DOWNERS GROVE, Ill. –The Downers Grove Park District Board of Park Commissioners recognized local Scout Thomas Svoboda at the May 20th Park Board meeting for his work with the Downers Grove Historic Preservation Corporation and the Downers Grove Park District.  Svoboda developed and constructed a new, wooden front porch on the 1846 Blodgett House located on the Park District Museum campus. This year-long community project helped Svoboda to fulfill his Eagle badge requirements and attain his Eagle Scout Status. Thomas had a specific interest in the Blodgett House and its history;  as his family believes one of their ancestors was directly involved with the Underground Railroad.  Thomas worked with the DGHPC, the architect, Village staff, Park District staff and a master carpenter to determine project needs, requirements, codes and supply needs. Thomas also procured the necessary funding, organized volunteer labor resources, designed the improvements and managed the actual construction of improvements.   

The Downers Grove Park District is dedicated to providing a wide variety of year-round recreation programs, facilities, parks, open space and natural areas that respond to the articulated needs and desires of residents. For more information, call (630) 963-1300, or visit www.dgparks.org