June 11: Workshop Meeting of the Park Board

Representative from Williams Architects presented the Schematic Design Final Design for the renovation of the Park Fitness (Recreation Center of Highland Park) locker room shower area.

Staff shared the process (why or why not change a name) and findings (pros vs. cons) for the proposed name for the new recreational center at West Ridge Park. Staff recommends changing the name to West Ridge Community Center. Staff received consent from the Park Board of Commissioners to allow the recommended new name to wait the sixty-day period prior to vote.

A statistically valid survey was released to community members that represents the demographic to gather feedback for the updated masterplan. 

Staff reviewed and made changes to the Park District of Highland Park Policy Manual in its entirety. All draft policies have been reviewed by legal, Ancel Glink, to ensure up-to-date compliance with the Park District Code. The Park Board reviewed and approved the changes to chapters 1-2. Staff presented a review schedule for chapters 3-6. 

Staff provided construction project updates for the Park Fitness (Recreation Center of Highland Park) Landscaping project, Port Clinton Playground renovation, Sunset Woods Park improvements, Larry Fink Toto Lot renovation, Centennial Ice Arena Dehumidification project, New facility and Site Improvements at West Ridge Park, and Club Pickle and Padel Facility project. 

The Park District is reviewing and updating our ordinance and working with the Highland Park Police as they review their Ordinance and regulations regarding e-bikes on park paths. Also, staff are installing signs at Park Avenue “Bicycles, Skateboard and Scooters are not allowed on sidewalks or boardwalk”. 

June 17: Finance Committee Meeting

A Representative from Sikich LLP presented a draft of the Park District’s Annual Comprehensive Financial Report. 

Staff reviewed and provided a contract recommendation for the 2025 Lincoln Park Renovation bid. 

Staff proposed the Finance Committee move their meetings to the third Thursday of every month at 8:00 a.m. 

June 25: Regular Meeting of the Park Board

The Park Board adopted a Proclamation for the designation of July as Parks and Recreation Month.

The Park Board approved Ordinance 2025-08- Authorizing and Providing for the Conveyance or Sale of Surplus Personal Property, the 2024 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report of the Park District of Highland Park, the bid from Hacienda Landscaping Inc. for the 2025 Lincoln Park Improvements, including value engineering recommendations and Alternates 1 and 4, and the additional scope items proposed by Holabird and Root Authorizing Additional Architectural and Engineering Services for West Ridge Park Site Planning and Project Improvements including the proposal for Site-Based Owner Revisions Post-Bid, Permit & GMP Issuance for Programming & Scope Work Sessions in the amount not to exceed $29,000, and Site-Based Owner Revisions Post-Bid, Permit & GMP Issuance for the South Ballfield. 

The statistically valid community survey is complete for the updated masterplan. A separate survey will be released this week to the entire community to further community engagement.

Staff provided a year in review for 2024 and year to date scholarship spending.

The Recreation Center of Highland Park has been one of the premier facilities at your Park District of Highland Park for nearly 20 years. Through fitness fads that came and went, and workout trends that we refined and helped you incorporate into your personal routines, we’ve stayed an integral part of the community. We’re grateful for your support, and for the lasting friendships we’ve built.

Today, we’re announcing a significant change: we will now be known as Park Fitness!

Our new name highlights not only who we are, but who we aspire to be. Park aligns with our history as a major facility at your Park District, and also references our physical locations—just steps away from The Preserve, a magnificent 100-acre nature-based park full of walking and biking trails—and Park Avenue West that brings you right to our door. Fitness highlights who we are at our core: extensive offerings for physical health and overall well-being in a place designed to be a community hub—where social engagement enhances every workout in an inclusive, welcoming, caring environment. It’s a combination that makes Park Fitness truly extraordinary.

