Will County Gazette

The Park Forest Board of Trustees is reconsidering its plans for the Park Forest Aqua Center after learning that renovation costs will far exceed initial estimates. At a board meeting on Monday, Recreation, Parks and Community Health Director Kevin Adams informed trustees that improvements required by the Illinois Department of Public Health Swimming Facility Code would increase costs to more than $7 million, up from the $3.5 million previously budgeted.

Assessments by Williams Architects and Councilman-Hunsaker in 2024 and 2025 found that the 70-year-old facility has major leaks, corrosion, and functional issues. As a result, village staff presented five possible options to the board: a full $20 million redevelopment, closure of the center, scaled-back renovation, building only a splash pad, or constructing both a splash pad and new lap pool.

Adams recommended building a new lap swim pool alongside a large splash pad at an estimated cost of $6.5 million. He said this plan would reduce annual staffing expenses while maintaining key programs such as lap swimming and learn-to-swim classes.

“This option replaces the failing infrastructure while still providing inclusive aquatic recreation for residents of all ages,” Adams said. He added that this approach would allow for future expansion if additional funding becomes available.

Trustee Maya Hardy expressed concern about whether the proposal meets the needs of all age groups and asked staff to explore more alternatives. Trustee Randall White agreed with her position.

“I almost want to say, can we go back to the drawing board to make sure we can accommodate the children, as well as the seniors, as well as the adults in between,” Hardy said.

Trustee John Moore suggested that this situation could be used to reassess how the Aqua Center operates in order to improve its long-term sustainability.

“Is this an opportunity to right-size the operations of the Aqua Center, which in the long-term would make it more sustainable?” Moore asked.

Adams responded that residents may need to accept changes in how they view and use the facility moving forward.

Trustee Erin Slone highlighted ongoing financial challenges at the center. She noted that revenue has dropped from $57,000 in 2021 to $35,000 in 2024 while transfers from the general fund have remained at least $250,000 each year to cover expenses.

Mayor Joseph A. Woods told residents that discussions about next steps are continuing. Staff also indicated that under any proposed option involving construction, the Aqua Center will remain closed for renovations during 2026.