The Bloomington Parks & Recreation Department, serving over 75,000 residents in Central Illinois, manages more than 1,100 acres, including 40+ parks, three golf courses, aquatic facilities, and an ice rink. Established on April 30, 1968, under Mayor Bob McGraw, it began with divisions for parks and recreation. The 1970s and '80s saw significant expansion, including O’Neil Pool and the Constitution Trail. In 2009, it merged with the Cultural District to form the Parks, Recreation and Cultural Arts Department, enriching community arts and facilities, including the future Creativity Center.
