Between Aug 2020 and Feb 2021, over 350 community members participated in the Sunset Woods Park Playground and Master Plan concept planning effort.
The playground renovation project is underway.
The Park Board of Commissioners approved the Sunset Woods Park Maser Plan on December 16, 2021. The plan is conceptual and will be used as a resource to guide future development and identify funding. At the time of approval, the majority of the proposed improvements outlined in the plan are unfunded. If funding were to be identified, the improvement would need to be designed and engineered prior to construction. If funding is secured, opportunities to participate in those efforts will be shared with the community.
Complete this form if you would like to receive project updates or if you have any questions.
We are looking forward to contributing to the health and enjoyment of our community!
Plans call for designated habitat areas in the north end of The Preserve reserved for walking and leisure biking. We are hopeful these areas will become popular with resident and migratory birds in the area.
The goal of the Preserve project is to create a unique passive natural recreation area for our community. The property also presents an opportunity to enhance stormwater storage capacity on the site to help alleviate flooding for our residents, especially those residing in the Skokie River watershed. In the near term, our plans to restore wetland habitat and native vegetation will help with both water quality and in reducing flooding on the site.
The Park District has worked with the Lake County Stormwater Management Commission and the City of Highland Park to seek grant funding for flood storage areas that would also enhance the natural habitat and enjoyment of the site. We will work in partnership with these agencies to preserve the essence of the natural areas, public spaces and trails being implemented in the community park project.
Passive recreation areas highlight the natural habitat and provide low intensity amenities such as picnic areas, benches, and trails.
Major construction began in December 2020 and was completed in December 2021. An opening celebration is planned for May 2022.
There are several ponds on the property, and we heard from our Advisory Committee that access to water was key. Plans call for several ways to engage with the ponds and wetlands on the property, including a water overlook and designated viewing areas. Fishing will be allowed in designated areas. Current plans do not include boating. Swimming will not be allowed.
Like other District parks, the community park will be open from dawn to dusk.
The Preserve will provide a one of a kind passive recreational experience for walking, leisure biking, running, playing and enjoying the outdoors. It features green spaces for gathering interwoven with natural areas, native gardens and restored woods. Park pathways will connect the community to the Recreation Center of Highland Park, the Highland Park Golf Learning Center and Skokie River Woods, as well as links between neighborhoods and downtown Highland Park.
The District supports transportation alternatives, including bikes! While walking is the anticipated primary use of the interior trails, there will be a connector path across the property that is shared use for bikes and pedestrians. The designated City bike trail already runs along the east side of the property, connecting Park Avenue West and Half Day Road. Bike racks will be provided.
We’ve heard from many residents who already enjoy cross country skiing on our park properties! At The Preserve, we have plans to create mown trails that can be used for cross country runners in the warm months and cross-country skiers when there is snow. Also, mown edges on major park trails will provide additional pathways for both.
Dogs on leash will be allowed to use the site. Dog walkers are responsible for cleaning up after pets. Dog bag dispensers like those found at other District parks will be provided.
In the future, we hope that picnicking on the park greens will be a popular activity! Designated picnic areas taking advantage of tree cover for shade and vistas for great views are in the plans. Trash cans, picnic tables and bench seating will be provided, as will routine park maintenance. At that time, groups of 12 or more wishing to use park grounds or picnic in the park will be required to secure a permit prior to their visit.
Plans are underway to create an indoor accessible restroom near the park entrance.
The Park District of Highland Park began the initial stages of converting the former golf course on the Highland Park Country Club (HPCC) property with the formal acquisition of the property from the City of Highland Park in fall 2018. Already a protected open space, the 100-acre parcel featured promising woodland, wetland and riverfront habitat areas, as well as interesting golf-related topography and features such as sand traps, meandering cart paths and river crossings. It was a rare opportunity for the community to have such a large open space available for passive recreation. It also met a need for residents to have access to additional walking and biking trails identified in a Park District Community Attitude and Interest Survey from 2009 and 2013.
A citizen advisory committee was formed in fall 2018 to brainstorm a master plan that could bring these elements together. In June 2019, following a community survey, public open houses and numerous committee meetings, the group presented its final plan that prioritized the natural environment and provided nature-based play opportunities and places to relax and explore in the outdoors, close to home. The resulting master plan was approved by elected officials of the Lake County Forest Preserve District, City of Highland Park and Park District board of commissioners in April 2020.
Meantime, nearly 50 acres were seeded with native plants in planting zones that reflect the underlying soils and water conditions. Enhanced planting areas of live plants, especially in wetland and shoreline areas, provide structure and a sense of stewardship.
With funding from the IDNR’s OSLAD program approved in August 2020, the project moved into construction phase. On September 22, 2020, the Park Board approved Team REIL’s construction bid for $1,204,290 to complete amenities, trail work and restoration of the shoreline of the North Pond, a project funded through IEPA 319 grant with the assistance of the Lake County Stormwater Management Commission.
Funding for this project is provided in part by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency through Section 319 of the Clean Water Act.
| Description | Dates |
|---|---|
| Construction Begins/Site Preparation | October 2020 |
| Phase I: Shoreline Grading, Overlooks, Trail Prep | November - December 2020 |
| Phase II: Ongoing Trail Work, Connecting Paths and Amenities | January - April 2021 |
| Phase III: Plantings, Final Trail Work, Completion of Amenities | May - October 2021 |
| Phase IV: Final Details and Restoration | November - December 2021 |
| Opening Celebration | June 2022 |
It’s apple blossom season at The Preserve! Providing early blooming flowers is key to helping pollinators get through the lean months of spring. Five varieties of apple trees in the Pollinator Garden give honeybees a welcome boost.
Providing habitat for native birds is a key goal at The Preserve. We are excited to report that the American Woodcock (also known as the Timberdoodle) has been spotted nesting in grassy areas on the grounds! This stout little bird has a remarkable courtship display involving spiraling upwards of 250 to 300 feet and rapidly descending to impress prospective partners.
