July 27, 2023 at 3:32pm
Listen to the Article
Article by Elena Ferrarin
Communications Coordinator
Northbrook Park District
The Northbrook Park District is hosting an open house to obtain community input regarding project plans for upgrades at Meadowhill Aquatic Center (MAC).
The open house will take place from 6 to 7:15 p.m. Aug. 1 at Meadowhill Aquatic Center, 1501 Maple Avenue.
This project would upgrade the existing facility by offering a more ADA accessible and inclusive bathhouse building, and by incorporating efficiency improvements that would make the community aquatic center even more environmentally friendly. The broad plan for the upgrades includes both visible and behind-the-scenes improvements to the bathhouse and mechanicals.
A major goal would be to enhance the public’s entry and admissions experience into the bathhouse, with additional updates to the locker rooms and restrooms.
“With a strong emphasis on ensuring the continued operation of the facility’s mechanical systems, the upgrades also bring forth an exciting addition — two accessible gender-neutral changing rooms. The staff is enthusiastic about these new inclusive facilities that will cater to the diverse needs of all our visitors, making their experience even more comfortable and welcoming,” said Director of Parks and Properties Chris Leiner.
The project would feature important upgrades to MAC’s infrastructure — including the roof, lap pool tank and gutter system, and mechanical filtration and circulation equipment — that will lead to more efficient performance and long-term cost savings.
The plunge pool and leisure/lap pool would get a fresh coat of paint while the lap pool deck concrete and shade areas would be improved.
The upgrades would comply with the latest requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act. The building’s original structure dates to the 1960s.
Findings from the 2021 Community Survey conducted as part of the district’s Comprehensive Master Plan Update indicated the community’s desire for the park district to take care of what it already has – including facilities and parks. Considering this direction, an assessment of the aquatic center was conducted by FGMArchitects in 2022. Based on those findings, with the goal of continued long-term facility operation, the park district developed a maintenance and replacement plan for the aquatic center.
The preliminary estimated project cost for these carefully selected upgrades would be $3.56 million.
The project was identified as eligible for the Open Space Lands Acquisition and Development (OSLAD) grant program from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. The maximum grant award would be $600,000 for fiscal year 2024. The program’s application deadline is Aug. 31.
For updates and more information, please visit the Park District’s website at nbparks.org/projects.