The objective was to raise $800,000 to build a new Mount Greenwood Park playground before the neighborhood's 100th anniversary celebration.

That goal is well within sight.

Four energetic mothers and a bevy of volunteers have collected $692,000 through grants, donations and fundraising efforts.

The final push will be Sunday at Playlot Palooza, a benefit for the community-led project.

"It is half fundraiser, half celebration because we're so close," said Mary Vogwill, one of the moms-in-charge.

The adults-only party at 115 Bourbon Street in Merrionette Park will feature entertainment by "Maggie Speaks," a live broadcast by 104.3 JACK-FM, food, drinks and a silent auction.

"We want everybody to feel like they can take part in this process at any dollar amount or level," said Terri Oliver, another project leader.

Donations can be made payable to Mount Greenwood Playlot Initiative, Parkways Foundation, 541 N. Fairbanks Court, Suite 850, Chicago, IL 60611.

More than half the money was provided by four major contributors: the Chicago Park District, $200,000; state Rep. Kevin Joyce (D-Chicago) and Ald. Ginger Rugai (19th), $150,000 each; and state Sen. Ed Maloney (D-Chicago), $100,000.

A host of businesses and organizations -- Kohl's, Founders Bank, Walgreens, CN Railroad, the Fraternal Order of Police -- donated $27,000 combined. Fifth Third Bank contributed a $50,000 grant.

Another $15,000 was raised via raffles, commemorative brick sales and individual contributions. For example, students at St. Christina and Mount Greenwood schools raised $600.

If the remaining $108,000 is collected by the end of this month, construction can begin in the spring and the playground will be ready for Mount Greenwood's 2007 centennial celebration.

"We can't wait to start construction and move to the next phase of this project," Oliver said.

For more information, go to the Web site www.mountgreenwoodpark.com or call (773) 233-3061.

Courtney Greve may be reached at cgreve@dailysouthtown.com or (708) 633-5983.

What: Playlot Palooza

For: A new Mount Greenwood Park playground

When: Noon to 6 p.m. Sunday

Where: 115 Bourbon Street, 3359 W. 115th St., Merrionette Park

Tickets: $20, includes food, drinks, live entertainment