Please help us protect these birds and all wildlife by keeping dogs on leash at The Preserve.
It’s official! The Preserve is host to two Monarch Waystations — gardens that provide milkweed, nectar plants and shelter for Monarch butterflies throughout their annual cycle of reproduction and migration. The Demonstration Garden behind the Recreation Center/Highland Park Country Club and the Pollinator Garden located east of the North Pond Overlook were both certified by MonarchWatch.org as part of the regional effort to provide habitat in public and private spaces.
Portions of The Preserve natural areas were burned on March 16 to encourage early spring growth of native plants and discourage weeds.
Winter is a quiet time to enjoy The Preserve. New interpretive signs have been installed for each of the park’s amenity areas. Welcome signs with maps and trail markers are ready to be installed once the weather allows.
Here’s a fun way to learn more about The Preserve. Temporary informational signs have been posted throughout the park. Point your phone camera at the QR Code to download a colorful PDF with details about the park’s new amenities. See if you can find all 8! (Hint: there’s a map included at the Entry Plaza).
New journeys are possible now that the “Connector Trail” linking both sides of The Preserve across the Skokie River is complete! The path heads west across a footbridge to a wetland overlook (still under construction) and joins with the Gateway Path leading south to the Golf Learning Center.
Funding for the Connector Trail is provided in part by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources OSLAD Program.
Exciting developments at The Preserve this week as the turtle climbing mounds gained their colorful shells! The two play surfaces represent spotted and painted turtles. Signage will be installed with turtle facts and photos. Picnic tables and a sand play table will add to the enjoyment.
Funding for the Sand Play area is provided in part by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources OSLAD Program.
The new Turtle Meadow at the far north end of The Preserve is a quiet area dedicated to turtle nesting habitat. Shayna Zavell, a Highland Park resident, has been instrumental in researching their needs and helping prepare the right conditions, including full sun and sandy soil. Old sand traps on the former golf course fit this bill and have been repurposed by adding sand and drought-tolerant plantings. In the future, we hope to invite volunteers to monitor the turtle’s progress. For more information, contact [email protected].
The Turtle Meadow is funded in part through the Illinois Department of Natural Resources OSLAD program.
This week, parts of The Preserve are looking a little greener than usual as contractors re-seeded areas along pathways and around new features to restore turf grass and native plants. A special green mulch mixed with water is spread over the top of the seeds to protect them as they grow. We ask that visitors give the new areas a chance to get established by staying on paths and keeping dogs on leashes!
One of the most anticipated features of The Preserve is the North Pond Overlook. This accessible platform, delivered on-site this week, will give visitors a new perspective on the many kinds of wildlife including wetland birds, turtles, and fish that enjoy this large pond.
Funding for the North Pond Overlook is provided in part through the Illinois Department of Natural Resources OSLAD program.
A significant milestone has been achieved by completing the path paving on the east side of The Preserve. Crews are currently restoring the path edges with turf and native seeds that can be mown to create additional walking space and maintain a trim look in our native areas.
Funding for improved pathways is provided in part through the Illinois Department of Natural Resources OSLAD program.
Natural Areas volunteers welcomed Eleanor Schumacher, Project Wingspan Illinois State Coordinator, in a visit to The Preserve this week.
The Preserve is one of many sites where the seeds of pollinator-friendly plants are collected and then distributed around the Midwest region to create additional habitats for bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. For more information on Project Wingspan, click here.
Contractors will be busy at The Preserve on September 2 and 3 with paving services planned throughout the park. Visitors are reminded to stay on designated paths and be aware of truck activity in the Recreation Center parking lot.
Funding for improved pathways is provided in part through the Illinois Department of Natural Resources OSLAD program.
Natural Areas volunteers are busy collecting seeds as part of the District’s commitment to the Illinois Monarch Project. Seeds from pollinator-friendly native plants will be processed and shared with other partners through Project Wingspan. The goal of both programs is to increase habitat for butterflies and other pollinators throughout the region.
Two key elements of The Preserve trail network were dug this week. The final leg of the Connector Trail that connects the park across the Skokie River was prepared for surfacing as was a short but crucial segment linking visitors to the gazebo and ponds near the Recreation Center. Funding for trail restoration and development is provided in part through the Illinois Department of Natural Resources OSLAD program.
Five varieties of apple trees were installed in the pollinator garden this week. Funding for the pollinator garden is provided in part through the Illinois Department of Natural Resources OSLAD program.
There was a lot of activity at The Preserve this week as contractors began to prepare pathways for restoration throughout the site. When the park is complete, there will be several major looping paths and access across the Skokie River to the adjacent Golf Learning Center. Funding for path work is provided in part through the Illinois Department of Natural Resources OSLAD program.
Maintenance continues at The Preserve to help establish the many new landscape features. There are six areas set aside as “greens” of mown grass where games, picnics and events can take place in the future. Turtle Meadow, Savanna Picnic Grove, The Green, The Gazebo, Entry Plaza/Group Exercise and Reflection Green are all managed with ongoing mowing by Parks crews. Crews also keep mown edges on paths that are currently open for walking. In other areas, mowing is restricted to provide habitat and a transition between greens and natural areas, like “rough” on a golf course. A side benefit of these “no-mow” areas has been that oak tree seedlings have taken root to provide us with new trees in the future!
Due to construction taking place in the new Nature Maze, the inner loop of the red trail will be closed. An updated trail map is found here. We apologize for any inconvenience. Watch this space for updates and please remember to stay on designated paths for safety.
More than a dozen species of pollinator-friendly plants (over 600 in all) have been installed in the new Pollinator Garden at The Preserve. These groupings will provide a constant source of pollen (protein) and nectar (carbohydrate) for butterflies, bees, moths, and other pollinators. Funding for the Pollinator Garden is provided in part through the Illinois Department of Natural Resources OSLAD program.
