Spring/Summer 2013

            Spring is a time of new beginnings and this year the Wilmette Park District will be launching projects to rejuvenate Centennial Ice Rinks and the golf course at the Wilmette Golf Club. We also intend to expand our recreational opportunities with the construction of a new platform tennis facility and we continue to develop a master plan for the future of the lakefront.

          Centennial Ice Rinks will close April 22, after this year’s Spring Ice Show, for mechanical upgrades including the replacement of the ice refrigeration system. The facility plans to reopen in September.

          The golf course will shut down on July 29 for renovation that includes major drainage work and the reconfiguration of fairways, bunkers, tees and greens. The Pro Shop, clubhouse restaurant, driving range and golf lessons will remain available during the construction project. The targeted re-opening for the golf course is late May 2014, depending on weather conditions. 

          Designs for a new platform tennis facility have been approved and if construction bids are within budget and are accepted this spring, the grand opening of this new facility is projected for this coming fall. The platform tennis facility will include four courts and a paddle hut and be available for league and recreational play, lessons and parties. 

          Work continues on the Lakefront Master Plan. Outreach efforts to gather community input are ongoing as part of the plan’s Phase II review of three proposed alternatives. Our next step will be to narrow the alternatives to one consolidated design which will be presented to the community for more discussion. On a related note, the Park District is working with the Village of Wilmette on the future of the Elmwood Avenue right of way which has been set aside for public use.

          Don’t forget to vote in the April 9th election. Three of the four open seats on the Board of Park Commissioners are contested. The Board serves as the steering body that oversees park district policy and finances, charting the course for continued quality in facilities, programs and parks.

          Finally, my two year term as president of the Board of Park Commissioners is now concluding. I would like to thank the citizens of Wilmette, and my fellow board members, for the privilege of serving in this capacity. I hope to be able to use my experience to continue to contribute to the positive growth and evolution of the Park District through 2015, the end of my upcoming term.

          I encourage you to provide the Board with feedback on any Park District concerns you might have. Please do not hesitate to contact me at jbrault@wilpark.org.

See you in the parks!
James L. Brault
President
Board of Park Commissioners