Delavan High School mathematics instructor Nathan Brooks is championing a new recreational opportunity for the city—one he says would bring the community together while utilizing existing green space. Brooks presented a proposal to the Delavan City Council this week, advocating for the construction of an 18-hole disc golf course at Lake Park.

The project, estimated to cost around $5,000, has garnered significant local support. Brooks, working alongside local businesses, collected 79 signatures on a petition endorsing the initiative.

“[Disc golf] is really popular because the cost to play is really cheap. One disc is usually if it's used, is about like $8,” Brooks said. 

Disc golf, a sport similar to traditional golf but played with specialized flying discs, has seen a surge in popularity across the country. Brooks believes Lake Park’s layout makes it an ideal location for a course, offering both accessibility and natural beauty, as well as being the only 18-hole disc golf course between Pekin and Springfield.

Brooks first presented the idea to the council in February of 2023, but revisited the proposal now due to the availability of inexpensive baskets and free concrete pads for the tee areas, making the project more financially viable

City council members seemed receptive to the idea and have added the proposal to the agenda for their next meeting, where a formal vote will take place. Ward 1 Alderman Joshua Lusher noted the strong support the project has already received.

“I've got a lot of phone calls on it already,” Lusher said during the discussion.

During the meeting, Ward 3 Alderman Linda Slabaugh raised an important question about accessibility, asking whether the course would be usable by all residents, including those with disabilities. Brooks responded that as long as individuals can navigate on grass, they would be able to play on the course.

Mayor Adam White encouraged Brooks to continue gathering support for the initiative. He requested that Brooks work on raising private funds to help offset costs and continue collecting petition signatures. White asked that Brooks return to the council with a more precise funding request and an updated number of supporters for consideration at the next meeting.

Local businesses and disc golf enthusiasts hope the council will greenlight the plan, bringing a new recreational option to Delavan. Residents interested in learning more or supporting the initiative are encouraged to attend the next council meeting.

If approved, the course could be installed for use this year.

The presentation made by Brooks can be viewed at City Hall or downloaded here.