Will County Gazette

The Park Forest Board of Trustees approved a partial renovation plan for the Park Forest Aqua Center at their meeting on Monday night. The renovation will notably include the addition of a splash pad.

Kevin Adams, Director of Recreation, Parks, and Community Health, presented two options to the Board. With the partial renovation plan now agreed upon, Adams mentioned several preparatory steps that will precede the start of construction.

"The consultants will now work on the 'due diligence' portion before moving on to architectural and engineering plans," Adams explained. "This means they will conduct a deeper analysis of the current infrastructure based on Option 2 and inquire with the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) to learn more about the 'major alterations' the agency will likely require for this project."

In a March memo, Adams detailed the Village's options: a complete remodel at an estimated cost of $8 million (Option 1) or a partial renovation for $3.5 million (Option 2), which includes a splash pad. He indicated that the IDPH would categorize the renovation as a "major alteration," requiring the facility to comply with current standards and additional state-mandated modifications.

Adams highlighted that consultants would obtain a detailed understanding from the state on required modifications and compare those with their assessment of the Aqua Center's current conditions. The bidding process to secure contractors will also begin soon.

A standard procedure will be followed if any bids exceed the village manager's spending authority. Such bids will return to the Board for approval. Once approved, construction can commence.

The Aqua Center will remain closed for the season, according to Adams. He assured that all necessary steps are being taken to ensure a successful project that residents can appreciate for years to come.