Hopkins Park Pool Replacement Plan

Why does the DeKalb Park District need to replace the Hopkins Pool?

  • The current pool was built in 1974 and is now 35 years old. It was constructed to replace the District’s first pool which was built in 1936 and was operational for 38 years.
  • Pool repairs have continued to rise over the past five years.
  • The Park District utilized the firm of Williams Architect to conduct a facility audit in the fall of 2008. The entire report can be found on the Park District website:www.dekalbparkdistrict.com (public documents section)
  • The conclusion of the architects was that although the pool had been fairly well maintained, the facility was nearing the end of its useful life which is normally 30-40 years for an outdoor pool. Williams Architects did not recommend renovating the existing facility.

Why does the community need an aquatic center?

  • History has proven that swimming is important to the community. Hopkins Park has been home to an outdoor pool since 1936 and has provided summer enjoyment for all age groups.
  • Swimming is important to the health of the community. According to the National Sporting Goods Association in 2008, 63.5 million people or nearly 21% of the population engaged in this activity.
  • A new aquatic center will provide additional amenities which will be appealing to a broader age group while maintaining traditional features that have proven to be successful.

How did the Park District determine what should be included in a new Aquatic Center?

  • The Park District worked with the firms of PHN Architects and Bonestroo Architects, leaders in Aquatic design, to assist in the development of schematic plans for the replacement of Hopkins Pool.
  • Two community focus groups were held this past summer, along with a survey of actual pool users to determine their interest in various aquatic features.

Where will the new Aquatic Center be located?

  • The proposed facility would remain in Hopkins Park but would be located in the area of the existing tennis courts and maintenance shed. (Northeast of the current pool) on approximately six acres of land.
  • This location was chosen for its minimal impact to the park and trees while also providing better access and improved safety with the utilization of the Dresser Road traffic signal.

What features are proposed for the new Aquatic Facility?

  • A zero depth leisure pool which allows for easy access for all ages
  • Lap lanes for traditional swimming
  • Diving Boards
  • Water and Tube Slides
  • Lazy River
  • Tot Wading and Splash Pad Area
  • Sand Play
  • Ample shade and lounge areas
  • Support Buildings: Locker Rooms, Concessions and Mechanica
  • Area for future development

Why do we need all of these features in a new Aquatic Center?

  • The trend in the Aquatics is to include traditional swimming with water park features to attract a broader population.
  • An Aquatic Center designed for the entire family allows people to stay in the community for their leisure opportunities

What will happen to the existing Hopkins Pool and Community Center?

  • Hopkins Pool would remain open during the construction of a new Aquatic Center.
  • Upon completion, the pool would be demolished.
  • The Hopkins Community Center and Administrative Office would remain in use.

Are there any other proposed changes?

  • Access roads and parking will be improved to allow for drop off areas and better flow through the park.
  • The parking area for the pool will be easily accessible from the band shell to provide a safer route for individuals attending the summer concert program and other special events.
  • New tennis courts and basketball courts are being proposed in the area of the old pool.
  • Park lighting will also be improved.

How will the Park District fund the operations of the pool?

  • General operations will be funded through fees and charges and pass sales as is the case for the existing facility.
  • Non-residents will be charged a higher fee than residents.
  • Group outings for camps, pre-schools and other community groups will be available at special times and rates.
  • Fees and charges will be comparable to other public community aquatic centers.

What is the cost of the facility and when would it be built?

  • The proposed budget for the Aquatic Center is $15,000,000.
  • The proposed timeline is as follows: the development of construction documents beginning spring of 2010; competitive bidding of the project in the winter of 2010; construction beginning the spring of 2011 with completion summer of 2012.

How will the Park District finance the construction of a new Aquatic Facility?

  • The voters will be asked to consider a $15,000,000 referendum on February 2, 2010 to purchase bonds based on a •25 year maturity schedule.

How will this impact my taxes?

  • The tax impact, based on a 25 year maturity schedule is estimated as follows:

    • Market Value of Home Cost/Year Cost/Month
    $100,000 $46.58 $3.88
    $150,000 $69.87 $5.82
    $200,000 $93.16 $7.76
    $250,000 $116.45 $9.70
    $300,000 $139.74 $11.64
    $350,000 $163.02 $13.59

What will happen if the pool is not replaced?

  • Given the fact that the pool is approaching the end of its useful life, conditions will continue to deteriorate at which time repairs may no longer be feasible or possible.

Who can I contact if I have any questions regarding the replacement of the Hopkins Pool?

  • Questions can be directed to Executive Director Cindy Capek at: 815-758-6663 x 124, or by email at ccapek@dekalbparkdistrict.com.
  • If your group or organization is interested in a presentation on the proposed pool replacement plans, the District would be happy to do so. Please call 815-758-6663 x 124 to arrange for a presentation.
  • A public informational meeting will be held at the Hopkins Park Community Center Terrace Room, 1403 Sycamore • Road, on January 13, 2010, 6:30PM.
  • Assisting with the meeting will be the Architectural Firm of PHN, and First Trust, Bond Underwriters.