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Hinsdale approves Burlington Park pavilion plan; fundraising framework discussed
Summary
Trustees approved the exterior appearance and site plan for a new Burlington Park pavilion and discussed donor letters of intent, including commitments from UChicago Medicine AdventHealth Hinsdale Hospital, the Hinsdale Chamber of Commerce, and Hinsdale Bank & Trust; final donation agreements and bid details will be developed.
The Hinsdale Board of Trustees voted April 14 to approve the exterior appearance plan and site plan for a pavilion at Burlington Park, moving forward a project trustees said is designed to honor the village’s historic architectural character while supporting future community performances and gatherings.
Trustee Stifler and members of the working group described design elements that echo Memorial Hall — including a gable front roof, cupola, Chippendale railing and optional natural slate roofing — and said the structure would be roughly 20 by 30 feet with an elevated brick foundation to match historic details. The design also includes a vaulted ceiling for improved acoustics for musical performances.
Trustees and working group members discussed fundraising: participants referenced three principal donor commitments that are being formalized through letters of intent and forthcoming donation agreements. During remarks the working group cited a proposed contribution from the Hinsdale Chamber of Commerce described during the meeting as $100,000, a commitment from Hinsdale Bank & Trust discussed as $25,000, and a pledge from UChicago Medicine AdventHealth Hinsdale Hospital to fund up to 50 percent of the project cost capped at $350,000; meeting speakers emphasized that final terms and naming rights remain subject to formal donation agreements.
Trustee Bradington and others emphasized attention to historic materials and landscaping so the pavilion complements the memorial building and park sightlines. Trustees noted bid specifications will request natural slate roofing and rounded column corners if costs allow; if not, the board authorized flexibility to adjust materials during the bid award process.
The ordinance to approve the plan passed by roll call (all ayes).
Why it matters: The pavilion provides a permanent, architecturally consistent venue for community performances and reflects a public‑private fundraising approach; the board cited broad community support and several donors that have already committed or indicated interest.
What’s next: Staff will finalize donation agreements, refine bid specifications, and return with bid results and any budget updates for review; the board approved site and appearance plans but will consider costs and donor agreements before construction begins.
