On Galesburg’s Morning News, Tom Simkins, special projects coordinator, outlines the upcoming Kiwanis Park Skatepark renovation, set for volunteer work sessions on Friday and Saturday, Aug. 15-16, 2025, at 8 a.m. at Michigan and Knox Streets. Volunteers will replace worn Masonite sheets, requiring only basic skills and cordless drills.

For those interested in volunteering at the skatepark: Just show up at 8 a.m. this Friday and or Saturday at Kiwanis Park Skatepark. If you have one, bring a fully-charged cordless drill and an extra battery if available.

[caption id="attachment_683366" align="aligncenter" width="800"] Work is being done to rehab the skate park at Kiwanis Park in Galesburg. (JAY REDFERN/WGIL)[/caption]

Simkins also details other city initiatives, including Cooke Park’s new playground and fencing, a $15,000 Trees Forever grant funding 100 new trees, and diverse plantings across East South Street and downtown. Standish Park aims to become a more usable space in collaboration with Knox College, while the East Main Corridor project progresses slowly. Vandalism at Full Viewpoint Park and budget constraints pose challenges. The Public Library’s landscaping thrives with volunteer support. Simkins emphasizes community involvement to maintain and enhance Galesburg’s public spaces

[caption id="attachment_683365" align="aligncenter" width="861"] City of Galesburg special projects coordinator Tom Simkins. (WGIL)[/caption]