This week at The Preserve, crews planted ribbons of native plants leading to the North Pond as part of a state-level effort to make our waterways clean and healthy. Hundreds of plants were installed along two water pathways called swales. Swales are areas where water concentrates as it flows across the property during storms. Eventually this water makes its way to the North Branch of the Chicago River (Skokie River) which runs along the west side of the property. Native plants help reduce soil erosion which can lead to water pollution and filter pollutants such as excess phosphorus and nitrogen. This work was funded in part by the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency through Section 319 of the Clean Water Act.
Many pollinator-friendly plants were blooming at The Preserve this week. Prairie Smoke is showing off its feathery flowers and receiving bee visitors in the native plant demonstration garden. Last Saturday, volunteers from Gratitude Generation helped plant 200 stems of milkweed and other plants donated by Project Wingspan. We look forward to seeing what those blooms bring!
Several seating areas were under construction this week at The Preserve. One was the stone council ring which takes center stage in the park’s new Nature Maze. This area will be planted with native shrubs to form a fun and accessible pathway for exploration as well as a shady spot to gather and enjoy the sights in the adjacent oak savanna. Work also began on the Entry Plaza with permeable pavers and stone seating. Funding for both these elements is provided in part through the Illinois Department of Natural Resources OSLAD program.
Work began on the North Pond Overlook this week at The Preserve. In the future, visitors will be able to enjoy water’s edge views of the 5-acre pond and the many species of birds that are found there. At the north end of the pond, a view seating area is taking shape, carved into the hillside of a former golf green. The pond is a major feature in the landscape and The Preserve advisory committee sought to build in several ways to enjoy it.
Work started on the special amenities at The Preserve, construction of new connecting trails, and the north loop of the red trail reopened. The Sand Play Area amenity will feature a family-friendly picnic area where kids can climb molded turtle sculptures and sift in the sand while looking for turtle tracks and other “fossils.” New trails were completed that will provide additional loop options for park visitors. While the main park is closed for construction, designated trails remain open. Please remember to keep dogs leashed and be courteous of our neighbors.
Due to the construction of connecting trails, a portion of the north loop of the red trail at The Preserve is closed. Once the new access path is complete (anticipated within two weeks) the trail will be reopened. For a map of the closed trail, click here.
Grading and initial planting around the North Pond shoreline is complete. Work has begun on the Connector Trail that will link The Preserve property on both sides of the Skokie River. Overlooks for the North Pond and Gateway Path (on the west side of the river) have been manufactured (off-site) and will be delivered for installation soon.
A new path extension linking The Preserve to the existing north-south Highland Park Trail is now open. This new connection gives users of the popular trail access to additional paths in The Preserve during construction. Final surfacing will be completed in spring along with other path improvements. Click here for a trail map. At the same time, crews are working on the North Pond overlook and shoreline restoration. Seeding of native plants around the shoreline will provide a buffer to help with water quality and additional habitat.
Construction is expected to begin November 1, 2020! When completed, The Preserve’s amenities will include improved pathways, a pond overlook, gardens, seating, play areas, signage and a restored north pond shoreline with native plantings and vegetated swales. During construction, some paths will be closed. Several looping trails will remain open to visitors, as will the North-South Bike Trail on the property’s east edge. Click here for a trail map.
The Preserve took a major step forward as the Park District of Highland Park Board of Commissioners awarded a construction contract in the amount of $1,204,290 to Team REIL Inc. of Union IL, following a competitive bid process. Construction is scheduled to begin in November.
The Illinois Governor’s Office announced that Highland Park was among those agencies selected for funding for the Illinois Open Space Land Acquisition and Development (OSLAD) grant. As a result, the Park District will receive $400,000 that will be used for trail work, park amenities, landscaping and signage at Community Park.
In December 2019, the Community Park Master Plan was updated to reflect the Park District’s receipt of grant funding for Shoreline Restoration of the North Pond made available through the Lake County Stormwater Management Commission. Funding for this portion of the project is provided, in part, by the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency through Section 319 of the Clean Water Act.
Interested residents joined Park District staff, advisory committee members and Park Board to view final details of the Community Park plans. Advisory committee member Peggy Luce gave an informative wrap-up of the planning process and Hey and Associates made a powerpoint presentation to highlight the key elements of the new park.
The Park District held the final Advisory Committee meeting to share details of design including materials, plantings and form for key elements on the property. Next steps will include a public meeting and approval by the Park District Board of Directors.
As design plans take shape, the Park Board asked staff to begin outlining approaches to naming the new park. Until a formal name is adopted, we will begin to refer to the property as the community park at the Recreation Center of Highland Park.
More than 50 guests came to the District’s public open house on January 15 to view concept plans for the project. Attendees had a chance to watch a video overview of the project, see renderings depicting proposed nature play, paths, gathering areas, as well as a chance to review maps that show how those elements are arrayed in activity zones throughout the park. Materials that sparked the senses were on display to highlight the areas for quiet enjoyment and habitat that are found throughout the property. Staff gathered input from participants at four different stations. The information collected will be used to guide the design of the park.
On December 4, Park District staff presented an updated version of the Highland Park Country Club (HPCC) property conceptual plan to the Board of Directors. Watch for information about our public meeting in January when we will invite the community to share their thoughts on the conceptual plans.
The Advisory Committee met on Wed., Nov 14 to review and provide input on the project concept plan. Below are highlights of the plan:
Vision – to provide our community with an inter-generational experience with multiple levels of activity and engagement in the surrounding natural habitats.
Theme – “Play in Nature”
Foundation – green play spaces surrounded by thoughtfully arranged native plantings that reflect the functionality of the land.
Amenities – spring organically from the land and feature simple ideas for augmenting enjoyment of desired activities of walking, leisure biking, cross country skiing and running, access to water, picnicking, and exploring nature.
