Attucks Park

Acreage 27 acres
Facilities Ball fields, Basketball, Cricket, Exercise Track, Multi-use field, Playground, Shelters, Spray Park
Amenities Parking, BBQ Grills, Picnikking, Restrooms, Drinking Fountain
Enhancements Flower Beds, Hiking & Walking Trails
Directions Map

Attucks Park

400-800 N. Wall Street, Carbondale, IL 62901

Park History

The Carbondale Koppers Justice Memorial was erected at Attucks Park in Carbondale, Illinois to honor and remember the people who experienced environmental racism through chemical exposure from the nation’s largest wood treatment plant, in operation from 1902-1991. The facility, located one half mile north of this monument, produced railroad ties and utility poles that were used throughout America. Workers were regularly exposed to exploitative conditions and wood treatment chemicals, including creosote and dioxins. Residents and workers were not made aware of the toxicity and no cautionary protection or information was provided until 2004. The sacrifice of the African American community of Northeast Carbondale is still in evidence today through illness and death. The pollution caused by the Koppers’ Tie Plant continues to impact generations of workers, their families, and residents. The contaminated soil and water will never be fully remediated. The fight for justice continues. 

Read more about this project and its history by following the links, below: 

Carbondale Koppers Justice   
https://carbondalekoppersjustice.com/

Carbondale Koppers Justice Facebook Group   
https://www.facebook.com/Carbondale-Koppers-Justice-279808677146081

Hazardous Waste Cleanup: Former Koppers Wood Treatment Facility – Carbondale, Illinois   
https://www.epa.gov/hwcorrectiveactionsites/

March 8, 2023

Rent one of our park pavilions or facilities! We have a variety of rental options that can accommodate birthday parties, conferences, board meetings, social gatherings, corporate retreats, community events, and much more. Download the form or Reserve Online

Mission Statement

Mission: The mission of the Carbondale Park District is to serve the rich diversity of the Carbondale community with an equally rich and diverse array of recreation, wellness, education, and leisure opportunities. We are dedicated to environmental stewardship, education, and the preservation of public open spaces. Values: Community Leadership – Sustainable Practices – Innovative Opportunities – Effective and Efficient Operations

Contact info

Find us at the Office

  • 925 S. Giant City Rd. Carbondale, IL 62901
  • 618-549-4222
  • info@cpkd.org
  • Hours: Mon - Thurs, 9:00-6:00 & Friday, 9:00-5:00

Park Board & Administration

Park District Links