The overall plan below overviews the design of the project components that have been developed through the design process.

The renderings below show the elements of the west side of the project area.

The concept plan below highlights the project area (red outline) and the project components.

The Project scope includes (the letter corresponds with the layout plan below):

• ADA accessible sidewalk connection from the roadway to the beach (D)
• ADA accessible boardwalk along the beach front (H)
• Resurfacing and reconfiguration of the north parking lot for improved vehicular and boat access (A)
• Native landscaping (I)
• Signage
• Site Lighting
• Alternate Bid: Pergola at beach front

The Park District hired Hitchcock Design Group (HDG) to take the concept plan through to implementation.

The layout plan below builds on the approved concept plan and is based on a survey of existing conditions, dimensions, and utilities. The layout plan will be shared with the Park Board at a public meeting on October 4, 2023. HDG will then complete the construction documents for the project to be bid out this fall.

Phase 1

This phase is funded through the OSLAD grant award and Park District capital budget. (Highlighted in the red dotted line in illustration below)

Highlights of the plan include:

A: Reconfigured parking lot for improved circulation, landscaping, and viewing of the Lake.
D: New concrete sidewalk for easier beach access for pedestrians walking to the beach.
H: New accessible boardwalk along the beach, improving access to the beach and circulation around Park Avenue Boating Facility.
G: Seating along the boardwalk.

Phase 2:

This phase is unfunded. These elements will be designed and bid as alternates to Phase 1, and if funding is available, Phase 2 will be implemented. (Highlighted in the black dotted line in illustration below)

Highlights of the plan include:

A: The fenced boat parking will not be resurfaced as part of this project but has been identified as a future need.
B: Plaza with pergola, tables, and chairs to enhance patron experience as the beach and provide space for gathering and passive use.

Please note: Park Ave construction begins in September. See new parking configurations.

Districtwide planning efforts, including the Park Avenue Site Master Plan, Beach Management Plan, and the Lakefront Master Plan, support the Park Avenue Access Improvement Plan  These plans were enhanced by engagement with the community and patrons of the Park Avenue Boating Facility.

The existing site is a collaboration between the City of Highland Park and the Park District of Highland Park.  Consistent with the Intergovernmental Cooperation Act, the City owns the land, and the Park District manages all operations at the site through a 99-year Lease Agreement. The current Dome is owned by a third-party (Grantee) who is permitted to rent space for indoor recreation uses such as soccer, lacrosse, and other similar sports consistent with the terms of a Concession and Site Agreement (Dome Agreement). This Agreement was initiated in 2009 and has since been extended several times. The final term for the Agreement expired in April 2024.

In August 2023, the Park District released a request for proposals for a new long-term agreement that would meet the needs of the community.  The Park District did not receive a proposal from the current Grantee but did receive three alternative proposals. In January 2024, after an extensive review process, the Park District enthusiastically accepted a proposal from Highland Park native Ronald Saslow for an indoor pickleball and padel facility. Mr. Saslow is contributing a major portion of the funding for the new facility, which will now be a year-round paddle facility.    

The cost for both materials and installation of the air supported structure (dome) is roughly $1.4M. Construction of the court surface; the interior furniture, fixtures, and amenities; and adding utility services for sewer, water, and electric, will bring the total to roughly $4.2M. While a significant portion is covered by the generous donation from Mr. Saslow, the Parks Foundation of Highland Park is actively seeking donations and sponsorships to raise $600,000 to make the new indoor paddle facility a reality.  

• new tot lot and elementary playground
• new full-size basketball court
• new picnic/shade shelter
• diamond field improvements
• soccer field improvements
• walking path improvements and reconfiguration
• site furniture replacement
• related site work and landscaping