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New Building, New Name: Leisure Center Closing For Renovation In Northbrook
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Published in Travel and Leisure on Wednesday, July 30th 2025 at 14:53 GMT by Patch🞛 This publication is a summary or evaluation of another publication 🞛 This publication contains editorial commentary or bias from the source
The $12.1 million project is scheduled to be completed in spring 2026, according to the Northbrook Park District.
Northbrook's Leisure Center Set for Major Overhaul: Closure, Renovation, and Rebirth as Community Hub
NORTHBROOK, IL – In a move that promises to revitalize recreational opportunities for residents, the Northbrook Park District has announced the temporary closure of its longstanding Leisure Center for an extensive renovation project. The facility, a cornerstone of community life since its opening in the 1970s, will shut its doors later this month to undergo a transformation that includes a complete overhaul, expansion, and even a new name. When it reopens in late 2025, the center will emerge as the Northbrook Community Center, symbolizing a fresh chapter in the village's commitment to health, wellness, and social engagement.
The decision to renovate comes after years of planning and community input, addressing the aging infrastructure of the building located at 3323 Walters Avenue. Originally constructed in 1976, the Leisure Center has served generations of Northbrook families, hosting everything from swim lessons and fitness classes to senior programs and youth sports. However, park district officials have noted that the facility has reached a point where patchwork repairs are no longer sufficient to meet modern demands. "We've listened to our residents, and it's clear that they want a space that's not just functional but inspiring," said Molly Hamer, executive director of the Northbrook Park District, in a recent statement. "This renovation isn't just about fixing what's broken; it's about building a future where everyone in our community can thrive."
The scope of the project is ambitious, with a price tag estimated at around $20 million, funded through a combination of district reserves, grants, and a referendum-approved bond issue from 2022. Key features of the renovation include a significant expansion of the building's footprint, adding approximately 15,000 square feet of new space. This will allow for the introduction of state-of-the-art amenities designed to cater to a diverse range of ages and interests. Among the highlights are an upgraded aquatic center with a zero-depth entry pool, water slides, and enhanced lap lanes to accommodate both recreational swimmers and competitive teams. The fitness area will be doubled in size, featuring the latest cardio and strength-training equipment, dedicated spaces for group exercise classes like yoga and spin, and even a wellness studio for mindfulness and recovery programs.
Beyond fitness and aquatics, the renovation plans emphasize community gathering spaces. A new multipurpose gymnasium will support basketball, volleyball, and pickleball, with flexible configurations for events such as indoor markets or community fairs. Family-friendly additions include an expanded preschool area with interactive play zones and educational components, as well as a teen lounge equipped with gaming consoles, study nooks, and social areas to encourage positive youth development. Seniors will benefit from dedicated programming rooms for activities like bridge clubs, art classes, and health seminars, ensuring the center remains inclusive for all demographics.
Sustainability is a core focus of the project, aligning with Northbrook's broader environmental goals. The renovated building will incorporate energy-efficient systems, including solar panels on the roof, LED lighting throughout, and advanced HVAC systems to reduce the facility's carbon footprint. Landscaping around the center will feature native plants and rain gardens to promote biodiversity and manage stormwater runoff. "We're not just building for today; we're thinking about the next 50 years," Hamer explained. "Incorporating green technologies will help us operate more efficiently and set an example for sustainable community development."
The closure, scheduled to begin on September 30, 2023, will last approximately 18 to 24 months, with the grand reopening targeted for fall 2025. During this period, the park district has outlined a comprehensive plan to minimize disruptions to ongoing programs. Many activities will be relocated to other district facilities, such as the Northbrook Sports Center, the Techny Prairie Activity Center, and various neighborhood parks. For instance, swim lessons and aquatic fitness classes will shift to the Sports Center's pool, while group exercise sessions will be hosted at temporary venues like local schools or rented spaces. The district is also partnering with neighboring communities, including Glenview and Deerfield, to provide access to their facilities for Northbrook residents at discounted rates.
To keep the community informed and engaged, the park district has launched a dedicated renovation website and will host monthly virtual town halls. Residents can track progress through live construction cams and newsletters, ensuring transparency throughout the process. "We understand that change can be challenging, especially for those who rely on the Leisure Center as part of their daily routine," said board president Mary Ann Chambers. "That's why we've prioritized seamless transitions and are offering free shuttle services to alternative locations for seniors and families without transportation."
The renovation project has its roots in a 2021 community needs assessment, which surveyed over 2,000 residents and revealed strong support for updating the Leisure Center. Feedback highlighted desires for more family-oriented spaces, improved accessibility for people with disabilities, and enhanced technology integration, such as app-based class reservations and virtual fitness options. The new name, Northbrook Community Center, was chosen to reflect this broader vision, moving away from the "leisure" moniker to emphasize its role as a hub for connection and vitality. "It's more than a name change; it's a rebranding that captures the essence of what this place will become—a true community anchor," Chambers added.
Historically, the Leisure Center has been more than just a recreational spot; it's been a lifeline during tough times. During the COVID-19 pandemic, it adapted to offer outdoor fitness classes and virtual programming, helping residents maintain their physical and mental health. Longtime users like retiree Susan Klein, who has attended water aerobics classes for over a decade, express mixed emotions about the closure. "I'll miss my routine, but I'm excited for the upgrades. The new pool sounds amazing, and it'll be worth the wait," Klein shared in an interview.
Looking ahead, the revamped center is expected to boost local economy and quality of life. District officials project an increase in membership and program enrollment, potentially generating additional revenue to support other park initiatives. It could also attract visitors from surrounding areas, fostering regional partnerships. For families like the Johnsons, who use the center for after-school activities, the renovation represents hope for the future. "Our kids have grown up here, and we're looking forward to the next generation enjoying an even better version," said parent Emily Johnson.
As construction crews prepare to take over, the Northbrook Park District is encouraging residents to participate in farewell events at the Leisure Center throughout September. These include open houses, memory-sharing sessions, and special classes to celebrate the facility's legacy. "This isn't goodbye; it's see you later," Hamer concluded. "We're investing in our community's heart, and the result will be a space that brings us all together stronger than ever."
The project underscores a growing trend in suburban communities investing in public infrastructure to combat urban sprawl and promote wellness. In Northbrook, where green spaces and recreational facilities are prized, this renovation could set a benchmark for others. With careful planning and community buy-in, the transition from Leisure Center to Northbrook Community Center promises to deliver a modern, inclusive, and sustainable asset that will serve residents for decades to come.
In the meantime, the park district urges patience and participation. For updates, residents can visit the district's website or sign up for email alerts. As Northbrook embarks on this exciting journey, the closure marks the end of an era but the beginning of something even greater—a vibrant community center poised to inspire health, connection, and joy for all.
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