The Glencoe Park District may ask residents for the right to borrow up to nearly $15 million this fall to improve some of its facilities. Eyeing changes at several of its locations, the Park Board is considering placing a 25-year bond sale referendum on the November ballot where the proceeds would fund a series of projects. Specifically, the Park District is proposing a new single facility behind the Takiff Center, replacing five aging buildings used for storage, offices and other functions.
Other possible upgrades include new playground structures at the Glencoe Beach, a new boardwalk at the beach and the boathouse and new light poles and backstops at the Takiff Center North Field. Park District Spokeswoman Erin Classen noted there would also be construction of a new greenhouse, replacing the existing one currently located at the Takiff Center. Tentative plans would place the new greenhouse at Shelton Park.
“We are not looking to make wholesale changes to the size and scope of these amenities, rather than replace and renovate them in a way the community can recognize from the past and enjoy for decades into the future,” Director of Parks and Planning Kyle Kuhs said at a May 13 virtual meeting. The Park District does not have a specific cost estimate at this point for all of the identified projects. However, the referendum would be no higher than $14.
7 million, according to officials. Classen said officials believe the proposed improvements can be accomplished with $14.7 .