Northern Zone – Privacy is created with grassland habitat for birds
Middle Zone – an area for family and group activity, that takes advantage of water features and access to parking in the Golf Learning Center
Southern Zone (closest to the Recreation Center) – answers community desire for play close into the building that might be especially attractive to users of the recreation center, future senior center and also families with young children.
As we enter the final stages of negotiation for the purchase, the Park District of Highland Park is beginning the initial stages of converting the Highland Park Country Club (HPCC) property to a new unique natural area and passive recreation park. Seeding of native grasses and flowers is planned for late fall in areas identified as best suited for habitat. The first Advisory Committee meeting was held on September 26. The committee provided feedback on potential recreational opportunities for the site, gained direction to ensure that our plan addresses the needs of our diverse community and neighbors, and heard examples of other sites that can serve as inspiration for the planning team.
To view the presentation from the Advisory Committee meeting, click here.
Yes, please fill out the contact us form or email [email protected] and include your name and email address.
The master plan will inform future development at the park. Projects recommended in the master plan will be considered during future year budgeting. With the plan, the Park District can begin to apply for funding opportunities such as the Open Space and Land Acquisition and Development Grant Program offered by the State of Illinois.
No. The playground project will replace a tot lot and an elementary playground with new equipment for both age groups.
The Master Plan may recommend removal or replacement of amenities within the park, but at this time the District has no plans to remove any amenities at the park.
A concept plan illustrates a broad vision to garner support and consensus before proceeding into final design phases. Concept plans are typically less detailed than a final design. In this case, specific elements, colors, textures, materials will be determined in final design.
A master plan is a comprehensive plan with long-range goals. A Sunset Woods Park Master Plan will consider the entire Park, connectivity, recreation amenities, and how these amenities serve the Highland Park community and how the Park fits into the Downtown. The final master plan will provide a layout to guide future development and improvements at the park. The recommendations in the master plan will be developed in collaboration with the community. See the participate in the vision tab to see opportunities to participate in the planning.
Phase 1: Preliminary Design (Fall/Winter 2020 – January 2021)
The Preliminary Design phase has three steps:
The concept master plan will serve as a tool to guide future capital planning and support funding opportunities.
The playground concept plan developed in Phase 1 will serve as the foundation for Phase 2 playground final design.
Phase 2: Playground Final Design (Early 2021- Spring 2021)
The design team will develop detailed plans for construction. These plans will detail colors, materials, textures, dimensions, and play pieces.
Phase 3: Playground Construction (Summer – Fall 2021)
The new playground will be constructed. Once construction is completed, the new playground will be open to the community.
The playground renovation project’s objective is to replace two of the playgrounds at Sunset Woods, the Rocket Ship playground, and Titanic Tides Tot Lot. The master plan aims to evaluate the park holistically and recommend improvements to the park to serve the community better. The playground -construction is scheduled for 2021. The master plan project recommendations are currently unbudgeted.
The playground will be closed during construction, which is scheduled to begin in August 2021. Construction will continue through end of the year 2021 and, depending on weather, the playground may continue to remain closed for construction through Spring 2022. The Tree Adventure Playground (east of the playgrounds under construction) will remain open through construction.
Renovation of the playground is expected to break ground in Spring 2021.
The Titanic Tides Tot Lot and the 21st Century Playground are located on the eastern edge of the park.
The playground equipment is aging and in need of replacement. Planning for the playground will take approximately four months. Beginning the design for the playground now puts the Park District in the position to breakg round in 2021.
The Park Board decided to include the master planning of the park to ensure that the playground renovation fits into a modern vision for Sunset Woods. Recommendations determined through the master planning process are neither funded nor scheduled.
Looking for a meaningful way to commemorate a special event or memorialize a loved one and give back to your community? Purchase a $200 engraved brick with a message of your choice to help the Parks Foundation of Highland Park raise funds to build a playground seating plaza between the new playgrounds!
The playground had final inspections this week, and the fence came down Thursday afternoon. Thank you for your patience throughout construction!
The remaining pour-in-place rubber surface is in progress and should be completed early next week and will need a few days to cure. The Park District is awaiting the final delivery of equipment adjustment pieces that address safety concerns identified through inspections. These items are expected to arrive early next week. Final inspections are scheduled next week and the Park District expects the playground to open by Friday.
Thank you for your continued patience as we work to ensure that the playground is safe for play. The remaining pour-in-place rubber surfacing is expected to pick back up next week. We are targeting Mid-August for full completion.
The new nature-themed playground for 2–5-year-olds and the seating plaza at Sunset Woods is now open for play!!!! Our team is correcting the slopes and completing the pour-in-place rubber surface at the rocket ship playground, and it will open soon.
We are making progress and nearing completion. The pre-school-aged playground equipment and surfacing is complete, and inspections were successfully completed last week. Crews are working on final landscaping in this area and should be completed by the end of the week. The rocket ship playground equipment is substantially complete, and crews are working on the installation of the pour-in-place rubber surfacing. At this point, the team is focusing on completing inspections to ensure that the playground is meeting standards. During one such walk-through, the team identified some slopes that need to be addressed. Due to this issue along with the rain this past week the completion of the project is now anticipated later this month. The District is committed to delivering a safe play space and appreciates your patience.
The playground is full of color with the installation of the pour in place rubber surfacing currently underway. Construction crews continue wrapping up the playground equipment installation. The equipment is nearly 100% complete with a few minor pieces remaining for the rocket ship and the wavy net climber. Also this week, crews will be pouring concrete at the playground entry points and installing site furniture and landscaping. Inspections are scheduled and the team expects the playground to be open by July 13.
There is a lot of activity at Sunset Woods as the team works to complete the playground. Though the project faced a new challenge – a trucker’s strike impacting material access – which delayed the start of the rubber surfacing, the crew continued to work on playground installation, fencing, and completing the brick paver seating plaza. An alternative material source was identified, and the pour-in-place surface installation will begin this week. Crews will continue the installation of the rocket slides, the wavy net climber, and site landscaping and amenities. Also, ongoing this week, new park signs are being installed throughout the park. The Park District is doing everything in its power to open the Park before July 4; however, the weather may impact opening over the next few weeks. Please be aware that while the park may appear complete, the construction fence will remain until the safety rubber surfacing has cured and a full inspection has been completed.
