2023 Comprehensive Plan

Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan

Wheeling Park District

We’re People Driven

Acknowledgment Page Board of Park Commissioners Sue Stein, President

Mike Burns, Vice President Cheri Klumpp, Commissioner Brian Lichtenberger, Commissioner Isaac Brubaker, Commissioner Jim Whittington, Commissioner Paul Zangara, Commissioner

Steering Committee

Juan Carlos Acevedo, Superintendent of Marketing and Communications Jeremy Turton, Chevy Chase Superintendent of Greens Jennifer Sweeney, Superintendent of Recreation Programs Katie Klemke, Superintendent of Recreation Facilities Marc Sylvie, Trades Foreman

Consulting Team

Steering Committee

BerryDunn: Elsa Fischer, Barbara Heller, Dannie Wilson, & Nikki Ginger

Matt Wehby, Deputy Director

aQity Research & Insights, Inc.: Jeff Andreasen and Tessa Andreasen

Jan Buchs, Executive Director

Amy Rivas, Director of Administrative Services Jim Waterson, Superintendent of Parks & Facility Maintenance

Table of Contents EXECUTIVE SUMMARY.................................4 Demographic Profile................................................... 5 Statistically Valid Community Survey........................ 5 High Level Engagement Summary............................. 6 Parks Analysis............................................................. 7 Recreation Assessment............................................... 7 Trends Analysis........................................................... 7 Operational Assessment............................................. 7 Major Initiatives......................................................... 7 Recommendations...................................................... 7

1.0 INTRODUCTION......................................8 Initial Project Planning............................................. 10 Community Stakeholder Engagement..................... 10 Analysis..................................................................... 10 Visioning .................................................................. 11

2.0 DEMOGRAPHIC PROFILE......................14 3.0 ENGAGEMENT SUMMARY....................18 Introduction.............................................................. 19 Community Survey Results....................................... 19 Internal Engagement Summary............................... 20 External Engagement Stakeholder Meetings.......... 20 Wheeling Park District Brand and Image................. 21 Event Table................................................................ 22 Marketing Staff Outreach......................................... 22 Social Pinpoint.......................................................... 23

4.0 ANALYSIS..............................................24 4.1 Parks.................................................................... 25 Park Classifications Description................................................25 Neighborhood Park Improvement Schedule...................... 37 Open Space and Facility: Level of Service Standards.......38 Service Area Maps......................................................................... 39 4.2 Recreation Assessment Introduction................. 43 Recreation Staff SWOT................................................................. 43 Opportunities for Facility Improvements.............................44 General Programming Challenges..........................................44 Program Evaluation......................................................................44 Community Engagement........................................................... 45

Program Menu................................................................................ 45 Special Events................................................................................. 49 Other Facilities and Services......................................................50 Service Format................................................................................50 Program Inventory........................................................................ 51 Program Distribution................................................................... 52 Age Segmentation........................................................................ 52 Program Performance.................................................................54 Enrollment.......................................................................................54 Cancellation Rate........................................................................... 55 Evaluating Success........................................................................ 55 Participant Reach...........................................................................56 Life Cycle Analysis.......................................................................... 57 Alignment With Community Need......................................... 59 4.3 Trends Analysis................................................... 60 Introduction....................................................................................60 Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.................................................60 Partnerships (Public, Private, and Intradepartmental).....60 Signage and Wayfinding............................................................ 61 Farmers Market..............................................................................63 Sport Participation........................................................................63 Estimated Local Participation...................................................68 Fitness Trends.................................................................................69 Age-Related and Generational Trends.................................. 71 Trends for Youth Ages 13 and Younger.................................72 Trends for Teens/Younger Adults Ages 13–24....................73 Trends for Adults Ages 25–54................................................... 74 Trends for Adults Ages 55 and Over....................................... 75 NRPA Top Trends............................................................................ 76 4.4 Operations.......................................................... 77 Employee Focus Group Results................................................77 Vision Statement Review............................................................ 79 DEI Review....................................................................................... 79

