DeKalb Park District Board of Commissioners Approve Contract for New Outdoor Swimming Facility at Hopkins Park

Thu May 15, 2025

DeKalb, IL - While Memorial Day weekend typically marks the much-anticipated opening of Hopkins Pool, this summer marks the exciting next phase in the facility’s transformation. 

 At the Board of Commissioners Meeting on April 17, 2025, the Park District Board of Commissioners approved a final contract amendment with IHC Construction, authorizing them to build the new outdoor swimming facility at Hopkins Park. Following the pool’s closure last summer, the demolition of the former facility is complete. Construction is expected to begin this summer, pending final permit approvals from the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) and the City of DeKalb. As a result, Hopkins Pool will remain closed for the 2025 season as work progresses on the new facility.

The Renovation Project is a transformative capital improvement effort to modernize the nearly 90-year-old facility site, enhance the guest experience, and improve safety, accessibility, and operational efficiency. 

The Hopkins Pool Renovation Plan includes the following:

·         A brand-new zero-depth entry leisure pool with six 25-yard lap lanes

·         A dynamic new spray ground for interactive water play

·         Four thrilling new water slides

·         A newly designed outdoor entrance to streamline access

·         A new concession building (with park access) and shaded seating areas

·         A new lifeguard office and first aid building for enhanced safety

·         Upgraded infrastructure, including equipment, piping, electrical systems, sanitation, water mains, and mechanical systems

·         All-new pool furniture and fixtures

·         Renovated locker rooms for improved comfort and accessibility

·         New rentable shelters and cabanas available during public hours

"This project is an exciting investment in our community’s future," said Paul Zepezauer, DeKalb Park District Executive Director. "We appreciate the public’s patience and support as we work through construction. The Board of Commissioners, staff, and the project team at IHC Construction and Larson & Darby Group have done an outstanding job navigating several complex issues. We look forward to wrapping up the permitting and contract process and moving into the building phase this summer. While we are disappointed that we will not have outdoor swimming at Hopkins Park this summer, we look forward to welcoming everyone back next summer. We’re confident that the new facility will serve residents for decades to come."

To help the community stay cool and enjoy outdoor water fun during the renovation, the DeKalb Park District will host a series of FREE Water Days at various neighborhood parks throughout the summer. Families are also encouraged to visit the free Splash Pad at Welsh Park, located at 651 Russell Road. It opens daily from 10:00 am to 7:00 pm Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day Weekend and offers interactive water features for all ages.

Community members are encouraged to stay informed and engaged throughout the construction process. To learn more about the project, view concept images, and read answers to frequently asked questions, visit dekalbparkdistrict.com/capital-improvement-projects. You can also visit dekalbparkdistrict.com/calendar to learn more about the free Water Days. 

The DeKalb Park District looks forward to unveiling a revitalized Hopkins Pool that reflects the community’s needs and vision. Hopkins Pool is anticipated to open in June 2026. Until then, the District thanks the DeKalb community for their patience, understanding, and continued support.