Hinsdale details $1.22 million plan to replace children’s pool; residents press for screening and landscaping

Trustee Fisher presented a first reading April 14 on a plan to replace the Hinsdale Community Pool’s children’s activity pool with a modern, accessible design estimated at $1,224,500.

The proposal, designed by Frank Parisi of Williams Architects, would replace the basin and deck within the existing footprint and add a 0‑depth entry, a wet deck area with play features (slides, spray tunnel, fountains), improved lifeguard sightlines and shade structures. Trustee Fisher said the project meets IDPH and ADA guidelines and incorporates resident feedback from the village pool user survey.

Staff and the architect emphasized efforts to value‑engineer the work to avoid costly mechanical upgrades and to blend colors and landscaping with the environment. Construction is anticipated to begin in 2026 and conclude in time for the 2027 pool season, subject to project bidding and funding.

Resident Tapan Desai, who lives at 204 South Thurlow, raised concerns that the current plan would remove an existing trellis and arborvitae and replace them with large umbrellas without a defined landscaping plan, which he said could shift the area away from a residential character. Staff said landscaping and screening (evergreens, ornamental grasses and perennials) are on the checklist and they will work with nearby residents as the project nears construction.

Staff also said grant funds for pool repairs and infrastructure have been allocated and the village is in a position to apply; final supplemental funds and bid results will determine the village’s out‑of‑pocket costs.

Next steps: the design will move to bid and staff will bring back bid results, funding recommendations and a proposed schedule for construction.