5.0 MAJOR INITIATIVES..............................80 6.0 RECOMMENDATIONS............................83 APPENDIX A................................................86 APPENDIX B.............................................. 133

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Executive summary This executive summary provides a high-level overview of Wheeling Park District’s (Wheeling Park District) Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan (PRCP). This summary comprises the following elements: •

Demographic Profile

•

Trends Analysis

•

Statistically valid community survey

•

Operational Assessment

•

High-level engagement summary

•

Major initiatives

•

Parks analysis

•

Recommendations

•

Recreation assessment

Executive Summary

DEMOGRAPHIC PROFILE Changes in population characteristics will influence how Wheeling Park District delivers future services. According to the ArcGIS Business Analyst, the population of Wheeling Park District was estimated at 43,737 in 2022. According to Village of Wheeling (Village) estimates, the population is expected to grow slightly by 2,362 residents between 2000 and 2024 because of new development.

The median age of Wheeling residents was 38.8 years in 2022—slightly older than the median age in Illinois (IL) (38.6 years) and roughly the same as the U.S. (38.9 years).

The age groups comprising the largest percentage of the population in Wheeling Park District included:

STATISTICALLY VALID COMMUNITY SURVEY The firm aQity Research & Insights managed a statistically valid survey process to help ensure community members had an opportunity to provide input on Wheeling Park District’s services. The survey—administered from early January 2023 to early March 2023—received 400 responses and was offered online, by mail, or by phone in both English and Spanish. Results from the 2015 survey administered by aQity were also included for comparison purposes.

Key findings included: Overall, esteem for Wheeling Park District scored an average of 8 out of 10 (up from 7.4 in 2015).

The highest scoring Wheeling Park District strengths included the fitness center, community events and concerts, well-maintained facilities, and good programs.

Adults ages 35 to 74 years:

27.7%

The overall value of Wheeling Park District scored an average of 7.3 out of 10, compared to 6.1 in 2015.

Youth ages 0 to 19 years:

Of 10 responding households, 9 feel Wheeling Park District is inclusive and represents their needs, interests, and backgrounds—regardless of one’s race or ethnicity.

24% Over the next five years, the age groups of older adults (ages 55–74), young adults (ages 20 –34), and youth (ages 0–19) are expected to decline slightly within Wheeling Park District. However, young adults (ages 20–34) and seniors (75 years and older) are expected to grow.

Wheeling Park District is becoming increasingly more diverse over time. From 2010 to 2022, residents who are white decreased by 18%, while those who identify as two or more races increased by 9%; those who are Asian increased by 4%, and those who identify as another race, as defined by the U.S. Census Bureau, increased by 3%. Those who identify as being of Hispanic origin (regardless of race) increased slightly from 31% in 2010 to 33% in 2022.

From a health perspective, a total of 3,168 Wheeling residents has a disability–2% of all children and 1% of all adults.

Most residents (87%) reported visiting a Wheeling Park District park or facility in the past year (up from 72% in 2015).

Satisfaction in numerous categories, including safety, cleanliness, number and variety of parks and facilities, and level of service (LOS) all improved from the 2015 survey.

Outdoor facilities of greatest interest included walking and biking trails, the nature center, and playgrounds.

Satisfaction with programs scored an average of 8.5 out of 10 (up from 8.2 in 2015).

Wheeling Park District is the top choice for youth and adult recreation and fitness activities.

The aQity survey results showed a marked improvement between 2015 and 2023, with the overall 0–10 esteem rating increasing from 7.4 to 8.0 (on average). In 2015, the ratio of favorable to unfavorable scores was 8.1-to-1 (8.1 people had a favorable opinion of the District for every 1 person with an unfavorable opinion), and in 2023 that ratio has more than doubled to 17.6-to-1.

