of Algonquin’s park system this year.