Outdoor Pool Facility Renovation Project

Update - October 13, 2025

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.

Outdoor Pool Facility Renovation Plan

The Renovation Plan consists of the following elements:

• New zero-depth entry leisure pool with six 25-yard lap lanes 
• New spray ground
• New water slides
• New outdoor entrance to the pool
• New concessions building and seating areas
• New lifeguard office & first aid building
• New infrastructure, including equipment, piping, electrical, sanitation, water mains, and mechanical buildings
• New furniture and fixtures
• Renovation of existing locker rooms

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the Outdoor Pool going to re-open?

The District anticipates opening the Pool in June of 2026.

Can I still use Hopkins Park (playground, park, courts, etc.)?

Yes! All other amenities at Hopkins Park will still be available. However, the north parking lot will be closed for construction staging through the duration of the project, which means we will not open the seasonal Ice Rink during winter 2025/2026. 

Are there water slides in the current project?

Four water slides are included in the final site plan. Two slides will empty into a body of water, and two slides will be zero-depth plunge slides.

Will there be a separate kiddie pool in this project?

The new facility will have a separate splash pad area instead of a traditional kiddie pool. This area will have shade and seating for parents and families and will be separated from the main pool deck by fencing.

Will the new pool be ADA-accessible?

Yes. The new pool will feature both zero-depth entry as well as permanent stair entrances and handrails in the locker room showers and restroom areas.

Will the locker rooms be renovated in this project?

Yes. The Locker Rooms will undergo a complete and comprehensive remodel in this project. They will include a male locker room, a female locker room, and a small family locker room. The locker rooms will be in the same footprint as the current ones.

Will there be a diving well?

No. Due to budget constraints, a new diving well is not included in the scope of this project. Projected cost estimates, provided by construction consultants, for a new diving well started at $2 million.

Is there a reduced capacity for the current plan?

The bather load/capacity for the new facility is anticipated to be 1,000.

Where will the pool be located?

The pool facility will remain in the same location as the old facility.

Was community input considered regarding the options of for the Outdoor Pool?

In August 2020, the DeKalb Park District commissioned Larson & Darby Group with Counsilman-Hunsaker to conduct a pool feasibility study, evaluating the existing conditions of the aging aquatic facility and developed a renovation/replacement plan. Included in their planning process was obtaining and gathering community feedback via both surveys and public meetings while gauging the community's aquatic needs and wants. The results of this study were presented to the Park Board in December 2020. The Board of Commissioners also created a pool advisory committee consisting of Board members, District staff, and members of the public which made recommendations for the final designs. Each month, the Park Board hosts a Park Board meeting that is open to public comment.

How much will the project cost?

The total project cost is anticipated to be between $14 - $16 million.

How will the pool renovation construction be funded?

Construction will be funded with funds from the existing capital fund balance, the 2025 and 2026 budget years, and the issuance of $9.5 million in alternate bonds.

Will there be a tax rate increase to fund a pool facility renovation?

No. The alternate bond repayment will be secured by future annual bond issues, which are a part of the District’s annual tax levy.

How long is the bond issue repayment schedule?

20 years.

Will there be a price increase?

Pricing decisions have not been made at this time.

Why are we building a pool when inflation and the cost of goods are high?

The old facility reached the end of its life cycle and a choice of whether to replace or decommission the facility had to be made.  The District has decided to take the steps necessary to continue to provide a seasonal swimming facility for future generations regardless of current market conditions.

I still have questions. Where should I direct them?

Please email our Superintendent of Recreation, Chrissy Tluczek, at ctluczek@dekalbparkdistrict.com