In Chicago’s West Loop neighborhood, families cool off in an architecturally unique fountain plaza featuring five stainless steel gates that emit a fine mist of vaporized water. The same five gates set the stage for a picturesque wedding photo or an unbeatable sunset.

In the same area, dogs run free in a sunken dog park that provides continuously filling water bowls, ramps, ledges, and steps that fuel the furry fun. Children embrace the ADA-accessible play area that offers play equipment as inventive as their imaginations. Parkgoers enjoy epic views of the Chicago skyline and the native landscaping, which is designed to capture stormwater.

This lovely, distinctive, climate-smart park, known as Mary Bartelme Park, spans 2.7 acres and provides an outdoor escape for residents of the densely populated West Loop neighborhood and other visitors.

In the early 2000s, the West Loop neighborhood transformed from mostly light industrial uses into a dynamic residential destination with shops and a vibrant dining scene. However, the neighborhood lacked the parks and open space to meet the needs of new and existing residents and families. In 2007 Trust for Public Land acquired the land, which once housed an eye and ear infirmary, and protected it from development until it became the wonderful park it is today.

The park’s name honors the first woman judge in Illinois, Mary Bartelme, who dedicated her life to reforming the treatment of children and women in the court system.

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