Palatine Park District is in the process of installing 68 new parking stalls, 6 outdoor pickleball courts with lighting, and an extension of the Palatine Trail that will run around the edge of the reservoir to the existing looped pathway surrounding Gbur Sports Fields at Hamilton Reservoir.
In November 2018, construction was suspended earlier than expected due to winter storms that came through the Palatine area. Prior to the halt of work, the excavation of the parking lot expansion, detention basin, and pickleball area was completed along with most of the sub base. Pickleball perimeter fence posts were also installed prior to the winter shut down.
In early Spring when the area dries up, work will resume to complete the parking lot and the installation of drainage pipes from the lot expansion and pickleball courts to the detention basin. This work will include concrete curbing along the perimeter of the pickleball courts and parking lot, and the installation of new lighting fixtures.
Once the area has been paved with asphalt, the pickleball courts must sit for 30 days before work can be completed with color coating. It is projected that the whole project will be completed in July 2019, thereafter, a grand opening will be held to celebrate the new outdoor recreation space.
About the Author • Todd Ranum, CPRP
Todd Ranum is a Certified Park and Recreation Professional and has been the Athletic Coordinator for Palatine Park District since 2001 where he supervises District sponsored youth and adult athletic programs and leagues. Todd serves on several committees, including Eastern Illinois University Recreation Administration Advisory Board and Illinois Park and Recreation Association‘s Athletic Committee.