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Executive Summary

HIGH LEVEL ENGAGEMENT SUMMARY A great deal of public engagement was sought from the community. Wheeling Park District’s current logo was combined with the tagline “Imagine the Future of Parks and Recreation” utilizing Wheeling Park District’s branded color palette.

The engagement for Wheeling included: •

Internal meetings with the Board, the Steering Committee, and staff

•

Meetings with key stakeholders

•

Focus groups

•

Input tables at a variety of Wheeling Park District events

•

•

On-site engagement across several locations to talk obtain feedback from residents about Wheeling Park District and programming Two Social Pinpoint tools—an ideas wall and a community forum—featured on Wheeling Park District’s website to allow people to provide feedback online

These engagements were summarized, which is included in Appendix A. A summary of the highlevel summary of the engagement is included in the body of this report.

Populations perceived to be underserved

by Wheeling Park District include:

6

•

Families in lower socioeconomic groups

•

Residents who do not speak English

•

Seniors

•

Preteens and teens

•

Working adults without children in the household

The high-level strengths identified during these engagements include: •

Motivated, highly driven staff members (both full- and part-time staff)

•

Strong financial position

•

Popular facilities and events

•

A wide variety of high-quality and affordable programming

•

High level of nonresident participation

•

Positive brand and image

•

Recent improvements at the Community Recreation Center (Community Recreation Center) and playground replacements

The challenges include: •

Hiring and retaining qualified staff and providing the appropriate benefits

•

Increased cost of goods and labor

•

Aging infrastructure (Chevy Chase Country Club and the Family Aquatic Center)

•

Teen and senior programming (Congregate Dining, provided by the Village)

•

Keeping up with marketing demands

•

Cultural diversity; language barriers with some residents

•

Ability to attract new board members

•

Community growth

•

Parking and traffic at the Community Recreation Center complex

Wheeling Park District | Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan

Executive Summary

PARKS ANALYSIS

TRENDS ANALYSIS

Information for this section was compiled by Wheeling Park District staff and provided to the BerryDunn consulting team for inclusion in this comprehensive plan.

The analysis of the Wheeling park system includes descriptions of park classifications, an assessment and inventory of parks and facilities, a summary of the Neighborhood Park Improvement Plan, Level of Service standards, and service area maps based on the park type. Wheeling Park District staff compiled all the information included in this section, not the BerryDunn consulting team.

BerryDunn maintains a large database of current trends in parks and recreation. The trends analysis summarizes these trends and how Wheeling Park District is responding to each.

Wheeling Park District is keeping pace with current trends in a remarkable fashion, focusing strongly on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), providing several pickleball options (both indoors and outdoors), offering a robust before- and afterschool program, and hosting many large-scale family events.

Wheeling Park District staff continue to evaluate new trends, identify whether these trends are present in Wheeling, and determine potential responses.

RECREATION ASSESSMENT

OPERATIONAL ASSESSMENT

The recreation assessment includes a review of Wheeling Park District programming, with the primary focus on programs that require registration and fees. This task began with two focus groups with programming staff to discuss the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT) of current programming.

Wheeling Park District’s 12 core program areas are as follows: Active adults

Camps

Aquatics

Creative

Athletics–youth

Early childhood

Athletics–adult

Fitness

Before- and afterschool recreation (BASR)

Golf

The Comprehensive Plan process included an Operational Assessment. The assessment focused on key areas such as refining the vision statement, identifying areas of operational improvements and work environment, and reviewing the organizational culture in support of mission, vision, and values.

The process included meetings with employees from all areas of Wheeling Park District as well as reviews of organizational information, the Workplace Inclusion Study completed by the Kaleidoscope Group (Kaleidoscope), and previous planning efforts. The assessment included details from the employee meetings, analysis, and recommendations.

MAJOR INITIATIVES

Martial arts Special events

The program inventory includes a listing of the major program categories that park and recreation agencies across the country provide. Of these categories, Wheeling offers more than most at 65.1%. In 2022, Wheeling Park District offered 783 programs, with 44.4% representing aquatic programs.