Crews have made great progress this week. The final cap of the rocket tower was installed after waiting for a missing connection from the play equipment manufacturer. Crews will continue working on the surrounding panels through next week. The wavy net climber and sand tables are nearing completion along with the seating plaza in both the 2-5 and 5-12 play areas. Installation of the pour-in-place surfacing is expected to begin next week. Next week, crews will also be working on the turf restoration, fencing, and framing for the entry areas. The project team expects the work to be completed the week of June 27, weather permitting.
The crews are making great progress at Sunset Woods even while working through some equipment setbacks. Concrete walks are 90% complete and the rocket play structure accessories and panels are installed. Next week crews will focus on the installation of the final cap of the rocket ship, the wavy net climber, and seating plaza. Preparation for the pour in place rubber surfacing began this week and continues next week, with pour in place installation expected to begin the week of the 13th, weather dependent.
The crew is making progress on the rocket though it is going slower than anticipated due to some complications with the rocket panels. The foundation footings for the wavy net climber are complete and installation will begin this week. Concrete walks are being poured this week, and site improvements to the park entry have begun, including removing the old water fountain and prep work in advance of installing the new water fountain. This week, new concrete pads are scheduled to be poured for new amenities, including a trash/recycling receptacle and bike rack. The additional work required for the rocket tower has delayed the project slightly; the project team is estimating project completion the week of June 27.
Finally, an entirely dry week! Great progress has been made at the construction site. Most notably, stage 2 of the rocket ship is installed, and crews are starting to pour the concrete for the walkways. About 70% of the playground equipment is installed, and crews will be working on the remaining pieces next week, including the net climber. Crews are also working on improvements to the park entrance, including new benches, a bike rack, a water fountain, and landscaping. The project is on track to be completed by the week of June 20.
This week, the crews focused on the installation of the freestanding equipment, including the embankment slides, glide rails, the log steps in the 2-5 play area, as well as the worm talk tubes. Next week is expected to be dry and warm. If you take a walk in the park, you’ll see crews pouring concrete and continuing to build the second stage of the rocket. The project is on track to be completed by the week of June 20.
We’ve had our longest dry stretch for construction this Spring and making significant progress. Crews focused this week on the layout and framing of the seating plaza and surrounding walkways, as well as continued construction of the rocket and launch tower. As we near the completion of the project, the Park District will close in on a grand opening date. Currently, the project team is estimating the week of June 20.
April has brought more dry days, which is great news for the project. Crews started excavation for the rocket ship footings last week; the new footings and first platforms were installed this week. Installation of the hillside play equipment and concrete work for the curbs and pathways continues. We are hopeful that we will meet our June 2022 completion date, though the rain over the last month may have set the project back slightly. The project team is reviewing the schedule.
Unfortunately, the rain has slowed down progress at the construction site. Crews have done what they can including removal of the existing asphalt walk in the 2-5 play area, installation of play components, and continuing to layout and frame the concrete walk. The team is hopeful for better weather to make significant progress in the coming weeks.
Construction started back up in mid-March with crews cleaning the site and sorting playground equipment in preparation for installation. Work on the concrete curbing layout and framing continues. New this week, crews installed a net climber/spinner play piece. Next week, park visitors will begin to see the beginnings of the rocket ship. The project team is hoping for more dry days to keep on schedule.
Construction at Sunset Woods Park continued through December 2021 up to New Year’s Eve Day. Cold weather will slow down construction over the next month or two. However, the concrete contractor expects to continue work through the winter as weather allows.
Nearly all the play equipment has been received and we are expected to receive the remaining spinner in February. Work is expected to pick back up in March, weather dependent, at which point construction crews will finish up concrete masonry work, playground installation, pour-in-place surfacing, fencing, and landscaping. Target completion is Spring 2022.
The project gained a few bonus days for construction in December. If you take a walk near the park, you’ll see a lot of progress in the tot lot. The tot-lot swings are installed and the primary play structure is 90% complete. The footings for the other tot lot play pieces are also installed. Progress continues throughout the site, including grade staking to mark the location for future elements, formwork for paths and curbs, and pouring concrete for curbing. Construction will slow down over the holidays and through the colder months.
Crews are taking advantage of the warmer weather and have made significant progress. Curbs continue to go in as well as stakes marking the locations for the future playground elements. With the locations marked, crews have started working on the installation of the tot lot play equipment.
Though the temperatures are dropping, crews are continuing to work at Sunset Woods Park. This week, the focus is on the perimeter curbs and marking the layout of the new play equipment.
The drainage connections have been installed, which concludes the drainage work at the site. This week, crews will focus on the concrete curbs and the layout of the tot lot play structure in preparation for installation.
More play equipment has arrived for the new Sunset Woods Playground, including the tot lot primary play structure and vine climber. The remaining drainage connections were delivered this week and are nearly all installed. The cold weather this week delayed concrete work but the crews are hopeful that they will begin pouring the curbs early next week.
Play equipment is starting to arrive! We received the acorn climber for the tot lot. Weather depending, installation of tot lot equipment is expected to begin next month. While the rain has slowed down work, Crews continue to work on formwork for curbing and rebuilding the stone seating walls. The drainage system is nearly complete; crews are waiting for a custom drainage connection to wrap up the drainage work.
While the rain we’ve seen this past week has slowed down the work, crews are progressing on the framework for the concrete curbing.
As work on the drainage system and grading wrap up, keep an eye out for new elements to take shape. This week crews are backfilling the trenches and finishing up installing the drainage system. Next up is the framing for the concrete curb surrounding the playgrounds.
