Birchwood Park

Birchwood Park, at the corner of Lawndale and Hilldale streets, is the result of a joint effort between FEMA, the city, and the park district to alleviate some residents' flood problems.

Prior to 1992, the property had two residences, but these often faced flooding issues as they were located at the confluence of two tributaries of Farm Creek, one from the north and one from the east. 

In 1980, a particularly damaging flooding incident occurred, covering the areas of Lawndale, Hilldale, and Birchwood with several feet of water.

After two separate flooding incidents in 1990, the residents became more vocal in their pleas for help.  In 1992, FEMA purchased the properties at 902 and 904 Birchwood Drive to relieve those homeowners of their burden.  FEMA then donated the property to the city, which paid for the demolition of the homes and landscaping.

By 1994, the area had been turned into the park it is today, with some sparse playground equipment and a picnic area. The city still owns it, but the park district provides regular landscape maintenance. As per the FEMA agreement, it must remain an open space.