Project Background
Have you ever looked at the former water treatment plant and wondered if it could be adapted as a beach amenity? Or, considered how the beach could be enhanced to better fit the needs of beachgoers? In response to the community's interest to improve the beach experience, we are excited to announce that the project design process is beginning! This step of the Beach Improvement Project builds upon analysis and resident survey data that was gathered before the pandemic paused our work. Right now we are in the project scoping phase for improvements and hope to begin the design process very soon.
To help navigate this effort, an ad-hoc Lakefront Planning Group was formed comprised of residents and representatives from the Village Board of Trustees, Plan Commission, Sailing Club and Kenilworth Park District. The Lakefront Planning Group will work to evaluate and develop recommendations for the future of the beach, as well as the use of the former water treatment plant, as a framework for design efforts.
In concert with the Lakefront Planning Group's work, the Village Board recently engaged Woodhouse Tinucci Architects for architectural and design services for the lakefront and former water treatment plant. Chicago-based Woodhouse Tinucci has extensive experience working along the lakefront with municipalities and park districts to enhance it for public use. The firm's design prowess was demonstrated during a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) process where they stood out with a design approach that blended with surrounds, an understanding of the appropriate project scale, and strong bench of professionals from various disciplines.
Project Overview
Now that a design firm has been secured, Phase I of the Beach Improvement Project has begun in earnest. Phase I of the project will focus on the programming and schematic design of improvements. Current lakefront plans envision water plant renovations, improvements to the Kenilworth Sailing Club, and shore protection. Development of construction documents, bidding and construction review are anticipated as part of Phase II of the project should the Village decide to move forward.
As the project gets started, a timeline with key dates will be shared here. Public input is an important component of this project, and there will be opportunities to share feedback throughout the process. Email beach@vok.org with questions, or call us at (847) 251-1666. The public is also encouraged to stay abreast of project updates by signing up for website notifications. To do this, click on the "Notify Me" tab on the left side of the page, and follow the prompts to subscribe. Be sure to select the "Beach Improvement Project" page to receive alerts. You can also subscribe to the "Kenilworth Village Calendar" to receive updates when agendas for public meetings are posted.
Upcoming Meetings
To stay up to date on upcoming meetings, please sign up for "Beach Improvement Project" notifications through the "Notify Me" tab on the left side of the page.
