Now-Mon, Oct 21 – Recreation Center of Highland Park: The locker rooms will be closed for renovation. During the closure, temporary changing areas off the pool deck will be provided. Learn more.

Beginning Mon, Oct 7 – Recreation Center of Highland Park: The City of Highland Park begins Phase 2 of the Recreation Center parking lot project. This new construction phase will focus on the west lot, the building turn-around drive, and the west ADA parking area. Learn more.

Old Elm Playground Renovation

Are any trees going to be removed?

Five trees on the West side of the playground will be removed as part of this project.

What is the proposed playground surfacing for the new playground?

The playground will have new woodchip surfacing. Curbs will be added around the playgrounds, to help keep the woodchips in place. The tot lot will have a small section of pour-in-place surfacing surrounding the embankment slide (slide built into a hill).

When will the playground be closed?

The playground will be closed beginning in August of 2024 until November 2024.

Why are the 2-5 and 5-12 playgrounds being separated?

The design with two separated playgrounds for the different age groups improves  safety for users and to maximizes the efficiency of the space.

Why are the ballfields being removed and replaced?

The fields have reached their useful life. Neither the north or south ballfields are used for programming and the District understands there is limited use. As part of this project, the South ballfield will be completely removed and restored to grass. The North ballfield backstop will be replaced and the infield will be restored to grass.

Will any new trees be planted?

Yes, four new trees will be planted around the playground area.

Will the evergreens screening the playground be removed?

If funding allows, the evergreens will be removed and replaced with deciduous conifers. The Park District is exploring the option to remove the evergreens because their health is declining.

Will the path to the tennis court from the playground be extended as part of this project?

Yes, the new path will end at the tennis court gates, extending the existing path that currently ends  a few feet before the gate.

Will there still be sand play?

No, the sand play element will be removed as part of this renovation. The water spigot near the existing sand play feature will also be removed.