The recreational facilities within one of the Northwest Side's largest parks would be improved through a Tax Increment Financing (TIF) proposal submitted to City Council today by Mayor Richard M. Daley.

Joseph Higgins Smith Park, at 2526 W. Grand Ave., would receive drainage and dugout upgrades, along with a rehabilitated ceramics building, through the proposal to allocate $924,000 from the Kinzie Industrial TIF District to cover related costs.

"Thanks to TIF, we can continue to invest in our parks and open spaces to ensure they remain community anchors for many years to come," Mayor Daley said.

The TIF assistance would also pay for a playground renovation completed earlier this year by the Chicago Park District.

The 9.8-acre park was established in 1929 when it was converted from a former garbage dump. It was named for a former alderman.

TIF is a City of Chicago funding tool that's used to promote infrastructure and other improvements as well as create jobs in designated districts across the city.