Hastings invites community members to fill out survey for Fort Frankfort playground renovation

FRANKFORT – State Senator Michael E. Hastings is inviting community members to provide feedback on the conceptual design ideas for the renovation of Fort Frankfort playground.

“This project is more than upgrading the structure of Fort Frankfort,” said Hastings (D-Frankfort). “It’s a complete renovation that shows a commitment to the vitality of our community. The revamped space will serve as a practical and essential hub where families can gather for generations to come.”  

Fort Frankfort playground was established in late 1999 with the help of community members and over 100 volunteers. The almost 25-year-old playground has been in need of updating, but limited funding has been available for capital projects. In 2023, Senator Hastings secured $1.75 million in state funding for the renovation. The funding will allow the park to become an inclusive playground, eliminating physical and social barriers and creating an equitable play space for all.

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Elected officials and fire protection chiefs announce first-of-its-kind technology in Illinois to reduce EMS response times

Hazel Crest, Ill. – Fire officials and elected leaders today joined together to announce new, first-of-its-kind technology in Illinois will be implemented for south suburban fire departments that will improve emergency response times and emergency care for southland residents.

Through a state grant awarded by Sen. Michael Hastings, south suburban fire departments will soon begin implementing new technology called CentralSquare Unify that will sync dispatch services among fire protection districts signed up for the program. In effect, the new technology will provide instant alerts to south suburban fire protection districts when additional assistance is needed to respond to emergencies.

“A state grant will allow southland fire districts participating in this program to implement technology that we have not yet seen in Illinois,” said Hastings (D-Frankfort). “The new Unify program will allow for quicker emergency response for our communities.”

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Hastings celebrates park district’s acquisition of Tinley Park Mental Health Center

TINLEY PARK – Thanks to support from State Senator Michael E. Hastings, the Tinley Park-Park District has acquired the former Tinley Park Mental Health Center site and will move forward with renovating the area into recreational space for residents.

“Tinley Park deserves a community space that is something to be proud of,” said Hastings (D-Frankfort).  “I am overjoyed with the park district’s plan to restore such an important space in our area.”

Hastings led the passage of a law that allowed the park district to purchase the Tinley Park Mental Health Center and Howe Development Center for $1. A $15 million grant from the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity will help fund the revitalization efforts. The plan for the property includes athletic fields, track and field facilities, a domed sports complex and open recreational space.

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Hastings launches Valentine’s Day card drive for seniors

FRANKFORT – To lift the spirits of seniors during the winter season, State Senator Michael E. Hastings urges residents of all ages to be creative by donating homemade or store-bought Valentine’s Day cards.

“Donating cards is one small way we can show appreciation for our seniors during the winter season,” said Hastings (D-Frankfort). “Taking some time out of your day to write a quick card will brighten up our seniors’ day and show them they are important to our community.”

Hastings is encouraging community members to write Valentine’s Day cards, which can be dropped off or mailed to his district office. Once all the cards have been collected, they will be delivered to senior facilities in the 19^th District.

The collection of Valentine’s Day cards will run through Friday, Feb. 9. Those wishing to participate can drop off cards at Hastings’ office or mail them to 20855 S. Lagrange Rd., Suite 102, Frankfort, IL 60423.

For more information, residents can contact Hastings’ office at 815-464-5431.