In addition, 52.5% of programs offered were designed for youth (ages 6–12).

For 2022, total program enrollment was 8,005, with aquatic programming attracting the largest number of participants at 1,902 (or 23.8%). Wheeling Park District has a very low program cancellation rate at just 7.6% (60 programs). Wheeling Park District enjoys a wide reach with program participation, attracting a significant number of nonresidents.

This planning process resulted in five major initiatives. The initiatives represent high level themes that create a framework for the plan’s recommendations: Respond to changing demographics and trends Ensure social responsibility Continue innovative leadership

Leverage partnerships Create a Plan for the Community Recreation Center and Family Aquatics Center Campus

RECOMMENDATIONS The final section of the report includes recommendations that are categorized by the five major initiatives along with an estimated time frame for completion (short term, mid term, and long term).

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1.0 Introduction 8

Wheeling Park District | Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan

1.0 Introduction Wheeling Park District (Wheeling Park District) is a creative and vibrant unit of local government located 27 miles northwest of Chicago, IL. This organization, which was established in 1960, provides a multitude of parks, recreation, and leisure opportunities for Wheeling residents along with those who reside in the surrounding communities of Buffalo Grove, Arlington Heights, Prospect Heights, Northbrook, Riverwoods, and beyond.

Wheeling Park District employs 70 full-time staff and hundreds of part-time and seasonal employees to provide a full spectrum of opportunities for preschoolers through seniors.

Facilities include a full-service recreation center with an indoor pool and fitness center, an outdoor aquatics center, a sports complex with turf fields, an amphitheater, an 18-hole golf course with banquet facilities, many parks, and ample trails. Wheeling Park District offers nearly 800 programs and events annually, offering guests of all ages an opportunity to socialize, learn a new skill, compete in sports, improve fitness levels, and have fun.

Wheeling Park District is an award-winning organization that has received Distinguished Accreditation through the Illinois Association of Park Districts and Illinois Park and Recreation Association (IPRA), awarded the Certificate of Achievement of Excellence in Financial Reporting through the Government Finance Officers Association, and has won numerous awards annually for its Chevy Chase event venue through The Knot and The Wedding Wire.

At Wheeling Park District, the pursuit of leadership excellence has been an enduring commitment. The District has consistently taken a leading role in championing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, always striving to foster a welcoming and inclusive environment. Embracing a wellcrafted mission, vision, and values, which have deeply resonated with the Board, staff, and community, the District has effectively steered its operations.

Central to Wheeling Park District’s success in envisioning the future has been its strategic and comprehensive planning approaches. By meticulously planning, the District has been able to set a clear course for growth and development.

Of equal significance, the District has instilled a culture of accountability through its Key Points of Measurement, a system that diligently monitors overall organizational performance. Alongside this, Wheeling Park District places a high value on its employees, recognizing their importance in the organization’s success. This commitment to the team’s

well-being is evident in its continuous focus on professional development, ensuring that employees are equipped with the necessary tools to thrive. Moreover, the District actively fosters a collaborative and participative work environment, encouraging open communication and teamwork.

In 2015, Wheeling Park District conducted a community survey through aQity Research & Insights. Since that time, the District has been working hard to improve parks, programs, services, facilities, and operations with the goal of increasing the overall opinion and satisfaction of its guests, and these efforts have paid off!

The aQity survey completed as part of this planning effort showed a marked improvement between 2015 and 2023, with the overall 0–10 esteem rating increasing from 7.4 to 8.0 (on average). In 2015, the ratio of favorable to unfavorable scores was 8.1-to-1 (8.1 people had a favorable opinion of the District for every 1 person with an unfavorable opinion), and in 2023 that ratio has more than doubled to 17.6-to1. The president of aQity, Jeff Andreasen, expressed that he has never seen an organization increase these ratings so dramatically in only eight years’ time.

