The agreement with the current grantee ends in April. In August, the Park District of Highland Park sought proposals for grantees to operate the dome, and the current grantee chose not to submit a proposal to renew their term.

The Park Board accepted a proposal for an indoor pickleball and padel facility in January 2024.  Indoor pickleball courts are in high demand, and the new dome will expand the District’s recreational offerings to meet the diverse needs of the Highland Park community.

No, the new dome will remain within the same footprint.

The overall safety of the synthetic turf is the predictability and consistency of play.  There are no bad hops or dips or holes that can cause injuries. 

Unlike black crumb rubber fill that absorbs the heat, the green color of the EPDM (ethylene propylene, diene monomer) infill will help reduce the heat.

The project drainage has been approved by the City of Highland Park and the Lake County Stormwater Commission and meets all requirements.

Because of its composition as a coated material, there is minimal risk of inhalation, ingestion, absorption, or migration.  EPDM is used in potable water applications, meaning EPDM seals are present in all municipal drinking water systems including faucets used inside the home.  

Toxicology tests were done on EPDM (ethylene propylene, diene monomer) by an independent lab using the EPA Method 6010 standard – testing for the presence of heavy metals, hydrocarbons, and phthalates(fal-ates).   No harmful emissions were found.

The EPDM (ethylene propylene, diene monomer) fill used in the Fink baseball field is a non-toxic material that is recyclable and reuseable. 

No, EPDM (ethylene propylene, diene monomer) is not regulated or tracked by the EPA because it is not designated as harmful.

The fill is EPDM (ethylene propylene, diene monomer), it is a non-toxic plastic rubber that is widely used in our everyday life from weather stripping, flooring to playground surfacing.   It is also recyclable and reusable and has high resistance to abrasion and wear.