Discover Beauty at DuPage Township's Enabling Garden

The DuPage Township's Enabling Garden is arguably one of the most scenic and serene spots in Bolingbrook.

To enjoy a glimpse of unadulterated grander, consider meandering down the rolling path that links Village Hall to the DuPage Township building.

For maximum impact, pause briefly as you breach the paved brick path where all the flowers are in bloom. Allow your eyes to feast on the visual cornucopia, which leads to the decorative fountain enveloped in vegetation.

This hidden treasure has been apart of the village’s landscape since 2006 after William "Bill" Mayer, the township's supervisor, assumed a leading role in securing a $50,000 grant from the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity. 

Once received, funding was immediately committed to developing an environmentally friendly space with the lofty goal echoing the aura of the Chicago Botanical Gardens.

Ron Homerding, the township's department of maintenance supervisor for the last three decades, embraced the "green" concept, nurturing the initial vision to a life giving "enabling garden."

Five years later, the breathtaking results that stemmed from these efforts continue to blossom.

Nestled between the township office and Sarah and Joseph Levy Center banquet facility, the garden offers the perfect backdrop for hosting small to medium sized weddings.

Spread out over an eighth of an acre and christened, "DuPage Township Roger C. Claar Enabling Garden," this hidden local treasure in all its natural glory is open to the public 365 days a year.

Casual observers are welcome to sit among the assemblage of picnic tables as the majestic clock located in the middle of the garden keeps time.

Of note is the emphasis Mayer placed on "enabling" and extending use of the garden to citizens with disabilities. Therefore, the site was created to include components that awaken the senses, such as a wide variety of distinctive smelling flora which bloom in raised flower beds.

The garden also serves as a multi-generational forum fusing generations.

"The hope is to bring the oldest and youngest in the community together to work side by side where stories are shared which bridge pathways that time separates," said Maureen Fox, the township's administrator.

As temperatures rise, seek solitude in the beauty of the great outdoors in one of the communities greenest and most environmentally friendly destinations.