In spring 2022, Wheeling Park District retained BerryDunn to complete a Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan (PRCP) that will articulate how to best meet the future parks, trails, open space, and recreation needs of its residents. The final PRCP will drive Wheeling Park District’s long-range planning efforts and direct its decision-making and resources toward a clearly unified vision for Wheeling Park District’s future, including the development and redevelopment of parks, facilities, open space, and recreation programming over the next five years.

With extensive staff input, the consulting team created the PRCP in five distinct phases: PHASE 1: Initial Project Planning

PHASE 2: Community Stakeholder Engagement

PHASE 3: Analysis

PHASE 4: Visioning

PHASE 5: Draft and Final Plan

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1.0 Introduction

INITIAL PROJECT PLANNING Phase 1 included a kickoff meeting, a system tour, demographic profile, and a data review.

The kickoff meeting was held on July 21, 2022, with Wheeling Park District’s steering committee. This meeting included team introductions, a review of project goals and objectives, project phasing, the deliverable schedule, project management, and staff discussion regarding desired outcomes and potential issues that the consulting team should be aware of during the project.

The system tour, facilitated by Wheeling Park District staff, provided the consulting team a basic understanding of Wheeling Park District’s parks and recreation facilities.

The data review included an examination of the organization structure and staffing, website content, program guides, budget documents, program registration data, and past planning documents, such as the 2023 Agency Goals, the 2019 - 2023 Capital Replacement and Improvement Plan, the 2018–2021 Strategic Plan, the 2017 PRCP, and the 2015 Environmental Action Plan.

COMMUNITY STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT Phase 2 included all public engagement activities. The public engagement process was particularly important to Wheeling Park District, and extra efforts were taken to reach as many residents as possible.

The engagement was focused internally and externally and included: The facilitation of a statistically valid survey administered by aQity Research was the highlight of Phase 2. Random Wheeling Park District households received a mailed invitation to complete the survey online (with English and Spanish options), by mail, or by phone. The goal was to obtain 400 completed surveys, and 400 were received. Survey respondents

closely matched Wheeling Park District’s overall demographics.

Meetings with the Board of Park Commissioners, Wheeling Park District’s Steering Committee, and two large staff groups Key stakeholder meetings Focus groups BerryDunn-staffed a table at several Wheeling Park District events throughout the fall and in the lobby during heavy programming at the Community Recreation Center An engagement table in the Community Recreation Center between events so that people could provide input independently Dedicated staff time at four local locations (Holmes Middle School, Rise and Dine Café, Jimenez Grocery, and the Korean Cultural Center of Chicago) to obtain feedback Two Social Pinpoint tools (an ideas wall and a community forum) on Wheeling Park District’s website that allowed people to provide feedback online

ANALYSIS Phase 3 was the most time intensive and included a review of the following:

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PARKS

TRENDS

RECREATION PROGRAMMING

OPERATIONS

Wheeling Park District | Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan

1.0 Introduction

VISIONING Phase 4 was the most thought-provoking and creative phase of the planning process. Its goal was to develop appropriate responses to community-identified needs and priorities based on previous technical aspects of the process.

A visioning workshop was held with Wheeling Park District’s steering committee on April 28, 2023. The first part of the workshop included a review of the engagement and analysis phases. The second part focused on a review of Wheeling Park District’s mission, vision, and values to help ensure

continued alignment with Wheeling Park District’s current direction and that it responds to expressed resident needs.

Wheeling Park District’s mission—“to provide memorable experiences in parks and recreation that enrich our communities”—was left unchanged.

Based on the results of the survey and the engagement, Wheeling Park District’s vision statement was revised slightly: “To uphold our tradition as the provider of choice for parks and recreation in our community.”

