Construction begins on Sullivan Center expansion

Vernon Hills resident Holly Aronoff brought her 13-month-old son, Robinson, to the Sullivan Community Center in Vernon Hills so they could watch construction machines at work Tuesday.

"Little boys like big things that move. He is pointing at it and he is curious," Aronoff said as they watched a compact track loader picking up debris around the site. "We're watching the Bobcat, the digger, which is kind of interesting up close. We never get to see things this close."

The Vernon Hills Park District expansion project involves construction of a new central entrance/lobby area that will be more secure, a second gymnasium, four preschool classrooms to replace the three that are currently used, and an administrative section that would accommodate all of the park staff. The completed facility would be enlarged from 33,000 square feet to 50,000 square feet.

"They have been building interior walls, replacing hallways, and putting up some fencing," said Tom Ritter, the park district's superintendent of recreation. "Everyone is so excited about it. We are so in need of an additional gym. We are so in need of a better presentation point, welcome desk and bringing everyone together."

The goal is to have the project finished by mid-October, with the center open and operating during the construction process, including the continuation of preschool classes.

Vernon Hills Park District officials borrowed up to $6 million by issuing bonds bought by investors to expand and remodel the Sullivan Community Center on Aspen Drive.