The Oak Brook Park District’s Family Aquatic Center will soon be closed for a month while the most extensive renovation project in the 26-year history of the facility is completed.
Work on the $1.2 million project is scheduled to be done from Aug. 12 to Sept. 13 and includes:
• New heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning (HVAC)
• Pool deck surface replacement
• Updated paint
• New sound system
• Replacement of window tinting
• Replacement of pool heaters
• New Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) lift for lap pool
“This is an exciting multi-faceted project being completed in a short window of time to minimize disruptions to our members and guests,” said Bob Johnson, the park district’s deputy director. “We believe our patrons will have a safer, cleaner, and more enjoyable experience as a result of the updates.”
Johnson said Park District staff began planning and budgeting two years ago for the various projects that are part of the renovation. The HVAC system was the first priority, he said.
“The system is very loud, is nearing the end of its service life, and does not maintain a desirable climate for the Aquatic Center,” Johnson said.
“The existing tile pool deck is original to the Aquatic Center construction in 1998,” he said. “The tile will be replaced with a colorful cushioned and slip-resistant flooring system.”
Johnson said the window tinting and paint also is original to the facility, and the tinting film is peeling and cracking.
“And the updated paint will give the facility a fresh and clean look,” he said. “The existing sound system is antiquated with muffled sound. The new system will have 2-3 zones and will be properly tuned for the aquatic environment.”
Johnson said the pool heater replacements are done every few years, due to the wear and tear.
“We expect the facility to feel fresh and vibrant (when the renovation is completed),” he said. “The deck will feel more comfortable and clean, while providing a great pop of color to the facility. The new paint should make a strong impact and help brighten up the space. Our regular members will most likely notice the difference in the atmosphere and the significantly reduced noise levels from the HVAC units.”
While the upcoming upgrades represent the most significant work done at the Family Aquatic Center, Johnson said there will be additional improvements in the future.
“By nature, aquatic centers require ongoing maintenance and repairs,” he said. “Additional work in the future will include refurbishing the water slide, replacing tile on vertical surfaces, and ongoing pump and filtration maintenance.”
Chuck Fieldman is a freelance reporter for Pioneer Press.