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MUNDELEIN, IL—Mundelein Park & Recreation District’s Commissioners approved the Diamond Lake Master Plan at last night’s board meeting, paving the way for a long-term transformation for the site into a vibrant, accessible, and financially sustainable community destination. As part of this new vision, the site—formerly known as Diamond Lake Recreation Center and Diamond Lake Beach—has been renamed The Landing on Diamond Lake, reflecting its evolution into a welcoming gathering place for recreation, connection, and community.
Goals and Objectives of the Master Plan include:
• Establish Diamond Lake as a premier destination
• Enhance economic vitality and local partnerships
• Provide diverse, year-round recreational opportunities
• Improve connectivity, accessibility, and safely
• Restore and protect the natural environment
• Address regulatory and shoreline access challenges
• Upgrade facilities and operational management.
“Approval of this master plan allows us to get right to work,” said Ron Salski, Executive Director of the Mundelein Park & Recreation District. “We’re moving forward with a phased approach that begins by opening the southern portion of the site for public access. Our first steps include removing the chain-link fence and replacing it with split-rail fencing, adding accessible pathways, seating, lighting and site furnishings to create a welcoming lakeside experience. We plan to open The Landing this summer and launch food and beverage service, including adult beverages, Thursdays through Sundays during peak season. This is an exciting first step in bringing this vision to life for the community.”
The Landing will host special events such as the Pup & Pour: An Outdoor Movie Night by the Lake (Ages 21+) on June 12 and Camp S’more Memories: A Mom & Son “Almost Campout” (Ages 5–13 w/Adult) August 7, The facility is also available for private rentals for meetings, celebrations and evolving community needs.
The phased approach for the Action Plan is designed to balance early activation, financial sustainability, and long-term transformation while remaining flexible to adapt to funding opportunities, regulatory requirements, and evolving community needs.
Phase 1 (2026–2028) will create a safe, welcoming, and activated lakefront environment that encourages public use, and established the foundation for future improvements.
Phase 2 (2029–2031) introduces significant capital improvements that expand recreational opportunities, enhance visitor experience and support increased programming and revenue generation.
Phase 3 (2032–2033) focuses on elevating the site into a unique regional destination through signature features, expanded programming, and continued site development.
The District is committed to minimizing taxpayer impact while maximizing external funding opportunities. It has received two grants that will be used towards Phase 1 including $450,000 a State of Illinois due to the efforts of Representative Dan Didech and a Tourism Attractions Grant of $200,000. Each phase will be evaluated against available funding and return on investment to ensure long-term financial sustainability. Through this phased, strategic approach, the District is positioned to transform The Landing on Diamond Lake into a vibrant, accessible, and sustainable destination that will serve the community for generations to come.
The Diamond Lake Master Plan is available on our website at https://www.mundeleinparks.org/about-the-park-district/planning-projects/diamond-lake-master-plan/.
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