If you are new to the community, or the Park District, we invite you to see the transformation that our members have been watching over the past two years. The 5,850 square foot Fitness Floor has been redesigned to be more comfortable, and quieter, with an exceptional range of equipment that gives you more opportunities to create a personalized workout routine—on your own or with one of our expert trainers. All of the requisite machines and stations are here: treadmills, elliptical trainers, cross trainers, rowing machines, stair climbers, arc trainers, upright and recumbent bikes, plus a full line of strength and resistance equipment and an extensive free weight area. Whatever you’ve built your routine on, it’s here. And there’s more. Stages Studio Pro Plus Cycling. A Pilates Reformer Training Studio. A dedicated functional training space on the turf. 

Take a free tour. You’ll feel the difference from the moment you walk in.

Our popular Group Exercise program is another big reason why Park Fitness is not your typical workout place. Classes are held in the Gymnasium (that’s right, we have a full gym and a track), in the specialized Group Ex Studio, Mind/Body Studio, and Spin Studio. We have Aqua Fit classes—because we have a pool!—and we hold some group classes outdoors, where nature helps move your personal growth to a whole new level. Take a deep breath. That’s fresh air!

“Park Fitness is so much more than a name change,” said Jodi DiTomasso, our long-time Fitness Manager—who members all know as the heart and soul of the facility. “It represents a new era in our commitment to the health and well-being of the community. Our robust group exercise program features awide range of formats, from yoga to high-intensity interval training.” You can add these classes to your basic membership, or sign up for them as exclusive offerings. Jodi added, “Flexibility and variety are key to creating a routine you’ll stay with as you get healthier and stronger.” 

“Whether you’re shooting hoops on our two full-court basketball courts, swimming laps in our 6-lane 25-yard pool, or joining one of our group exercise classes, there’s truly no better place to meet friends and stay active together,” said Jodi.

From the warm welcome as you come into the lobby, to the friendly assistance from our team members with memberships, program registrations, and daily drop-ins, to the expertise of our instructors, Park Fitness will be the place where you connect healthy activities and socialization on the road to a better life. Start your journey today on our website, with a call, or a tour. 

Until next time… we’ll see you around the parks!

July is Park and Recreation Month, and this year’s theme, “Build Together, Play Together“, is all about celebrating how parks create spaces where everyone belongs. From quiet moments in nature to big community events, parks and recreation connect us, inspire us, and help us thrive.

At the June 25 meeting, the Park Board of Commissioners approved a resolution declaring July as Parks & Recreation Month in Highland Park, recognizing the many ways parks, facilities, and programs enrich our community.

Here in Highland Park, we’re proud to offer parks, facilities, and programs that make our community stronger, more vibrant, and more connected. Here are ten ways parks and recreation bring us together and ideas for how you can celebrate this July and beyond.

1. Creating Shared Spaces for All
   • Our parks and facilities welcome every age and ability, offering spaces where everyone can come together.
   • Family Swim Night is a perfect way to splash, play, and make summer memories with your loved ones.
2. Supporting Health and Wellness
   • Fitness classes, sports courts, and miles of trails help keep our community active and healthy.
   • Grab a paddle and play some pickleball at one of our 16 courts at Danny Cunniff Park.
3. Bringing Neighbors Together Through Events
   • Parks are home to annual celebrations that bring neighbors together.
   • Don’t Miss: Independence Fest our biggest event of the summer! Celebrate Independence Day with family activities, food, and community spirit.
4. Cultivating Environmental Stewardship
   • Our parks inspire everyone to care for nature. Volunteer programs, educational events, and conservation initiatives help protect our green spaces.
   • Help with a volunteer day or join a nature program at Heller Nature Center.
5. Creating Opportunities for Lifelong Learning
   • Parks and programs spark curiosity and creativity at every age.
   • Join a naturalist to at our Under the Sun event to explore what makes the sun unique through hands-on experiments and sunny art projects.
6. Supporting Mental Well-being
   • Our green spaces offer a place to relax, reflect, and recharge.
   • Take a walk or fish at The Preserve at Highland Park.
7. Fostering Inclusion and Belonging
   • From accessible facilities to welcoming programs, our parks are designed for everyone to feel included.
   • Try a new class or bring a friend to explore a park you haven’t visited before through our interactive map!
8. Encouraging Outdoor Play and Adventure
   • Adventure is waiting just outside your door. Whether you’re biking, hiking, or just exploring, there’s always something new to discover.
   • Make a summer bucket list of trails and parks to visit.
9. Strengthening Local Connections
   • Parks are the perfect place to meet neighbors and build friendships, whether during a casual meetup or a community project.
   • Host a picnic with neighbors in your favorite park.
10. Celebrating Community Spirit
    • Parks thrive thanks to the energy and involvement of our community.
    • Come cheer on our summer campers as they take part in the World’s Largest Pickleball Lesson! It’s a great way to celebrate recreation and community together.

