In 2004 the Village of Riverton undertook a ambitious plan to convert 20 acres of farm ground into a recreational center for Riverton and the surrounding area. The Village originally paid $200,000 dollars for this ground just west of the Village Municipal Center located at 1200 E. Riverton Road. At that time the acreage was planted in corn, so the project was called the "Field of Dreams" Park Project from the popular movie of the same name.
Due to the lack of public football and soccer fields and to satisfy the need for additional baseball/softball diamonds, these would be included in the project. In addition, walkways, a pond and a concession/restroom facility completed the proposed park. Once completed, this park will be a great asset to kids of all ages as a recreation center for the Riverton area. As a public park, these facilities will be open to all.
Now that the basic plan was in shape, funding was needed to start the project. With the initial expenditure to purchase the ground, the Village was not fiscally capable to contribute much for this phase of the project. Personal and corporate donations were solicited from area residents and businesses. Although area residents support many local organizations and programs, response to this request was tremendous. In a short time personal and corporate donations were received. The Riverton School District held fundraisers such as a 3 on 3 Tournament and a Donkey Basketball game. The Village sponsored a pancake breakfast and the "Take Me Out to the Ballpark" benefit featuring Baseball Hall of Fame Pitcher Robin Roberts. Various grants are being pursued to help fund the construction of this park.
As funding was received, the park was graded and seeded, making it available for practice for the local soccer teams and JFL Football. In the summer of 2006 a parking lot, soccer and football goals were installed. The Village provides the labor for this construction with help from Clear Lake Township and other local entities. Grants are currently being explored to purchase baseball equipment to provide diamonds for these activities.
This progress has not been without costs, depleting the fund established for this project. Funding is still needed for bleachers, fences, lighting, and the concession/restroom facility. Any donation is accepted and appreciated. Donations of $25 or more will be recognized on a plaque to be installed in the park. Large corporate or personal donations will be acknowledged with separate recognition in a manner consistent with the donation.
If you would like to help bring this "Field of Dreams" to completion, you can mail your donation to the Village of Riverton 1200 E Riverton Road, Riverton, IL 62561. Further information can be received by calling the Village at 217-629-9122. Thank you!

Location Field of Dreams

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