The Elmhurst Park District’s voter-approved referendum in November 2024 launched a major investment in the future of parks and recreation in Elmhurst. Throughout 2025, the District advanced the six referendum projects designed to meet growing community needs and provide enhanced amenities for all ages. These include a new Wagner Community Center, four permanent heated restroom buildings, conversion of a grass field in Berens Park to artificial turf, and a new community bandshell in Wilder Park.
Together, these investments will shape the future of recreation and community gathering for decades to come.
A new Wagner Community Center
The cornerstone of the referendum is the new Wagner Community Center. This modern facility will be four times the size of the current building and will include a free indoor walking/jogging track for residents, indoor turf, gymnasiums, flexible program spaces, expanded dance and gymnastics areas, a dedicated early childhood wing, and an indoor play space.
The former building, originally constructed as a school in the 1950s, was repurposed into a community center in 2003. While it served the community for many years, demand for indoor recreation space has steadily increased. In 2022 alone, more than 5,600 participants were placed on program waitlists. A comprehensive needs assessment survey confirmed that expanded indoor facilities were a top priority for residents. The new community center is designed to directly address these needs and support future growth.
Design development for the building was completed in spring and summer of 2025. This work included schematic designs, exterior elevations, and interior finishes, offering residents their first look at the future facility. A groundbreaking was held in early December, and construction work is now underway. The new community center is expected to open in fall 2027.
Programs During Construction
Many activities were temporarily relocated to other facilities within the Park District this fall to ensure programs continue seamlessly during construction.
The Park Board approved a lease at 185 Industrial Drive earlier this year to provide additional space for dance and gymnastics. The site was renovated to provide dance studios, a gymnastics center, staff offices and a welcoming registration area. Dance and gymnastics participants arrived to the building in December. Until the new Wagner Community Center opens, this facility will help ensure participants can continue to learn, move and grow without interruption.
Permanent Heated Restrooms
Providing permanent heated restroom facilities year-round was a major priority identified by the community, and progress on these projects is well underway. Once completed, these restrooms will be opened daily and locked each night.
- Crestview Park - Following community feedback opportunities, including open houses and a survey, the Park Board approved a new master plan for Crestview Park last summer. The plan includes the addition of a permanent heated restroom building, construction of which is anticipated in 2026 during Phase 1 implementation of the master plan. View the full master plan on the project website.
- Eldridge Park - In September, the Eldridge Park restroom building was the first referendum project to break ground. Located along Spring Road near the playground and soccer fields, the restroom is near many Eldridge amenities. The project is nearing completion and is expected to open in late 2025 or early 2026.
- Prairie Path - Trail users will also benefit from a new permanent heated restroom, offering a reliable amenity for walkers, runners, cyclists, and families. Following an October public open house and survey, which garnered more than 1,000 responses, a final location will be selected early next year, with construction also planned for 2026.
Artificial Turf Field Conversion
At Berens Park, the conversion of an existing grass field to artificial turf (just south of the Wagner Community Center) will include a full-size soccer field, a 60-by-40 youth field, shade structures, and seating for players and spectators. Multiple field striping will accommodate a variety of play levels, expanding recreational opportunities for all ages and abilities. The new turf will extend the playing season and reduce weather-related closures, particularly during wet spring conditions.
The site is now fully fenced as construction begins, with the field expected to open in late 2027.
Community Bandshell
A new community bandshell in Wilder Park will host concerts, performances, events, and community gatherings. The project also includes a permanent heated restroom.
The bandshell is being considered as part of a larger master plan for the south end of the park, which includes the former Lizzadro museum site. Throughout this year, District staff collaborated with design firms to develop concept plans and gather extensive community feedback through open houses and surveys. This feedback has played a vital role in shaping the design and bandshell location.
Next steps for the master plan will take place in January. The bandshell and accompanying restroom building are expected to be completed in 2027, bringing vibrancy and expanded event opportunities to the community.
The District looks forward to continuing steady progress on these referendum projects in 2026. Each initiative represents a meaningful investment in the community’s future and reflects the priorities shared by residents. As the District looks forward to continuing this momentum, it also plans to continue providing regular updates as construction advances. For the latest project updates, please visit epd.org/referendum.