This July, we invite you to explore, play, and connect. Together, we’re building a community where everyone feels at home. Let’s celebrate Park and Recreation Month and everything that makes Highland Park special!

We’ve got great news for golfers and everyone who loves to enjoy a delicious meal while watching a gorgeous sunset. Intrigued?

Today is opening day for the brand new restaurant at Sunset Valley Golf Club. If you’re a golfer, you already know that the unique British Heathland design makes it one of the finest, must-play courses in Chicagoland. And now, with the opening of The Clubhouse at Sunset Valley, we are a destination for Highland Park foodies who appreciate enjoying chef-designed meals and obsessively good service, all provided in a unique environment.

The Clubhouse is the latest creation of Relish Catering Kitchen, well-known for its “from scratch” approach to creative cooking. Their innovative, elevated versions of your favorites—juicy burgers, specialty sandwiches, decadent salads—are available for a quick lunch inside or at the bar, and we make sure every golfer gets the attention they deserve at a classic 18-hole course. Beyond the best versions of everything you’d expect to find on the menu, prepare to be surprised by the unexpected—Pulled BBQ Chicken and other seasonal chef specials. Our reputation for extraordinary Club-Level service is now matched by an exceptional dining experience.

What sets this restaurant apart from anything else on the North Shore is the opportunity to dine outdoors, enjoying the dramatic, panoramic views the course affords. Our expansive trellised patio and veranda include comfortable seating and conversation-enhancing fire pits. It’s a relaxing spot for lunch and dinner, and the stunning sunsets are an off-menu extra special treat when sipping your favorite beverage or one of our signature cocktails.

The Clubhouse is also available to book for your special event, another specialty of the experts at Relish. The combination of a custom designed menu and white-glove service always exceeds expectations and garners rave reviews every time. The staff at Sunset Valley is ready to talk to you and walk you through this beautiful venue.

It’s opening day… and you are cordially invited to experience The Clubhouse at Sunset Valley Golf Club. We’ve designed it for your dining pleasure. Let us show you to your table!

The Clubhouse at Sunset Valley Golf Club Hours:
Mon: 8am-8pm
Tue-Thu: 7am-9pm
Fri-Sat: 6:30am-9pm
Sun: 6:30am-8pm

1390 Sunset Road
Highland Park, IL 60035
(847) 432-7140

Before heading out to a Park District of Highland Park facility on July 4, be sure to check our hours listed below. Learn about Highland Park Independence events here.

Part of the charm of living in Highland Park and our neighboring suburbs is being outside, enjoying the beautiful parks, green spaces, walking trails, and, of course, the beaches along Lake Michigan. The Park District of Highland Park is responsible for maintaining over 750 acres, including the park lands, playgrounds, ballfields, open spaces, beaches, and the majestic bluffs that add to the quality of life for our residents and visitors. It’s a responsibility our dedicated team in the Parks Department takes very seriously, and the results of their efforts are on display every day, week after week, season after season, all year round. While you might not notice them, the impact of what they provide for the District and the community is undeniable. In a previous story, we told you a bit about the people who create the plans and projects. Now, we’d like to introduce the people who make sure that wherever you go in the Park District, you and your family have a great time in the great outdoors.

The team is led by our Director of Parks, Dan Voss, who has been in the business of keeping things green and growing for 28 years. “Essentially, we’re responsible for the maintenance of anything outdoors at the Park District,” said Dan. “I’ve always loved working outside, and what we all do here is fulfilling because it benefits the whole community.” You’ll hear that a lot when you talk to Parks & Recreation professionals. It’s a big part of why pros like Dan and the members of his team have been with this District for so many years.

