5 Must-See New Lenox Park District Updates: The 2025 Projects That Are Changing Community Life
The New Lenox Community Park District (NLCPD) is currently undergoing one of its most transformative periods, with a flurry of major projects and facility enhancements that are redefining local recreation for residents in Will County, Illinois. As of late December 2025, the district has successfully completed the grand opening of a major new park, launched a significant renovation at a popular community spot, and secured millions in grant funding to ensure the quality of life continues to improve across the Village of New Lenox and New Lenox Township. This deep dive explores the freshest updates, newest facilities, and key entities driving the NLCPD's success.
The commitment to providing state-of-the-art recreational opportunities is evident in the NLCPD's strategic planning and successful pursuit of external funding. From new athletic fields to specialized social spaces for youth, the district’s efforts in 2025 have positioned it as a leader in Illinois park management, even earning a top financial reporting honor for its fiscal year end (FYE) statements for 2025.
NLCPD Leadership and Governance: The Board of Commissioners
The strategic vision and financial oversight for the New Lenox Community Park District are managed by a dedicated Board of Commissioners. This body is responsible for approving the budget, setting policy, and ensuring all community needs are met through responsible governance and planning.
- President: Ted Schulz
- Vice President: Brian Fischer
- Secretary: Dale Larson
- Treasurer: Garry Kraemer
- Commissioner: Mark Ott
The financial health of the district remains strong, a fact underscored by the release of the FYE-Financial Statements 2025 and the receipt of a Top Financial Reporting Honor. Furthermore, the NLCPD has been highly successful in securing funding for capital projects, including over $2.4 million from Open Space Land Acquisition and Development (OSLAD) grants, which are crucial for facility enhancements.
The 2025 Park Development Boom: Water Chase and Sharon's Bay
The year 2025 will be remembered for two major park developments that have significantly expanded the district’s offerings: the grand opening of a brand-new facility and the major renovation of a beloved local park.
1. Water Chase Park Grand Opening: A New Hub for Pickleball and Kickball
The most exciting ribbon-cutting of the year took place on June 5, 2025, with the official grand opening of Water Chase Park. This new community asset immediately became a popular destination, particularly for racquet sports enthusiasts.
The park’s main features include:
- Four state-of-the-art pickleball courts, catering to the rapidly growing popularity of the sport.
- Dedicated kickball facilities for organized leagues and casual play.
The development of Water Chase Park was partially supported by the strategic use of the OSLAD grant program, demonstrating the district's ability to leverage state funding for local benefit.
2. Sharon's Bay Park: Major Renovation and "Tween Central" Launch
Starting July 1, 2025, Sharon's Bay Park temporarily closed its asphalt path and other areas to begin a major, highly anticipated renovation project. This redevelopment is funded by a $600,000 OSLAD Grant awarded in 2024, ensuring the park remains a modern and relevant community space.
The extensive upgrades at Sharon's Bay Park are designed to cater to a wider age range and include:
- A new high school regulation basketball court.
- An upgraded volleyball court.
- The addition of an innovative “Tween Central Social” area, a specialized space designed for pre-teens and younger teenagers.
The project is currently moving forward, with a contractor selected and a bid date of June 10, 2025, indicating that the district is on track to deliver a completely revitalized park experience.
3. Expanding Horizons: Hibernia Park and Comprehensive Facilities
The NLCPD's commitment to continuous improvement extends beyond the two largest projects. The district manages a wide array of parks and facilities, ensuring every resident has access to quality recreation near their home.
The Hibernia Park Phase II Project
Another significant OSLAD grant, totaling $400,000, was awarded to the NLCPD for the Phase II updates at Hibernia Park. Hibernia Park is one of the district’s most frequented parks, and these updates will further enhance its amenities, maintaining its status as a premier community gathering spot.
A Network of Parks and Athletic Fields
The topical authority of the New Lenox Community Park District is built on its extensive network of green spaces and dedicated facilities, which serve not only the Village of New Lenox but also the wider New Lenox Township. Key locations include:
- Crossroads Sports Complex: A major regional destination for organized sports.
- Bentley/Tyler Athletic Fields: Essential for local leagues and sports programming.
- Aerohaven Park: Providing local green space and play areas.
- Bristol Park & Cherry Hill Park: Offering diverse amenities to neighborhood residents.
- The main NLCPD Office is located at 701 West Haven Avenue, serving as the administrative and registration hub.
4. 2025-2026 Programs and Community Life
Parks are only one part of the equation; the NLCPD’s program offerings are the lifeblood of the community. The district ensures year-round engagement with a diverse catalog of activities, classes, and events.
Upcoming Registration and Program Highlights
The current focus is on the registration for the Winter-Spring 2025-26 Program Guide. The key dates for residents to mark on their calendars are:
- Resident Registration: Begins Monday, December 8, 2025.
- Nonresident Registration: Begins Monday, December 15, 2025.
These guides cover a vast range of activities, from adult fitness classes to youth sports leagues, ensuring that everyone in the Chicago Southland region has an opportunity to participate.
Essential Community Programs
The district is also a cornerstone for family support and early childhood development, offering critical services such as:
- Preschool Classes: Designed to develop social, emotional, and physical skills for school readiness.
- Before and After School Care Program: Providing a safe, supervised, and enriching environment for school-age children.
Facility Rentals and Special Events
The NLCPD facilities are available to the public for various needs, further integrating the district into local life. Available rentals include:
- Room Rentals for meetings and small events.
- Banquet Rentals for larger community celebrations.
- Park Rentals and Splash Pad Rental for summer parties and gatherings.
Additionally, the NLCPD proudly celebrated Park and Recreation Month 2025 in July, highlighting the significant contributions parks and recreation make to the health and vitality of the community.
5. The Future of Recreation in New Lenox
The New Lenox Community Park District is not resting on its 2025 successes. With a strong financial foundation, a dedicated Board of Commissioners, and a proven track record of securing competitive OSLAD grants, the future of parks and recreation in New Lenox looks exceptionally bright. The continuous redevelopment of aging parks like Sharon's Bay and Hibernia Park, combined with the creation of new facilities like Water Chase Park, demonstrates a proactive approach to meeting the evolving needs of the community. Residents can look forward to even more opportunities for sports, fitness, and community engagement in the years to come, solidifying the NLCPD's role as a vital part of the local government structure.
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