Wheeling’s landmark fountain to be replaced next year

Twenty-five years after a cascading, stone fountain became an instant landmark at a prominent Wheeling intersection, plans for a new water feature there are taking shape.

The village board on Monday is expected to approve a contract with Kimley-Horn and Associates for the final design and development of a fountain at Friendship Park, at the northeast corner of Milwaukee Avenue and Dundee Road. The firm already developed preliminary plans.

Construction is anticipated to begin in 2027. The project has a $5 million budget.

The existing fountain, which was completed in 2001, is suffering from “significant and increasing water leakage,” Public Works Director Daniel Kaup said in a memo. Officials decided to pursue building a new fountain because maintaining and repairing the current one is costly.

“The rebuild is going to be cheaper than the rehab would have been,” Village President Pat Horcher said.

An advisory committee consisting of trustees and other village officials has recommended a design developed by Kimley-Horn.

A fountain comprising several circular pools is planned. The main pool will have more spray features than the others as well as an obelisk emblazoned with a large, decorative W.

The village’s name will be displayed within a railing in the center of the layout, overlooking some of the pools.

Seating areas, a decorative structure and large planters also are planned.

Toronto company Crystal Fountains and Chicago firm Hugh Lighting Design will serve as consultants on the project, documents indicate.

The contract awaiting board approval Monday concerns necessary architectural and design work and construction services. Kimley-Horn will be paid $324,700 for this latest phase of the project, documents indicate.

The item is included in a section of the meeting reserved for routine matters. No discussion is planned.

Monday’s meeting is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. at village hall, 2 Community Blvd. The meeting will be open to the public and livestreamed on the village’s YouTube channel, @wheelingiltv.