The contractor has completed the installation of the stone base and drainage pipe throughout both play areas. Next week crews will begin backfilling the trenches and framing to start the concrete perimeter curbing.
Crews have laid out the drainage pipe and trenched it in preparation for the new drainage system installation. The stone base and pipes will also be installed next week.
This past week, crews focused on preparing the site and underground drainage for the new playground. Rough grading and installation of the underground drainage system began as well.
Demolitions and removals are nearing completion and the project site is looking more like a blank canvas ready for the new playgrounds. Next week crews will finish with demolition and removals and begin preparation for site grading and drainage.
Crews continue to work on removals and demolition in preparation for the new site improvements. Towards the end of next week, crews expect to begin grading and drainage improvements on the site.
The rocket ship came down this week along with the tot lot pirate ship play structure, spring toys, and swings. Next week crews will continue removal of the remaining play equipment, engineered wood fiber safety surfacing, and stone retaining walls.
The playground renovations at Sunset Woods Park are well underway! Construction fencing went up last week and preliminary site work is complete. Contractors will begin demolition this week. Stay tuned for a timelapse video of the rocket ship coming down.
Members of the Park Board of Commissioners with help from some playground enthusiasts broke ground on the much-anticipated new Rocket Ship and Nature-Themed playgrounds at Sunset Woods Park.
Beginning Monday, August 16, the two playgrounds will be fenced off and crews will begin the demolition process of the existing parks. If Mother Nature cooperates, the new playgrounds will open in Spring 2022.
The playground renovation construction is set to start in mid-August.
At the July 27 Board Meeting, the Park Board approved the Sunset Woods Park Playground Renovation construction contracts. Construction is set to begin mid-August for the grand opening in Spring 2022 (weather dependent). Check out the renderings of the new playground.
On July 10, the Park District activated Sunset Woods Park for Unplug Illinois Day. The Planning Department joined the event as an opportunity to collect feedback for the Master Plan. We heard from neighbors and park users and continue to welcome feedback on the plan. See the updated Master Plan.
The Park District has been busy finalizing the playground renovation plans based on feedback from the community. See updated playground plans. Bids for the construction of the playground were received on July 8 and will be presented to the Park Board on July 27 for the award. The construction is expected to begin in August 2021.
On February 23, the Park Board approved a proposal to proceed with the final design and construction services for the playground renovation project. During this phase of the project, design consultants will use the playground concept plans developed with input from the community to advance the playground plans for construction. The designs developed through the final design phase will be bid for construction in late summer 2021.
The project team continues to finalize the master plan based on community input. Once approved, the final master plan will guide future development. The project team expects to present a final master plan document to the Park Board in the coming months.
The project team has refined the plans based on your feedback. Now is your opportunity to review the updated plans and provide additional comments. We are accepting comments on the project through Thursday, February 18. If you have additional questions and comments, please email [email protected].
View the plans.
Thank you to the community members who took the time to provide valuable input on the Sunset Woods Park playground concept plan and park master plan!
We heard:
– That many were not supportive of the proposed North Parking Lot
– There is a high interest in a splash pad and adult fitness
– The local tennis community values the clay courts and the bank of asphalt courts
The project team is working on refining the plan. Some updates you’ll see in the plan are:
– Removal of the parking lot near the north pavilion
– Retaining the clay courts and the asphalt courts
– A splash pad near the playground
The refined master plan will be shared with the community in February.
Playground: The renovation of the playground is scheduled to start this summer. A final concept for the playground will be presented to the Park Board for approval in February.
Park Master Plan: The final park master plan recommendations are not scheduled but will guide future development.
Between December 9-17, a survey was promoted to collect comments on the preliminary illustrative concept plans. The project team has aggregated the survey results, to review the results click the link below. The results from the survey and the comments received will be used to further refine the plans. The community will be given another opportunity in February to view and comment on the final designs.
Thank you to everyone that participated in the survey. We heard from over 350 respondents. The project team is reviewing the results and will be sharing the highlights in the next few weeks. The results from the survey and the comments received will be used to further refine the plans. The revised plans will be shared with the community in February 2021.
Survey Results
The preliminary concept plans are posted on the website and the virtual community meeting platform is available. Walkthrough a self-guided presentation to see the preliminary concept plans and then take the survey to share your comments. The survey will be open through December 17th.
The Sunset Woods Park Playground Renovation and Master Plan project update will be presented tonight at the December 8th Park Board meeting. The presentation will include illustrative concepts developed based on community input.
The design team is now looking for feedback on these initial concepts. Your feedback will be invaluable as the team refines the plans to be presented to the Park Board in February 2021.
The survey will be open from December 9-17.
Click here for a brief self-guided presentation and for a link to the survey.
The Sunset Woods Park Playground Renovation and Master Plan presentation scheduled for the November 17 Park Board Meeting and an online survey requesting community feedback expected to start on November 19 have been postponed. Due to COVID-19 emergency orders issued by Governor Pritzker and the City of Highland Park, the Park District had to refocus its attention for the November 17 Board Meeting. The project team will schedule the Sunset Woods Park Playground Renovation and Master Plan project presentation to the Park Board for a later date. The online survey will open for community comment following the Park Board presentation. The Park District will continue to post project updates on the website and will announce the adjusted timeline when available.
The project team targeted presenting the Sunset Woods Park Playground Renovation and Master Plan Project draft concept plans to the Park Board on Nov 10. The presentation has been rescheduled to Nov 17 to provide the team with additional time to refine the plans.
The draft plans will include illustrations based on the feedback we heard from the community, staff, and board. These initial drafts will facilitate discussion and collect input to refine further the concept plan that will serve as the foundation for the final design; therefore, the clarity of these plans is of utmost importance. With additional design time, the project team is refining the concept drafts and coordinating with playground manufacturers to develop images to illustrate the play equipment’s conceptual vision.
Thank you again for your interest in the Sunset Woods Park Playground and Master Plan project. The project team was excited to share the plans with the community at the end of this month; however, we have adjusted the schedule to allow for more design time.
