Grayslake unveils its new recreation center

Laura Schlemm can think of at least three reasons why she loves living in Grayslake. And one reason why she doesn't.

With its bike trails, swimming pool and library, the village makes a perfect home for Schlemm and her family.

But she has found the park district lacking.

Until now.

Grayslake Park District held its grand opening Sunday for its new recreation center at 240 Commerce Drive, near Center Street and Atkinson Road.

The 18,000-square-foot center -- the village's first recreation facility.

"I normally would pick up a program from the Round Lake Beach parks department to see what they were offering," Schlemm said. "It is nice to see that maybe now, I can stay in my own community."

Schlemm was one of about 200 people to attend Sunday's grand opening, which included activities and demonstrations such as fitness, yoga, sports and children's games.

Last year, park officials approved spending $1.8 million to buy the former Sport Gym and After School Club building.

The park district committed another $900,000 to redo the structure so it could be used as a rec center.

The center includes a full-size gymnasium, meeting area, two multipurpose rooms, two preschool rooms and a dance studio.

Beginning today, a playground will be constructed just outside the preschool rooms. Kristin Splitt, superintendent of recreation, expects the project will be completed in about two weeks.

Administrative offices have also been moved from the village's former police department in downtown Grayslake to the center.

Splitt said the center will accommodate many of the districts 1,200 programs, and provide more control. Until now, all of the programs have been held in schools and churches and often at the mercy of the facility's schedule.

The district owns the lot next to the rec center and could add a second phase as the community grows, Splitt said

"Right now, we've done this without raising taxes," she said. "Phase two would take a referendum. We just want the community to come out and experience what we already have."