The team includes Parks Operations Manager Brian Dumas, Parks Landscape Manager Glenn Nance, and Natural Areas Manager Liz Ricketts. They are all quite modest about their roles, but when you dig in a little deeper the extent of what each of their jobs entails keeps expanding.

Glenn says, “I oversee grass, trees and plants.” Sounds simple enough until you look around and realize how many trees he’s actually talking about. For example, included in the renovation project that’s being completed at the Recreation Center there are 81 new trees. Plus 470 new shrubs. Glenn, Liz, and Dan worked with the projects department to come up with a plan that would be beautiful year-round. “Even though it’s next to The Preserve, using a lot of prairie plants just wasn’t feasible because those plants won’t present well year round that close to a road,” said Dan.

Glenn is also responsible for the large fleet of park district vehicles and all of the landscape-specific equipment, from mowers to trimmers. He’s been in Parks & Rec for 25 years, and his expertise is helping to create the future of how our park spaces will be maintained. “We’re planning for more electric vehicles, and that also means planning for charging stations across the District,” said Glenn.

Along with Brian and Liz, Glenn manages a support staff of 26 people with the myriad skills required to handle every job, large and small, from keeping water fountains flowing to keeping healthy trees growing.

Proper restoration techniques are a fundamental part of natural areas management in the Park District. Liz Ricketts gave us an overview. “The natural areas program manages  350 acres across the district. Of course, we have large and small parcels, more significantly at Heller Nature Center and The Preserve of Highland Park. There’s a wide variety of habitat types within that acreage as well, and our management of those areas strives to establish and maintain high-quality ecosystems that support our native vegetation, which in turn supports the animals and pollinators that rely on them. We’re fortunate to have support and help from volunteers in the community, from school age kids and teens to adults, families, and local organizations including Eagle Scouts.”

If you want to find out more and be a part of managing and maintaining the health of your parks and green spaces, talk with Liz. All are welcome!

At Heller, Highmoor Nature Preserve, and The Preserve, the Natural Areas staff and volunteers also monitor bluebirds and rare plant species like the dog violet (Viola conspersa). What makes a plant rare is often the habitat that it’s found in, so a more conservative habitat is required for those plants.” There’s also monitoring of the plants and animals that are specific to the lakefront. “As part of a long-running project with the Shedd Aquarium, every spring we monitor the migration of a native fish, the white sucker, from the lake into the ravine streams.” Restoration of the bluffs overlooking Millard Beach is another long-term project the team has been working on.

Controlled burns in spring and fall—between 10 and 20 acres across the district—lead to the growing season. “We seed after a burn because those are the best conditions for seed-to-soil contact,” said Liz. “And we have two large projects this season: refreshing the entryway plantings at Heller Nature Center and expanding a rain garden at Deer Creek Racquet Club. After removing invasive species like Buckthorn and other woody plants during the winter months, throughout the growing season we focus on the management of herbaceous invasive species like garlic mustard, phragmites, and reed canary grass.

Playgrounds and ball fields are likely the places you are more aware of as you enjoy the parks, and Brian Dumas oversees making sure those are not only beautiful to look at, but safe to play on as well.

With more than 25 years in the business, and holding a Certified Playground Safety Inspector (CPSI) Certification from the National Recreation and Park Association, Brian is another one of those quiet experts who also manages the Parks Department staff. He’s responsible for opening up all of our seasonal facilities. “Ball fields, tennis courts, pickleball courts, satellite bathrooms, the lakefront, to make sure that everything is ready to go at the start of those seasons.” Perfectly groomed ballfield? Slides and swings and rocket ships all working? Bathrooms clean? Boardwalks and beachfront stairs repaired and safe? Thank Brian for all of those. “We have 22 playgrounds across the District, and ballfields in 14 parks,” he said. “It’s always so nice to hear from residents that they appreciate what we do.”

From dog violets in the wild to white suckers swimming upstream, from manicured baseball diamonds to the woods and walking trails that wind through your favorite place to relax, there’s always so much more going on here than meets the eye. And now you know a little about the people who work year-round—mostly behind the scenes—to make sure that everyone in our Highland Park community can enjoy being outdoors at their Park District.

