Peoria Park District to offer programming for East Bluff

PEORIA, Ill. (WMBD) — As plans to move the East Bluff Community Center to what was once a Kroger on Wisconsin Avenue take shape, several organizations are looking to help make the transition easier.

At Tuesday’s board meeting for the Peoria Park District, a letter of intent was approved that will lead to the park district working together and offering programs in East Bluff.

The proposed new center on Wisconsin Avenue can be seen below:

Board President Robert Johnson said it was important to reach out to the neighborhood in any way possible.

“We just want to let the East Bluff community know that we’re here.” We always want to serve them and help them, whatever we can do as a park district for this community,” he said.

The former Kroger building is owned by Heartland Health Services, and the Greater Peoria Family YMCA also appears to be part of the collaboration.

Johnson said it is not yet known what programming will be offered, but that will be determined at subsequent meetings.

He said the more activities available to young people, the better. He said it would get them off the streets and make them less likely to get into trouble.

A bid for a project to renovate the golf learning center on Radnor Road has also been approved. The funds come from a $4 million grant from the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) that will provide a Top Golf facility, as well as a bar and restaurant.

Johnson said he hopes it will attract a younger crowd and those who may not be interested in golf, but are looking for a good time.