Park District staff are working closely with Hitchcock Design Group to ensure that the initial plans follow the community, staff, and Park Board feedback. After further discussion with Hitchcock Design Group, the project team determined it was best to adjust the schedule to allow for more time to develop the initial plans.
Following the updated schedule, Hitchcock Design Group will present the plans at the November 10 public Park Board Meeting. Following the meeting, the plans will be available for public comment.
Over the past few weeks, we have heard from many of you about your vision for Sunset Woods Playground and Park. Just over 300 people participated in a vision survey online, we spoke with participants at the open house, and patrons using the parks. We heard some creative ideas including interest in ziplines, play structures with height, and hill play. Beyond the playground, we heard an interest in park elements such as a splash pad, a wheel-friendly plaza, and fitness opportunities. The project team is busy reviewing your feedback to finalize a project program that will guide the initial schematic plans for the playground and master plan. These plans are expected to be presented to the community at the end of October. At that time, there will be opportunities to collaborate with the Project Team on the design and share your feedback.
On Wednesday, The Park District hosted a Community Open House at the large open-air pavilion east of the playgrounds at Sunset Woods Park. Around twenty people stopped by and shared their input and participated in the visioning exercise presented by Hitchcock Design Group. Participants were asked to place two dots on images that best reflected their vision of the Playground and two more dots on images reflecting their vision of the park. Online and virtual opportunities to participate in the design effort are now available on the website. The information collected during the input phase will be used to develop the initial schematic plans. In October, residents will have an opportunity to provide feedback on the initial schematic plans.
We’d like to hear your thoughts and ideas on potential future development at the park as well as the playground renovation project. The first Community Open House has been scheduled for August 26th, 2020 from 430pm – 630pm at Sunset Woods Park, Large Pavilion (located in the central section of the park near the four playground areas). Stop by to share your vision for Sunset Woods Park. The project planning staff will be available to answer your questions and collect your feedback. Visuals and comment cards will be available. The event will be arranged for proper social distancing. Participants are required to wear face masks.
This will be the first of a series of community input opportunities.
Work is nearing completion. Over the past month, the stairway, elevator, ceiling tiles, and cabinetry in the training room were completed. Door hardware, AV equipment, security cameras, phones, internet and appliances were installed.
Final inspections are currently being completed. Staff have begun the process of moving into the building and expect to be completed by mid-March. Outstanding items yet to be completed include installation of the entrance gate, chemical loading station and expansion gap at the upper lot entrance. In spring, the asphalt surface layer will be installed and landscaping will be completed.
Over the past month, work continued on the exterior of the building including installation of the guardrail along the east side of the parking lot, installation of the overhead doors and testing of the fuel tanks. Interior work included hanging the doors and ceiling grid a well as installation of the light fixtures, lockers,
signage, blinds and restroom fixtures. The stairway, elevator and cabinetry in the training room and door hardware are being installed and will be completed by week’s end.
Inspections began and will continue over the next week. Ceiling tiles will be installed once inspections are completed.
Upcoming work will include installation of the mesh partitions, sliding fence gate and
chemical wash station.
Over the past month, the interior of the building began to take shape. Masonry walls are completed. Walls for the offices, training room and restrooms are framed and drywall is hung. Significant progress was made on electrical and plumbing installation. The gas meter was installed and gas unit heaters are now operational. Work on the exterior of the building included installation of skylights, exterior doors, roof coping and scuppers. Looking ahead, crews will start priming walls and hanging ceiling grid. Millwork work is scheduled to begin shortly. Overhead garage doors and elevator have been ordered and are expected to arrive soon.
This past month work at POGO has focused on underground utilities, preparing the parking lot for asphalt, and continuing work on the precast panels. Work is complete on the sanitary line and water main. Crews continue work on the electrical lines to the building. The exterior precast panels are set along with the second-floor panels. Detailing, caulking, and capping of panels continues. The uppers panels have been prepped for the roof to be installed. Outside on the upper parking lot, crews stabilized the ground in preparation for stone and asphalt.
Looking ahead, crews will set the roof of the building. Once the roof has been set crews will begin to pour concrete for the first floor. On the upper parking lot, curb work continues in preparation for the stone to be placed in advance of the asphalt and concrete.
The building is taking shape! Precast concrete walls have been set in place and concrete curbing has been installed. Work continues on the first and second floors as well as the underground utilities and plumbing. In the upcoming weeks the roof of the building will be installed.
It is a busy time at the Park and Golf Operations Site! The concrete footings were installed and the pre-cast panels making up the exterior wall of the building have started to be put in place. In addition to the building work, progress continues throughout the site.
Crews installed underground storm pipe to drain stormwater from the site to the stormwater storage on the golf course, conduit for the fuel island has been installed along with the concrete pads for the fuel island and the material storage.
Looking ahead, crews will continue to work on the building shell – setting the mezzanine in place and working on the roof, second floor, and first floor installation.
The buildings retaining wall is complete and excavators continue to haul off soil. In the coming week crews are beginning curb installation and pouring concrete for the building footings. The precast concrete panel walls are expected to be erected later this month.
This past week in-ground aggregate piers were installed to stabilize the soil in preparation for the foundation construction. Over the next few weeks crews will continue to install retaining walls and concrete footings for the foundation of the building.
This week crews will complete demolition of the building and site clearing. Next week, excavation and grading of the site will begin.
The Plan and Design Commission recommended the Park and Golf Operations Center project for City Council approval. The project will be discussed at the Monday, April 24City Council Meeting. The meeting is scheduled for 7:30 pm at City Hall, 1707 St Johns Ave.
Site work will begin this May with demolition of the existing building and site grading . Construction of the building will begin in June.