Have a question about a park, playground, a ballfield, a beach or a bluff? The answer is likely on our website.

Until next time… See you around the parks!

May 12: Finance Committee Meeting

Staff provided a purchase recommendation to replace wireless access point equipment. 

Staff provided a programming, and operations update for Club Pickle and Padel, highlighting the membership and permanent court time options. Staff also compared budgeted programming revenues and expenses with estimated figures for the fall of 2025.

Staff reviewed the two bids for the pickleball court divider and enclosure system purchase and installation. Staff recommended rejecting both bids and requested the Park Board allow the Executive Director to enter into a Sole Source Purchase Agreement instead.

Staff reviewed the natural gas bids and provided contract recommendations. 

May 7: Special Workshop Meeting of the Park Board

The Park Board approved to reject the 2025 Pickleball Court Divider and Enclosure System Purchase and Installation Bids, to ratify the 2024 Club Pickel and Padel Change Order No. 9, to approve Resolution 2025-07 Authorizing a Sole Source Contract for Procurement of InfinityGlass Pickleball Court Divider and Enclosure System, to approve the Interstate Gas Supply, LLC Commercial Gas Sales Agreement for  Natural Gas bid via Alternative Utility Services, Inc. (AUS Energy), to approve the Mansfield Power and Gas, LLC Master Commercial Gas Sales Agreement     for  Natural Gas bid via Alternative Utility Services, Inc. (AUS Energy), to approve the Wireless Access Point Agreement, to approve the Settlement Agreement with I.B. Storey.

The Park Board of Commissioners adopted the Beach and Boating Safety Week Proclamation declaring May 17 – 23, 2025 as Highland Park Beach and Boasting Safety Week.

The Park Board of Commissioners approved Resolution 2025-06 A Declaration Honoring Brian Kaplan for his Contributions to the Park District of Highland Park While Serving as a Park Board Commissioner from May 2011 through June 2024, Resolution 2025-05 – A Declaration Honoring Barnett Ruttenberg for his Contributions to the Park District of Highland Park While Serving as a Park Board Commissioner from May 2013 through May 2025, and 2025-04 – A Declaration Honoring Calvin Bernstein for his Contributions to the Park District of Highland Park While Serving as a Park Board Commissioner from May 2007 through May 2025.

May 13: Finance Committee Meeting

During excavation for the new recreation facility at West Ridge Park, soil testing was completed, and it was recommended to install waterproofing and additional drainage to avoid pooling in the gymnastics foam pit.  Staff reviewed the total change to the contract for this work.

Staff reviewed the bid results and provided contract recommendations for the 2025 Larry Fink Batting Cage and the 2025. The Recreation Center of Highland Park Landscape Installation bid was awarded a contract to Autus Group, LLC dba Property First by the Park Board on April 23, 2025. The contractor is not proceeding with the project, so staff recommended the second lowest bidder who had favorable references and the Park District has worked with in the past, Langton Group.

May 21: Annual Meeting of the Park Board

Commissioner Grossberg was elected for President of the Park Board and Commissioner Freeman was elected for Vice President.

Executive Director Romes was appointed as Secretary to the Park Board, Coordinator Hejnowski was appointed as Assistant Secretary acting under the general supervisor of the Secretary, Director Peters was appointed as Treasurer, Director Hall was appointed as the District’s IMRF authorized agent, Executive Director Romes, Director Hall, and Coordinator Hejnowski were appointed as Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) Officers, Executive Director Romes and Coordinator Hejnowski were appointed as Open Meetings Act (OMA) Officers, Executive Director Romes was appointed as the American With Disabilities Act Coordinator (ADA), Sikich, LLP was appointed as the District’s auditor, and Ancel Glink was appointed as the District’s attorney.

May 21: Regular Meeting of the Park Board

Fitness Manager, Jodi DiTomasso, received a Resolution Honoring her for performing lifesaving CPR to a patron at the Recreation Center of Highland Park.