The vision statement includes the following definitions clarify the vision:

COMMUNITY

LEADERSHIP

INNOVATION

Wheeling Park District will engage and serve the diverse needs and preferences of our evolving community, fostering inclusivity, accessibility, and equity in the provision of parks, recreational facilities, and programs, delivered through excellent service.

Wheeling Park District understands the value of collaboration and will build relationships, forge partnerships, and facilitate cooperation among community organizations and individuals as the leading provider of parks and recreation services.

Wheeling Park District empowers its staff to research and utilize cutting edge enhancements to better the workplace and guest experience. The District will develop and implement new ideas, strategies, technologies, and approaches that bring about positive change and enhance the delivery of services.

The results of the visioning process assisted with the development of the plan’s major initiatives: Respond to changing demographics and trends Ensure social responsibility

Leverage partnerships Create a plan for the Community Recreation Center and Family Aquatic Center Campus.

Continue innovative leadership

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1.0 Introduction Wheeling Park District values also remain unchanged and include: RESPECT: We make every effort to work as a team while appreciating individual differences. We seek cooperation and consensus between team members and guests. We value the opinions and efforts of others.

COMMUNICATION: We strive for open and honest communications with ongoing, active listening between team members and guests and respond to one another with clarity, tact, and in a timely manner. We value information that our guests provide. Individual differences are accepted, and all issues are open for discussion.

INTEGRITY: We shall maintain trust and respect for one another and our guests by being responsible, accountable, and honoring our commitments. We are dedicated to doing what we say we are going to do.

INNOVATION: Team members continuously work to improve guest service and remain focused on Wheeling Park District key initiatives. Team members are encouraged to create new ideas, find and implement new approaches in providing parks and recreation experiences, and remain flexible to the changing needs of the guests we serve.

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Wheeling Park District | Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan

RECOGNITION AND APPRECIATION: Recognition reaffirms the worth and efforts of team members and accomplishments. Ongoing, timely acknowledgment and a genuine “thank you” are shared both verbally and in writing.

Major accomplishments are recognized and rewarded.

CONTINUOUS LEARNING: The agency and team members will work as partners to foster professional growth and development in order to provide quality services. Providing opportunities for continuous learning and taking on new responsibilities are of great importance and value.

FUN: We have fun and take pride in our work while making a difference in the community and in people’s lives.

EMPOWERMENT: As a team, we believe that we are responsible for our success and let people do their jobs. We will continually foster a work environment built on trust, learning, responsibility, collaboration, and accountability.

PEOPLE: We recognize that people are the organization’s most valuable asset.

Team members are the delivery system for our services and are dedicated to providing memorable experiences to our guests.

1.0 Introduction Draft and Final Plan The plan is divided into six chapters: CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION

CHAPTER 4: ANALYSIS

Includes a review of the process and the five phases of the project; a review of mission, vision, and values; and the five major themes developed following the visioning session.

This is the bulk of the report and includes the analysis of parks, including park classifications and LOS, a recreation analysis, park and recreation trends, and an operational assessment.

CHAPTER 2: DEMOGRAPHIC PROFILE Includes a review of the population data for 2022 and 2027, including age breakdowns, racial diversity, and figures on those with a disability.

CHAPTER 3: ENGAGEMENT SUMMARY A high-level summary is included in this chapter with the complete Engagement Summary included in Appendix A.

CHAPTER 5: MAJOR INITIATIVES The five major initiatives are outlined in this chapter.

CHAPTER 6: RECOMMENDATIONS All of the final recommendations are outlined by the five major initiatives and a timeline is assigned (short term, mid term, or long term).

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1.0 2.0 Introduction Demographic Profile 14

Wheeling Park District | Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan

2.0 Demographic Profile All data in this section (except where noted) was sourced from ArcGIS Business Analysis in April 2023. ArcGIS Business Analysis utilized the 2020 U.S. Census to generate estimates as of July 2022.

