DeKalb, IL – The DeKalb Park District is currently undergoing many projects, including a comprehensive flooring and interior renovation project at the Sports and Recreation Center, a new irrigation system installation and Driving Range Tee update at Buena Vista Golf Course, a complete update of the League of Women Voters Park and renovation of the outdoor pool at the Hopkins Park Community Center.
Sports and Recreation Center Flooring Project
Built in 1999 and opened in 2000, many of the Sports and Recreation Center flooring and interior components are original to the building and are approaching the end of their useful life. Over the years, heavy use has left high-traffic areas worn, difficult to clean, and outdated, prompting an update to enhance both functionality and appearance.
To date, the project has successfully completed flooring installation in key public areas on the second floor, including hallways, spectator seating, bathrooms, and concession areas. On the first floor, epoxy resurfacing work is now finished. Renovations are ongoing in the main lobby, where cove base installations continue throughout the space. Replacement of all stair treads is scheduled to begin in November, and additional upgrades — including new spectator seating and aesthetic improvements — will continue through the end of fall.
“Modernizing our facility ensures an inviting, safe, and clean environment for residents and visitors,” said Chrissy Tluczek, Superintendent of Recreation. “These updates not only improve the facility’s appearance but also extend its lifespan well into the future.”
The Sports & Recreation Center remains open during renovations, with phased construction planned to minimize disruption. Community members are encouraged to visit and experience the improvements as they are completed.
Buena Vista Irrigation Project
The original irrigation system at Buena Vista Golf Course was installed in the early 1960s, providing the course with over 60 years of use to maintain turf health. In recent years, many irrigation breaks have occurred, and upkeep of the current system has required considerable manpower that could be prioritized in other areas. The new irrigation system will provide better water coverage, including much of the rough.
The Buena Vista Irrigation Project began the first week of October. The larger mainline pipe –a large 10-inch pipe that loops around the entire course–is in the process of being installed in the rough. Smaller pipes that are connected to the mainline are installed on the tees and fairways. The installation process of these smaller pipes is anticipated to take place after the course is closed for the season.
The anticipated completion date of this project is by the end of December 2025.
Buena Vista Driving Range Tee Update
Natural grass is being added to the Buena Vista Driving Range Tee. Bentgrass was planted over the summer behind the existing driving range mats. During the fall and winter, the mats will be removed to extend the bentgrass teeing area forward. This will provide players with approximately 15,000 square feet of grass hitting space. New range mats are also planned in case the grass area is too wet for play.
League of Women Voters Park Update
The League of Women Voter’s Park update is currently underway. All safety and protective fencing are in place, old playground equipment and surfacing has been removed, the game area and basketball court have been excavated, and a compacted gravel base has been installed. Depending on weather conditions, the plans for the continuing weeks are to install concrete flat work, install the playground equipment, and begin the paving process.
Hopkins Park Outdoor Pool Facility Renovation Updates
The District continues to work with the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) to obtain an IDPH Permit which will allow for the construction of the new zero-depth pool, spray ground, water slides, and locker rooms. The Building Permit has been tentatively approved by the City of DeKalb, allowing work to continue. Energy ComCheck and Mechanical items have been approved to allow buildings to come out of the ground.
Underground plumbing and electrical raceways have been installed, and slab-on-grade pours took place at the Entry, Concessions and Mechanical buildings. Exterior masonry wall assemblies have begun construction and are planned to be completed to roof pre-cast bearing in time for it to be built in late October. The Lobby has been painted a consistent color after the temporary walls were removed last month and was opened back up to the public.
In addition to building masonry, work continues with other site improvements including preparation for the new ComEd Service which includes modifications to the south parking lot and footings, foundations for new park shelters, and monument sign at the north end of the site.
The District anticipates the project to be completed in the summer of 2026.
To stay up to date on projects, please visit the DeKalb Park District website at https://dekalbparkdistrict.com/capital-improvement-projects.
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