Capital Projects & Improvements

The Glen Ellyn Park District continues to work on improving your parks and facilities. If you would like more information about any of these projects, please email Nathan Troia at ntroia@gepark.org.

Playground Replacement Plan

The District’s Playground Replacement Plan ensures that Glen Ellyn averages one new playground each year. Each of the District’s 21 playgrounds has an average useful life of 15-20 years. The plan includes playgrounds in the proposed priority order; however, the order is subject to change based on available grant opportunities, budgets, and other factors.

View the plan »

Projects Currently in Planning or Construction

Expand each section to learn more about projects currently in planning or under construction.

Ackerman Sports & Fitness Center and Ackerman Park Renovations
Project Status: In Construction

Project Description:
As part of the voter-approved referendum in 2022, renovations will take place at the Ackerman Sports & Fitness Center and Ackerman Park throughout 2023-24. Serving as a cornerstone of the Glen Ellyn Park District’s offerings since its establishment in 2010, the Ackerman Sports & Fitness Center has consistently been a dynamic hub for a diverse community. It caters to recreational players, individuals with disabilities, elite athletes, seniors, families with young children, youth, and others.

The project encompasses:
- A brand-new gymnastics center.
- A multi-purpose room.
- Two new group fitness studios.
- Outdoor pickleball courts.
- Various interior aesthetic improvements.
- Enhancements to create a more customer-friendly front desk and lobby area.
News & Updates:
Questions or Comments
Please contact Nathan Troia at ntroia@gepark.org.

Project Renderings:
Sunset Pool Renovations
Project Status: In Construction

Project Description:
As part of the voter-approved referendum in 2022, renovations will take place at Sunset Pool throughout 2023-24. Sunset Pool, originally constructed in the 1950s, has had no major improvements for more than 20 years. It is one of the most well attended facilities within Glen Ellyn and always rated as a highly valued community asset. Implementing periodic improvements will ensure the pool continues to serve our residents.

The project encompasses:
- A new water slide feature.
- A zero-depth water play area.
- A splash pad.
- Family changing areas.
- Outdoor seating.
- Infrastructure upgrades.
News & Updates:
- Reminder: Sunset Pool closes for the season on August 13, 2023 (8/4/23)
Questions or Comments
Please contact Nathan Troia at ntroia@gepark.org.

Project Rendering:
Sunset Playground (2023)
Project Status: Complete

Project Description:
Replacement of the Sunset Park playground took place in 2022/23 as part of the District’s Playground Replacement Plan. The newly-renovated playground uses sustainably-conscious equipment purchased from playground manufacturer KOMPAN, whose GreenLine products are developed by repurposing post-consumer waste, giving new life to materials, and reducing carbon emissions.

News & Updates:
Park District installs Illinois’ first playground with equipment made of recycled ocean waste.

Questions or Comments
Please contact Nathan Troia at ntroia@gepark.org.
Ackerman Park Fields 5 & 6
Project Status: Design

Project Description:
Softball fields 5 and 6 were not included in previous park improvements due to limited funding. Recently, the District received funding from the Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity which will fund 80% of the improvements. Renovations will have similar elements to the softball hub, including black polycoated dome backstops, premium infield mix, and resizing the infields to regulation standards.

News & Updates:

Questions or Comments
Please contact Nathan Troia at ntroia@gepark.org.
Security Cameras (2022-2023)
Project Background: Ongoing

Project Description:
In 2022 and 2023, the Glen Ellyn Park District is enhancing park security by installing new surveillance cameras at select locations. These measures are part of our ongoing commitment to the safety and well-being of our community members and park visitors.

News & Updates:
In summer 2022, security cameras were added to Lake Ellyn, giving 24/7 coverage and recording capabilities of the Boathouse and property. Cameras will be installed at Newton Park and Maryknoll Park starting in the winter 2022. Additional cameras will be added at other locations in 2023.

Questions or Comments
Please contact Nathan Troia at ntroia@gepark.org.
Frank Johnson Center Study and Renovation (2021-2023)
Project Status: In Construction

Project Description:
The Frank Johnson Center is the Operations building headquarters for all maintenance of the District Parks and Facilities. Originally an ice production building, this facility has been renovated in piecemeal over the years.

As the facility is beyond its useful life and in significant need of attention, the District reviewed several options, including relocation. In conclusion, it was determined to have the operation remain at its current site and develop renovation plans that could possibly be implemented within the next ten years. As part of the long-range capital planning process, a facility evaluation occurred in 2021 to identify needs, deficiencies, and potential solutions for the facility and site. These will be incorporated into a master plan that will be phased over the next 5 years and integrated into our financial plans.

A facility evaluation was conducted by a professional architect during summer 2021, including multiple input sessions with staff. Two concepts for reconstruction and remodeling were produced, along with the projected cost for future construction. These were presented to the Board and are being integrated into our financial plans.

Architectural plans are under development and will be subject to permit review prior to bidding this winter. Construction is set to begin in spring 2023.

Temporary facilities and accommodations are being devised to ensure there will be no interruption to park operation services.

News & Updates:
- September 29, 2023 Update: Playground Closure Notice
Questions or Comments
Please contact Nathan Troia at ntroia@gepark.org.
Lake Foxcroft Asphalt Improvements and Master Planning (2022)
Project Status: Design

Project Description:
The highlight of Lake Foxcroft Park, a 10-acre park located within the south area of the Park District, is the 3-acre Lake Foxcroft, which is one of the best catch-and-release fishing opportunities in DuPage County. Last improved in the 1970s, Lake Foxcroft Park will be the site of improvements that include new fishing stations, a new waterless restroom, a new playground to replace the old one there, new adult fitness stations and improved pathways throughout.

News & Updates:

Questions or Comments
Please contact Nathan Troia at ntroia@gepark.org.
Downtown Event Area & Open Space Park

Project Status: Design

Project Description:
The Village of Glen Ellyn and the Glen Ellyn Park District are partnering to redevelop the former US Bank property located at 453 Forest Avenue in Downtown Glen Ellyn into a multi-use event and Downtown park/open space, to be utilized by the entire Glen Ellyn community. In addition to the US Bank property, the agreement will also develop a framework to improve and enhance both Panfish Park and Manor Woods, a response to feedback driven by the community.

News & Update:
For more information on this project, please visit the project webpage.

Questions or Comments
Please contact Nathan Troia at ntroia@gepark.org.