For 98 years, Sunset Valley Golf Course has been a valued part of the Highland Park community. Generations of residents learned to play golf at Sunset including Illinois Amateur Hall of Famer Joel Hirsch and newcomer to the PGA tour Patrick Flavin. Even PGA Champions and World Golf Hall of Famers including Walter Hagen, Tommy Armour, Jock Hutchinson, Harry Cooper, and Archie Compston played at Sunset. However, the clubhouse built in 1956 and the course, which still featured some of the original 1920 elements, were in vital need of renovation to provide a great golfing experience for today’s community.
In August 2018, the Park District of Highland Park reopened Sunset following an extensive $7 million renovation that took 18 months to complete. The new Sunset Valley accommodates every level of golfer and reflects an open British Heathlands course design with strategic landforms, flowing masses of native grasses and groves of trees which harken back to the character and aesthetics of a 1920’s era golf course. The project included renovation of all tees, fairways, greens, bunkers as well as overall infrastructure, drainage and storm water management.
The remodeled clubhouse offers a classic vibe with striking views of the course. Now featuring an expanded golf shop, the new “13ninety” restaurant, as well as a cozy lounge with fireplace, the clubhouse is no longer just a “pass through” to the course, but a destination for guests and golfers to shop and relax with a cold drink, a meal, and a beautiful view.
Renovation of Sunset Valley Golf Club was a major initiative in the Park District’s 10-year master plan and community involvement played a key role in the ultimate outcome. It was vitally important to continue its long-held practice of seeking input from the community for the project. The District made sure the entire Sunset Valley planning process was conducted publicly and with multiple opportunities for public input. In addition to presentations at public Park Board meetings, a Golf Advisory Committee comprised of avid resident golfers met monthly to provide design input. Four public meetings were also held during the design process allowing for additional resident feedback.
The two-phased project included renovation of the course from April through October 2017 and renovation of the clubhouse from October 2017 through July 2018. Throughout the process, the District sent letters to neighbors introducing them to the project, informing them of community meetings and public hearings, and providing project progress updates. Several weeks prior to the project’s start, neighbor letters were distributed letting them know that the project was set to begin, what equipment they would see on-site, what initial work would take place, assuring them that construction traffic would not enter neighborhood streets and construction crews would abide by City ordinances.
Project updates were also posted on the Park District’s website and linked to the District’s bi-weekly e-newsletter. With a database of over 12,000 email addresses and a website with 12,000 visits monthly, the project was constantly in the public eye.
Like many courses, Sunset Valley is in a flood plain and moving water off the course was a constant challenge. The new course features a combination of strategic design, creative use of hearty grasses and a quality drainage system that manages water for increased playability and lower down time.
The new design strategically raised the areas where people normally hit their second shots. Higher elevation means those areas are naturally dryer for better play. A mix of new hybrid grasses on the fairways, tees and putting surfaces can withstand draught and heavy rains to increase playability.
In the past, a heavy rain could have closed the course for three days. The new drainage system includes a whopping 15 miles of drainage pipe that moves water off the course faster allowing it to re-open in mere hours after a heavy rain. Ponds and lakes were expanded allowing the property to hold more water from the course and the surrounding neighborhood which is an added benefit for the entire community.
The new clubhouse was designed to maximize space using the same footprint as the old clubhouse and eliminated the need for additional and expensive foundation work. No longer just a pass through to the course, the clubhouse features an expanded pro shop, comfortable lounge area with a fireplace, restaurant, bar, covered patio and veranda – all with sweeping views of the new course. The clubhouse is now a popular destination for golfers and residents to relax over a meal and enjoy the sunset.
In 2012, the District began its 10-year master planning process by conducting a communitywide Interest and Attitude survey as well as an in-depth evaluation of the District. Among the priorities identified in that process it was determined that Sunset Valley was in vital need of renovation to continue to provide a long-term golfing experience for the community. At the time, the District was also presented with the opportunity to acquire the Highland Park Country Club, an 18-hole public course built in the 1960s, as part of an existing intergovernmental agreement with the City of Highland Park.
After careful analysis and recommendations from Pellucid Group and Jacobson Golf Course Design on the local golf market as well as the condition of both courses, the Park District Board determined that Highland Park could successfully sustain only one public course. And, though both courses needed renovation, Sunset Valley offered the best opportunity from a golfer experience and architectural standpoint and would be less expensive to renovate.
From an historical standpoint, Sunset Valley had served the community for nearly a hundred years and had important meaning to many resident families who grew up playing at the course with friends, parents and grandparents. It was and continues to be the home of the Highland Park High School golf teams.
As an added benefit to the community, the Park District is now converting the 100-acre Highland Park Country Club course into a natural area. This project fulfills the community’s desire for additional open space and trails.
| Description | Dates |
|---|---|
| Clubhouse Design & Construction Documents | February-May 2017 |
| Golf Course Construction | May-October 2017 |
| Clubhouse Bid | July 15, 2017 |
| Clubhouse Bid Awarded | September Board Meeting |
| Clubhouse Construction | October 2017-May 2018 |
| Golf Course Opened | August 2018 |
| Date | Description |
|---|---|
| April 3, 2017 | Neighborhood open house to solicit input for future new general park amenities |
| July 10, 2017 | Neighborhood playground planning meeting |
| November 13, 2017 | Neighborhood final playground plan review |
| June 2018 | Playground installation |
The Kennedy Park Playground will re-open to the public on Saturday, June 9.
The Park Board approved the purchase of the new playground equipment. Installation is slotted for Spring 2018.
A kick-off community meeting allowing neighbors the opportunity to provide input on the new playground design.
The renovation of the lower level will take place Mar-Apr 2017 and will include…
The renovation of the upper level will take place May-August 2017 and will include…
| Dates | Description |
|---|---|
| October-November 2016 | Design Development |
| November-December 2016 | Construction Documents |
| January-February 2017 | Bidding & Negotiation |
| March-June 2017 | Lower Level Construction |
| April-August 2017 | Upper Level Construction |
| September 2017 | Estimated Grand Opening |