The Park Board approved the 2025 Larry Fink Park Batting Cage, the 2025 Recreation Center of Highland Park Parking Lot Landscape Installation, Ordinance 2025-07- Authorizing and Providing for the Conveyance or Sale of Surplus Personal Property, the Ratification of PCCO #8: Waterproofing/Drainage at Pits in Gymnasium, New Recreation Facility at West Ridge Park and the New Restaurant License Agreement for Sunset Valley Golf Club.

The Park District is currently in the engagement phase of the three-phased approach to update the Masterplan. The Lakota Group has been hosting community focus groups and taking public input online and at predetermined special events. A survey was released to targeted community members this month. The same survey will be released to the entire community in June. 

Staff provided construction project updates for the New Facility and Site Improvements at West Ridge Park, Club Pickle and Padel, South Boat Storage Restoration at Park Avenue, improvements at Sunset Woods Park, renovations at Old Elm and Port Clinton Playgrounds, and the renovations to the Larry Fink Park Tot Lot.

Staff provided an annual report on Recreation Programming comparing budgeted vs actual programming, league, and camp enrollments and revenues and expenses.

This summer, travel the globe without leaving your neighborhood! Pop Up in the Park is a free, vibrant series that brings the world to your local park, celebrating the beauty of diverse cultures through music, dance, crafts, and hands-on activities. Each event offers a unique experience, inviting you to explore different traditions and creative expressions from around the world. Whether you’re swaying to international rhythms, creating global-inspired art, or learning new dances, there’s something for everyone. Gather with friends and family for a series of fun, multicultural adventures that celebrate the spirit of community, creativity, and connection!

Poland

Tuesday, June 10 • 4-5pm

Explore Poland: Music, crafting and history with more

All Ages

Location: Lincoln Park (1280 Green Bay Road)

Learn More

Brazil

Friday, June 20 • 6-7pm

Explore Brazil: Interactive demonstration by Axe Capoeira and crafts

All Ages

Location: Danny Cunniff Park (2700 Trail Way)

NYC Broadway

Thursday, July 10 • 4-10pm

Explore NYC Broadway: Ravinia district food truck Thursday, showing off Hairspray

All Ages

Location: Jens Jensen Park (486 Roger Williams Ave)

Learn More

New Orleans

Sunday, July 27 • 2-3:30pm

Explore New Orleans: New Orleans-style jazz band

All Ages

Location: Larry Fink Memorial Park (1377 Clavey Road)

Learn More

Native American

Wednesday, August 6 • 4-5pm

Explore Native American Culture: Music, crafting and history with Le’Ana Asher

All Ages

Location: Moraine Park (2501 Sheridan Road)

Nordic

Saturday, August 16 • 11-12pm

Explore Nordic Culture: Music, crafts, face painting and a visit with Elsa and Anna from Frozen

All Ages

Location: The Preserve of Highland Park (1207 Park Ave West)

Polynesian

Friday, September 5 • 6:30-10pm

Explore Polynesian Culture : Performance by Barefoot Hawaiians, Da Local Boy Food Truck, showing of Lilo and Stitch

All Ages

Location: Sunset Woods Park (1801 Sunset Road)

This fall, it’s more than just a game—it’s a chance to build confidence, strength, and leadership through sports. Registration is now open for our Girls Fall Sports programs, including Basketball, Softball, Volleyball, and Flag Football.

Our leagues are designed to empower girls both on and off the field. Through teamwork, skill-building, and positive coaching, players gain more than athletic ability. They gain self-belief, friendships, and a strong sense of community.

Programs between in September/October. Register today!

string(8) "query_id"
int(28103)

string(8) "query_id"
int(28928)

string(8) "query_id"
int(28929)

Explore the trails in a whole new way with our new app! This interactive augmented reality game provides nature-themed challenges on your phone as you walk along the trails. Download the app and Heller’s “Spring into Nature!” Mission, and you’re ready for action! Complete the fun, educational challenges, games, and puzzles to earn rewards and prizes—fun for kids and adults alike!

Join us on Saturday, May 17 from 10am-Noon for a special launch event where you can play the game, explore the trails, and win prizes!