McLean County Times

The Town of Normal has introduced a new initiative to document the changing landscapes across the community by installing 10 time-lapse photo stations. The project, managed by the Parks & Recreation team in partnership with Chronolog, invites residents and visitors to participate in creating time-lapse compilations of various sites.

The photo stations are equipped with signs and camera holders, allowing participants to take standardized photos and upload them to Chronolog’s website. The images collected over time will be used to compile videos that show how each location evolves.

Doug Damery, director of Parks & Recreation, stated: “We are proud of our parks and recreation amenities and want to document the development, progression and changes through the seasons. This program encourages visitors to engage in that process.” He added: “It’s easy to participate. Anyone can take a photo from the photo stations and submit them to be included in a crowd-sourced time lapse video.”

The selected locations for these stations range from parks and natural areas to Uptown Normal and construction sites. Specific sites include Aller Shelter near Connie Link Amphitheatre, Brander Shelter at Underwood Park, Maxwell Park’s Disc Golf Course, Fairview Park’s Skate Park, Ironwood Golf Course’s putting greens, Route 66 Sign at One Normal Plaza, Safety Town at Carden Park, Uptown Normal street views, and Fire Station 2 at Blackstone Trails. The station at Fire Station 2 is scheduled for installation soon.

Through this citizen science effort with Chronolog, the Town aims not only to monitor environmental changes but also to encourage public engagement with local spaces.

For those needing ADA accessibility assistance or help accessing programs provided by the Town of Normal, contact ADA Coordinator Greg Troemel via email or phone.