Plan to replace Wheeling’s landmark fountain progressing
A suburban company with a history of celebrated public projects will manage construction of a new, $5 million fountain near a prominent Wheeling intersection.
The Wheeling village board Monday agreed to hire Featherstone Inc. of Downers Grove to oversee the project in Friendship Park, at the northeast corner of Dundee Road and Milwaukee Avenue. The firm will be paid more than $413,000 for its work.
The existing fountain at Friendship Park quickly became a landmark in town after it was built in 2001. It’s become a popular spot to take photographs.
Unfortunately, the structure has significant leaks. Maintenance is both difficult and costly, officials have said.
“The fountain is being run with duct tape and staples,” Trustee Jim Ruffatto said. “Just trying to put a Band-Aid on it is not the way to go.”
Trustees unanimously approved the Featherstone contract without discussion at Monday’s meeting.
Featherstone’s suburban curriculum vitae is extensive. The company’s award-winning work can be found at Cantigny Park in Wheaton, Morton Arboretum in Lisle, the Wauconda Area Library, and the Aspen Drive Library in Vernon Hills, among other venues.
The Featherstone agreement is the second significant fountain-related contract the village board has approved this summer. Last month, trustees inked a $324,700 contract with Kimley-Horn and Associates — an engineering, planning and development firm with offices across North America — to finalize the fountain’s design.
A fountain comprising several circular pools is planned. At the center will be an obelisk emblazoned with a large, decorative W.
Seating areas, a decorative structure and large planters also are planned.
Construction is expected to begin in 2027.
rlissau@dailyherald.com