Storyland is now open in time for Labor Day but it almost didn’t happen.
Back in March, the amusement park located at 890 W. Belmont Ave announced there was no money and the gates would close indefinitely.
In an effort to save Storyland, a group of community leaders formed a new board and began implementing a sustainable plan, including the need for $850,000 to reopen both Storyland and Playland.
In just six months, nearly $500,000 has been raised by individuals, businesses, matching donors and students.
Bruce Batti, the Vice Chair of the new board says they sent out donor envelopes and the community rallied – even kids.
“300,000 of those envelopes that went out in to the community came back – some of them with big checks, some of them with handwritten notes in crayon with $2 in it saying ‘Please open Storyland – we love it.’ – Bruce Batti., Storyland Board Vice Chair.
A 20-thousand dollar check came in right before the ribbon cutting.
Vast improvements to the park have been made – largely completed by hundreds of volunteers.
Everything from new ADA compliant walkways, restrooms, character costumes, train repairs, freshly-painted exhibits and landscaping can be attributed to the volunteer work of a community that came together.
Now, the park that’s been open 60 years as long as Disneyland will continue to provide low cost educational entertainment for children and their families.
Storyland festivities will continue through Labor Day, with characters roaming the park, live entertainment, keys to the kingdom, and celebrity train conductors.
Park hours for the reopening holiday weekend are Friday through Sunday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Monday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tickets are $5.00 for adults, $3.50 for kids (11 and under) and $4 for seniors over 65.
There will be an adults only “Ever After Party” Friday evening, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., where park enthusiasts, donors and community leaders will gather to celebrate not only how far Storyland has come these last six months, but how it will continue to nurture our youth’s love for learning well into the future.
Tickets are $25 and can be purchased at the gate or online at www.savestoryland.com
Fundraising efforts are still underway to reopen Playland, which is scheduled for spring 2016.
