Roscoe seeks local architects for Porter Park expansion

The expansion will include an outdoor fitness plaza, public restrooms, a walking path and expanded disc golf courses.

“Some of the best disc golf players to ever come out of Rockford started at Porter Park, who lived in this neighborhood, maybe that neighborhood went to Harlem, went to Hononegah,” said disc golfer Chad Hoffman. “So, it’s the local kids, it’s the community… and some of those players are making money now playing disc golf.”

The 12-acre expansion will allow even more holes to be played by disc golfers.

“Porter Park’s interested in the other side of the Little Creek, where the roundabout is on the other side,” said Hoffman. “We could potentially expand to another four or six holes over there.”

Village President Carol Gustafson expects the project to also provide visitors with a bridge and an extra parking lot. The president is looking for an architect to further help.

“We’re very, very excited about being able to get this project underway,” said Gustafson. “It begins with putting out a request for proposal. We need a designer to help our dreams come true.”

Hoffman expressed his appreciation to the village for its work to maintain the park’s beauty.

“This park has changed so much. It started with nine holes, then 12 holes, and 16 holes, and now we’re looking at 20-some holes,” Hoffman explained. “So, it’s just highlighting more of this beautiful park. So, the fact that they want to put some money and spend and keep this place going for generations, I think, is wonderful.”

To apply to help redesign the layout of Porter Park, fill out this form.