Introduction
As Illinois continues to grapple with complex pension shortfalls at the state level, the Quincy Park District stands out as a beacon of fiscal responsibility and forward-thinking public management. With its employee pension fund not only fully funded but operating at a surplus of $1.3 million, the district is capitalizing on its financial health to undertake several community-enhancing initiatives this summer and fall, including the much-needed river dredging of Quincy Bay.
River Dredging to Restore Navigation and Environmental Health
One of the cornerstone projects set to kick off this summer is the Quincy Bay dredging operation, scheduled to begin on June 24, led by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The bay has long suffered from excessive silt accumulation, which has made it increasingly shallow and poses challenges for both recreational boating and maintaining environmental stability.
The dredging project, currently underway in Keokuk, will soon transition to Quincy. This operation will involve removing tons of sediment from the bay floor, improving water flow and depth, and restoring access for boaters, anglers, and other users of this critical waterway.
“Quincy Bay has reached a point where environmental dredging is not just a maintenance activity—it’s a necessity,” said Rome Frericks, Executive Director of the Quincy Park District. “This is about preserving one of Quincy’s most important natural assets for future generations.”
Why Environmental Dredging Matters
Environmental dredging differs from traditional commercial dredging in that it is often aimed not only at improving navigation but also at restoring ecological balance. In the case of Quincy Bay, accumulated silt can trap pollutants and reduce oxygen levels, negatively impacting aquatic life. Removing this sediment enables the revitalization of native species, enhances water quality, and fosters a healthier habitat for both flora and fauna.
River dredging also helps protect nearby neighborhoods from potential flooding, especially during heavy rains or seasonal snow melts. By maintaining an appropriate channel depth, stormwater has a more direct path to flow, reducing the chance of backflow into residential areas.
A Summer of Expansion for Quincy Parks
The Quincy Bay dredging effort is just one part of a larger wave of improvements and activities unfolding across the city’s park system. Backed by strong financial stewardship and a robust pension surplus earning over 9% interest, the Quincy Park District is investing in new infrastructure, programming, and staff development without placing a strain on local taxpayers.
Among the upcoming initiatives:
- Facility Upgrades: Several buildings and recreation centers will undergo updates to enhance accessibility and improve energy efficiency.
- Playground and Trail Enhancements: Renovations are planned for multiple playgrounds, and additional walking and biking trails will be connected to the existing network.
- Volunteer Expansion: With more than 2,500 active volunteers, the park district is launching new community outreach and training programs to expand its base and improve service delivery.
“We’re reinvesting in the community in ways that make a visible difference,” said Frericks. “From healthier parks to enhanced programs, it’s all about long-term impact.”
Certified Forest Therapy Park Now Open
Another unique highlight this summer is the official certification of Nature Trails East as a Forest Therapy Park—one of only a few in the nation. The practice of “forest bathing,” also known as Shinrin-yoku, involves immersing oneself in a natural setting to enhance mental and physical well-being. The park now offers information cards and resources on forest therapy, available at local doctors’ offices, to promote holistic well-being through nature.
Westview Golf Course Enters a New Era
On the recreation front, Westview Golf Course is looking for a new superintendent following the retirement of Rick Miles, who served for 22 years. The search takes place at a busy time, as rounds of golf increase and the prestigious Little People’s Golf Tournament is held from Sunday through Wednesday, drawing young players and their families from across the country.
Financial Responsibility Drives Growth
Perhaps most notably, all of these projects are being accomplished without raising property taxes—a testament to the park district’s long-standing commitment to frugality and strategic investment.
“Because we’ve been responsible stewards of public money for years, we’re now in a position to do more without asking for more,” Frericks explained. “The return on our pension investments isn’t just sitting in a bank—it’s going right back into Quincy.”
By maintaining a pension funding level above 100%, the Quincy Park District is a rare example of how good governance and community-first thinking can defy statewide trends and create sustainable success.
Looking Ahead
As Quincy Bay prepares to welcome dredging crews and the broader park system buzzes with summer activity, 2025 will be a landmark year for the Quincy Park District. The district’s ability to combine environmental stewardship, financial responsibility, and community engagement serves as a model for municipalities across the state—and even the nation.
To stay updated on project timelines, community events, or to volunteer, residents are encouraged to visit the Quincy Park District website. With so much underway, it’s a season of momentum that Quincy is proud to call its own.