P R O J E C T

U P D A T E S

Project Phases:

Our project work moves through a process that's divided into four phases: Defining, Planning, Execution and Completion. For detailed definitions of each project phase, go here

EXECUTION PHASE

Recreation Feasibility Study

Community engagement continues to play a key role in the District’s Recreation Feasibility Study for the Community Recreation Center, Centennial Recreation Complex and Big Tree Lane.

Following strong participation in the initial questionnaire and Wilmette Block Party activities, the more comprehensive "Dig a Little Deeper Survey" is now coming to a close after extending the deadline to November 8.

After data collection, the District plans to share survey results and begin developing community engagement meetings to further explore resident priorities and help shape preliminary concepts and recommendations for the future of recreation in Wilmette.

Click Here to learn all about the Recreation Feasibility Study Project.

EXECUTION PHASE

Centennial Cooling Tower Project

Construction continues on the Centennial Recreation Complex Cooling Tower Replacement Project, with foundation work completed and major equipment deliveries expected in November.

During excavation, crews identified an unexpected water main conflict that will require relocation, with a contract recommendation anticipated in November.

The District also announced the community's preferred sound barrier design, Option D, which received 207 votes and features a navy background with a yellow prairie scene inspired by the nearby Centennial Prairie.

The final design will incorporate this concept, with the application method determined by budget, materials and long-term durability.

Click Here to learn all about the Cooling Tower Project.

A D D I T I O N A L

U P D A T E S

CENTENNIAL POOL - The Board reviewed a proposed operating plan for the 2027 Centennial Family Aquatics Center. The plan outlines a season from May 29 through September 6, with morning lap swimming potentially extending through September 19 for an additional daily fee.

Planned improvements include refinished waterslides, additional shade umbrellas, locker room updates and upgraded poolside furnishings.

2027 BUDGET - The Board began reviewing proposed 2027 budget for recreation programs, facilities, operations and capital improvements.

Proposed 2027 initiatives include new youth flag football programming, expanded gymnastics camps, additional adult golf instruction and simplified lakefront and pool season-pass pricing.

Budget discussions will continue as the District finalizes its plans for the coming year.

SUSTAINABILITY: The District's composting drop-off program collected 5,291 pounds of material in September.

The Sustainability Committee also awarded funding for two internal initiatives: pursuing a Leave No Trace designation for lakefront operations and introducing biodegradable gym wipes at Center Fitness Club.

WILMETTE GOLF CLUB: Despite a challenging September marked by heavy rainfall, golf participation and membership sales remain strong, with a new fleet of golf carts arriving and additional adult golf programming planned for 2027.

The Board also reviewed a proposed five-year renewal of The Lawn restaurant agreement, continuing a successful partnership that has enhanced the golf experience and established the facility as a community dining destination.

The proposed agreement would increase monthly rent paid to the District from $6,500 to $8,200 in 2027, with annual increases thereafter.

A C C E S S

To view Agendas and Minutes from past Board meetings, click here. Minutes are posted after they are approved.



FINANCE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING:

Monday, November 9 - at 6:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers of the Village Hall at 1200 Wilmette Avenue.

REGULAR MONTHLY BOARD MEETING:

Monday, November 9 - at 7:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers of the Village Hall at 1200 Wilmette Avenue.


COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING: 
Monday, November 16 - at 6:30 p.m. in the Mallinckrodt Center, 1041A Ridge Road.


NOTE: Wilmette Park District no longer prints full meeting packets. A QR code and link to an online packet will be made available. To request a printed packet for an upcoming meeting, please contact mparson@wilpark.org a minimum of two hours prior to the meeting start time.

All meetings are open to the public. Details are posted on the Upcoming Meetings page on our website.

Regular Monthly Board Meetings are available to view live on Channel 6 locally for Comcast subscribers. View a live meeting online here, or view previous meeting recordings here. Please check our website often for updates.