CRYSTAL LAKE – The crown jewel of the city's parks, Three Oaks Recreation Area, has garnered the attention of the state when it was named a Governor's Hometown Award recipient.
The recreation area won in its division that included communities with a population between 25,001 and 70,000.
"It's a very high honor to receive this award," Mayor Aaron Shepley said at a recent City Council meeting in which the award was announced. "It's reflected favorably on the city staff who have put their heart and soul into this project, and members of [the City] Council."
"It's a great honor and I couldn't be happier," the Mayor continued.
A $14 million project, Three Oaks Recreation Area opened in 2010 after transforming the former Vulcan Materials gravel pits into a 500-acre beach, park and recreation area.
Three Oaks Recreation Area includes a swim beach, rental marina, trails, and picnic grounds.
