Permanent heated restroom along the Prairie Path

A brick restroom building with two dark doors, a water fountain and billboards
Progress
Project Started
Anticipated Completion Date
2026
Project Budget
$500,000
Project Summary

A permanent, heated restroom along the Prairie Path will give park users access to safe, clean restrooms year-round. 

This project falls under the Elevate Elmhurst Parks Priority of Invigorated Parks.

Project Progress

 

Latest Project Report

  • Construction permits filed.
  • Both projects approved by the City of Elmhurst Zoning and Planning Commission, Development, Planning and Zoning Committee, and City Council.
    • Crestview - Conditional Use Permit
    • Prairie Path - Setback Variance
  • Issued for bid on July 29 and recommended contractors will be brought to Park Board on September 14.

2026 Mid-Year Progress Report

The Park Board approved the Prairie Path restroom location following a public open house and survey. It will be located along Spring Road near the gazebo. Pre-construction activities, including permit submissions to the City of Elmhurst and DuPage County and underground utility locating, are complete. Construction is expected to begin this fall and wrap up in early 2027.

Milestone Timeline (subject to change)

  • Winter 2026: Staff recommend, and Board approve, location of Prairie Path restroom
  • Spring 2026: Begin design and permitting for Prairie Path restroom building
  • Summer 2026: Complete design and permitting for Prairie Path restroom building
  • Fall 2026: Begin construction of Prairie Path restroom building
  • 2027: Complete construction of Prairie Path restroom building

Project News

An aerial view of the Wagner construction site with various heavy machinery, trucks, and vehicles scattered across the cleared land.
Updated Friday, August 28, 2026 - 12:22pm

Referendum Projects begin making an impact

The Elmhurst Park District is making substantial progress on the six remaining referendum projects and looks forward to maintaining momentum as the year continues. The projects, approved by a November 2024 referendum, are designed to meet growing community needs and enhance recreational opportunities for residents of all ages.

Aerial view of a gravel path surrounded by trees and a suburban neighborhood. The sunset is in the background.
Updated Friday, August 28, 2026 - 2:31pm

Elmhurst Park Board approves Spring Road location for new heated restroom along Prairie Path

At its January 26, 2026 Board Meeting, the Park Board approved placement of a new heated restroom building along the Prairie Path near the gazebo at Spring Road. Construction on the project is expected to begin this summer and wrap up by the end of the year.

Rendering of a building with a sloped roofline, large glass windows and American flag pole in the center.
Updated Friday, August 28, 2026 - 2:36pm

A year of momentum: Advancing the referendum projects

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.

Green banner for the Prairie Path Permanent Restroom Survey, featuring Elmhurst Park District and Elevate Elmhurst Parks logos and the words “PRAIRIE PATH PERMANENT RESTROOM SURVEY”.
Updated Monday, August 31, 2026 - 12:25pm

Take the Prairie Path Permanent Restroom Survey

Following the voter-approved bond referendum in November 2024, the Park District is moving ahead with plans to construct a permanent, heated restroom near the Prairie Path. The facility will give trail users access to safe, clean, heated restrooms year-round, whether you're biking, running, walking your dog, or out for a stroll. We’re looking for your input! Help choose where the restroom will be constructed on the Prairie Path by taking our short survey.
“Prairie Path Permanent Restroom Open House” with “Tue, Oct 21 • 5:30–7 pm” and location “Wilder Mansion,” over a background of trees and neighborhood streets, with logos for Elmhurst Park District and Elevate Elmhurst Parks.
Updated Monday, August 31, 2026 - 12:28pm

Prairie Path Permanent Restroom Open House

You voted yes! Now help choose where the Permanent Heated Restroom will be constructed on the Prairie Path. Stop by the upcoming Open House to provide your feedback.