Joliet officials have provided some details on plans for Billie Limacher Bicentennial Park and its theater.

Park users, particularly those active in the Bicentennial Park Theatre, have questioned city plans since park manager Lori Carmine was put on administrative leave.

“In 2026, the city of Joliet will continue community programming and expand partnerships with local arts and cultural organizations at Bicentennial Park to highlight Joliet’s diversity through performances, exhibitions and educational programming,” according to a news release issued by the city Thursday afternoon. “The park will also remain an affordable venue for community events.”

The release did not address staffing at the park.

But city spokeswoman Rosemaria DiBenedetto on Friday said the park is currently being managed by Deputy City Manager Christa Desiderio with support from Director of Cultural Affairs and Special Events Ann Sylvester.

DiBenedetto would not comment on Carmine’s job status, saying the city does not comment on personnel matters.

“Signature events,” including Concerts on the Hill and July 3 fireworks, will continue in 2026, according to the release.

Festival of the Gnomes also will return this December.

In 2026, the park will be a site for celebrations marking the centennial of Route 66 and the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, according to the release.

The Joliet Drama Guild will “formalize its role” as theater in residence, according to the release.

The drama guild next year will produce three main stage shows and lead youth programs, including Summertime on Stage and a new Winter Drama Camp. The organization also will “launch Shakespeare on Tour, a traveling program offering free performances at Bicentennial Park and select community locations,” according to the release.

The remainder of 2025 includes “a robust schedule of community and school-based performances,” according to the release.

The Providence Catholic High School production of “May We All” will be at the theater from Nov. 6 to 9. The Joliet Catholic Academy production of “39 Steps” will be there from Nov. 20 to 22.

“We remain focused on supporting the park’s continued success through consistent programming, community partnerships and professional operations that ensure long-term sustainability,” City Manager Beth Beatty said in the release.

The release was the first detailed statement from the city about its plans for the park.

It comes ahead of next week’s City Council meetings on Monday and Tuesday.

When the council last met Oct. 6 and Oct. 7, more than 20 people spoke, questioning plans for the park and calling for information about its future.

The city has never confirmed that Carmine was placed on leave.

DiBenedetto previously said that the city made “certain staffing changes” after administration “became aware of significant operational deviations” at Bicentennial Park.

Bicentennial Park is currently staffed by park office assistants Deanna Opsal and James Robert, along with interns, DiBenedetto said Friday.