Skokie Park District Puts $53M Referendum On Ballot For 2 Park Projects

SKOKIE, IL — Skokie voters will decide in the Nov. 3 general election whether to approve a $53 million, 20-year bond referendum for improvements to Sports Park East and development of a new Channelside Park South.

The Skokie Park District board of commissioners voted 5-0 Tuesday night to place the measure on the ballot after reviewing the results of a commissioned survey of registered voters and hearing public comments. According to the Park District, 54 percent of people who completed the survey responded either “decidedly yes” or “probably yes” when asked about voting for the referendum.

The proposed project would transform an undeveloped asphalt site into Channelside Park South and improve Skokie Sports Park and Sports Park East. The Park District said the work is intended to enhance indoor and outdoor recreation opportunities while strengthening connections between both parks and the North Shore Channel Trail.

Plans for Channelside Park South include expansive green space, scenic paths and natural landscapes, along with an accessible playground and outdoor fitness equipment. The proposal also includes a renovated multipurpose facility, plus a bandshell and event lawn.

At Skokie Sports Park and Sports Park East, the Park District said the project would expand and improve year-round recreation, sports and fitness opportunities for all ages. Proposed work includes a new recreation center with indoor courts, upgraded athletic fields with new sports lighting and irrigation, a walking path with native plantings and other outdoor amenities.

During the meeting's public comment period, the board was urged to consider baseball fields as part of the redevelopment of Sports Park East. Officials said they would consider that option.

The Park District said the estimated annual tax impact would be about $137 for a home with a fair market value of $400,000, or about $11 per month. If voters approve the referendum in November 2026, work on the project would likely begin in spring 2027.