Wheeling Park District embarks on $17 million rec center expansion

Construction will begin soon on a roughly $17 million expansion and renovation at the Wheeling Park District recreation center.

Zion-based Camosy Construction, which is managing the project, will begin work by early May to add a gymnasium, enlarge the fitness center and renovate existing facilities at 333 W. Dundee Road. The project will take about 16 months to complete, officials said.

"Our residents and guests have voiced a strong desire for more gymnasium space, an expanded fitness center, space to accommodate Village of Wheeling senior programs and additional larger program areas," Executive Director Jan Buchs said. "It is our responsibility to meet the needs of the community. From their input and feedback, we have developed a plan and are very excited to start construction."

The project will add about 42,000 square feet to the 77,000-square-foot building.

With several new apartment developments under construction along Dundee Road, including the Wheeling Town Center, the park district has determined the facility is undersized. The village's senior programming also has relocated to the recreation center.

Camosy will start with installing fences and performing earthwork on the north and northeast exterior of the building. That's where the gymnasium and fitness center will be added during the first phase of construction.

Soon after, interior work will start with a temporary facility entrance and guest service desk so that demolition can begin. The recreation center will remain open throughout construction to allow programming and services to continue.

The enlarged fitness center will provide more workout machines, areas for stretching and personal training, space for group exercise and new locker rooms. A separate entrance into the fitness area will potentially allow the park district to increase hours of operation.

A second gym will allow the park district to provide more open gym time and additional space for leagues and tournaments.

A majority of funding will come from a capital projects reserve fund, and the park district will not seek a referendum or tax increase to pay for the project.

The recreation center opened in 1994 and last underwent renovations with the addition of a fitness center and pool in 2000.

A groundbreaking ceremony is set for 6 p.m. May 7.