The Illinois Park & Recreation Association announced the Park Ridge Park District’s Oakton Sports Complex is the winner of the Outstanding Facility & Park Award. The IPRA Outstanding Park and Facility Award is presented to public agencies for outstanding and unique achievements in the design and development of new or renovated recreation parks and facilities.
The Oakton Sports Complex Project was undertaken by the Park Ridge Park District with the clear purpose of revitalizing a key community asset, Oakton Park’s indoor recreation facilities, while aligning it with the evolving needs of today’s residents and preserving its legacy for future generations. The project sought to address critical infrastructure needs while significantly broadening recreational opportunities for all ages and interests.
At the heart of the initiative was the 53-year-old Oakton Ice Arena, located at 2800 W. Oakton, which was a facility beloved by generations of skaters but increasingly challenged by outdated systems and accessibility limitations. The ice arena’s mechanical system relied on R-22 refrigerant, which was phased out of production in 2020 due to its ozone-depleting properties. The mechanical systems, ice floor, dasher boards, and building envelope had all exceeded their useful life. The project’s purpose was therefore not only to protect and extend the life of this essential facility but also to ensure compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the Illinois Accessibility Code (IAC), making the facility fully inclusive and welcoming to all.
Beyond renovation, the Park District recognized a community-driven opportunity to expand and enhance recreation services at Oakton Park. Through surveys, stakeholder meetings, and public engagement sessions, residents consistently identified a year-round indoor turf field as their top recreation priority. By incorporating this flexible multi-sport space, along with a new studio ice rink, multipurpose rooms, athletic training room, walking track, concessions operations with an outdoor patio, expanded parking, and new outdoor gathering areas, the project aimed to transform Oakton Park into a year-round destination for recreation, health, and community connection.
The project underwent a five-year planning process (2017–2022), which included a delay due to the pandemic, before being placed on the November 2022 ballot for a $33.4 million referendum. After funding approval, the architectural drawings, bidding, and coordination of this massive project began. The District broke ground in March 2024, beginning an 18-month construction process, and the facility opened to the public as planned in August 2025.
Ultimately, the Oakton Sports Complex Project reflects the Park Ridge Park District’s mission to enhance community life by providing safe, accessible, and high-quality recreation opportunities. It responds to urgent maintenance needs, incorporates strong community input, and demonstrates forward-thinking design that meets today’s expectations and tomorrow’s challenges, all while maintaining the character and legacy of Oakton Park as a place where generations gather, play, and thrive.
Thoughtful planning and community support has resulted in a new, award-winning facility in Park Ridge.