Diamond Lake, home to the Diamond Lake Recreation Center, Beach, and Boat Launch, is a cherished destination within the Mundelein Park & Recreation District. Offering a variety of amenities, it serves as a hub for community engagement and outdoor recreation. The District is committed to maintaining and enhancing this vital space, ensuring it remains safe, inclusive, and environmentally sustainable for all visitors. Currently, the District is undertaking a comprehensive master planning process, led by Gewalt Hamilton Associates and Lamar Johnson Collaborative, to develop sustainable concepts that will protect and enhance the natural environment while preserving the unique character of Diamond Lake. Community input will be a crucial part of this planning process. Residents will be invited to contribute feedback on proposed concepts and ideas over the coming months.
Please refer to the materials linked below for further project and background information. Project updates will be displayed below as the process moves forward. Please contact Ron Salski, Executive Director, at rsalski@mundeleinparks.org with any questions.
FAQs
Q: What is the Diamond Lake Recreation Center, Beach & Boat Launch Master Plan project?
A: Mundelein Park & Recreation District (MPRD) is engaging in a master planning process for the Diamond Lake Recreation Center, Beach & Boat Launch to plan for the future, enhance the Diamond Lake area and its amenities and resources.
The final plan will include recommendations for infrastructure, operations, amenities and innovative uses of the site to enhance the overall experience for all visitors. It will balance the needs of our natural environment, community appeal and financial sustainability to ensure that Diamond Lake remains a vibrant, inviting and sustainable destination for generations to come.
Q: What amenities and features can I find at Diamond Lake Recreation Center Beach & Boat Launch?
A: The Diamond Lake Recreation Center, Beach & Boat Launch include:
- sand beach
- grassy areas and a shady picnic grove
- paddle boat, kayak, and stand-up paddleboard launch area and rentals
- boat launch
- playground
- two large multi-purpose classrooms, separate bathroom and changing areas
- administrative office
The boat launch allows motorized watercrafts into Diamond Lake and is managed through seasonal passes and daily launch fees.
Q: Why is MPRD undertaking this project now?
A: In a 2021 community survey, residents identified the Diamond Lake properties as a top priority in which to invest funds. The Diamond Lake Recreation Center, Beach & Boat Launch do not meet current or future needs. This project will identify improvements and enhancements for the site, ensuring it can serve as a cornerstone of the community while promoting wellness, environmental stewardship and community engagement for decades to come.
The project aligns with MPRD’s mission of connecting the community with safe and quality recreation through diverse programs, facilities, and open spaces. It embodies the values of excellence, inclusivity, and environmental stewardship by ensuring Diamond Lake remains a cherished and sustainable destination.
Q: How many acres and what areas are included in the Master Plan?
A: The site being master planned is made up of 2.7 acres of lakefront property (Diamond Lake Recreation Center, shaded picnic grove, grassy areas, sand beach, boat house, and boat launch) and 2.8 acres of parking lots located across Diamond Lake Road from Diamond Lake Recreation Center. The master plan site encompasses a total of 5.5 acres.
Q: Will MPRD sell any piece of the Diamond Lake Recreation Center, Beach & Boat Launch properties?
A: The master plan process is focused on the long-term use of the Diamond Lake properties. The District has no plans to sell the properties.
Q: Will there be any disruptions to current activities at Diamond Lake during the planning process?
A: Diamond Lake Recreation Center has served as the home for The Learning Center Preschool for numerous years. Beginning September 2024, the Learning Center Preschool will relocate to the Child Development Center wing of the Mundelein Community Center at 1401 N. Midlothian Rd.
The District will communicate any changes or disruptions to use of the Beach or Boat Launch in advance to ensure minimal impact on the community.
Q: Will the community be involved in the planning process?
A: Yes! Community engagement is a critical component of the master planning process. Residents will have an opportunity to share input through focus groups, surveys and public meetings. This feedback will help shape the future of Diamond Lake. Updates and information will be available on the MPRD website, social media channels, and through direct communication from the District.
Q: Who is facilitating the master plan process?
A: A team from Gewalt Hamilton Associates and Lamar Johnson Collaborative will guide the master plan process. The team will gather data, assess current site conditions and develop multiple concept options for consideration.
Q: What is the timeline for the project?
A: The process has already begun with property assessments. Milestones include initial recommendations and community feedback opportunities in early-to-mid 2025. A comprehensive plan and recommendations are expected to be delivered by October 2025.
Q: Where can I find more information about the history of Diamond Lake?
A: Here is a publication about the history of Diamond Lake.
Q: Will the project require an increased tax levy by MPRD?
A. This District is focused on funding a future project through its Capital Fund while exploring many grant opportunities and alternative funding sources other than increased taxes.
Q: Who can be contacted for more information about the project?
A: For more information, community members can contact: Ron Salski, Executive Director of Mundelein Park & Recreation District at rsalski@mundeleinparks.org