Wheeling Park District’s population was estimated at 43,737 residents in 2022, with steady growth between 2000 (41,119) and 2022. Environmental Systems Research Institute, Inc. (Esri) predicts the population will decrease slightly by 2027.

2000

41,119

2010

42,759

43,737

2022

2027

42,733

Figure 2.1 Population Change (2000 to 2027)

Areas in dark green are anticipated to see the highest growth over the next five years.

The Village provided population data based off expected new residential growth due to new housing developments under construction. By the end of 2023, the area expects to grow by more than 1,662 residents.

Another housing development coming in 2024 should add another 700 residents.

Utilizing these local estimates, the population should increase –at a minimum–by 2,362 residents between 2020 and 2024.

Local data suggests the population is increasing, while Census data estimates a 0.46% annual decline from 2022–2027. IL’s population is also projected to decrease by 0.28%.

For context, many communities are experiencing population declines; in fact, 2021 marked the slowest growth rate in history.

The U.S. is only expected to grow overall by .20% to .25% from 2022 to 2027; however, many communities are also experiencing negative growth rates. This could be attributed to COVID-19 death rates, stagnate immigration, and families choosing to have fewer or no children.

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2.0 Demographic Profile Household Characteristics

Age Distribution

According to household characteristics analysis, Wheeling has a higher median household income ($82,853) than IL ($76,812) and the U.S. ($72,414); further, fewer households in poverty (only 9.05%) comparatively.Strategic Plan, the 2017 PRCP, and the 2015 Environmental Action Plan.

The median age of Wheeling Park District residents was 38.8 years old in 2022, slightly older than the median age in IL (38.6) and roughly the same as the U.S. (38.9). The age groups comprising the largest percentage of the population in Wheeling Park District were adults (35 to 74 years) at 27.7% and youth (ages 0 to 19 years) at 24.0%.

Senior (75+ years) 7.5%

Older Adult (55-74 years) 21.4%

0-4 years | 7.5%

Adult (35-54 years) 21.4%

5-9 years | 6.2%

Youth 24%

10-14 years | 6.3% 15-19 years | 5.3%

Young Adult (20-34 years) 19.4%

Figure 2.2 household characteristics

Figure 2.3 Age Distribution (2022)

Age Change Over Time

Racial Diversity

Over the next five years, the older adult (55–74 years), young adult (20–34 years), and youth (0–19 years) age groups are expected to decline slightly within Wheeling Park District, while adults (35–54 years) and seniors (75+ years) are expected to grow.

The District is becoming more diverse over time. From 2010 to 2022, the population of resdients who are white decreased by 18%, while those identifying as two or more races increased 9%, those who are Asian increased by 4%, and those who identify as another race—as defined by the U.S. Census Bureau— increased by 3%.

Those who identify as being of Hispanic origin (regardless of race) increased slightly from 31% in 33% of individuals 2010 to 33% in 2022. identify as being of Hispanic origin.

-0.8% | -341.15 Older Adult

-0.5% | -236.18 Young Adult

-0.3% | -131.21 Youth

2% 2027

47%

2022

49%

Adults 0.3% | 139.96

Senior 1.3% | 568.58

Figure 2.4 Age growth expected by 2027

19%

13%

18%

2% 18%

12% 3%

2% 2010

67%

14%

14%

WHITE | BLACK | ASIAN | TWO OR MORE RACES | OTHER RACES

Figure 2.5 distribution of race groups (2010-2027)

16

17%

Wheeling Park District | Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan

2.0 Demographic Profile Health and Disability According to the Northwest Special Recreation Association (NWSRA), a total of 3,168 Wheeling residents has a disability–2% of all children and 1% of all adults. The breakdown of those with disabilities is outlined in Table 2.1.

Wheeling residents with disability

There are several types of disabilities in Wheeling households with the details outlined in Table 2.2.

Types of disabilities of wheeling residents Type of Disability

Population with this type of Disability

Age Range

Number with Disabilities

Self-care Difficulty

715

5–17 years

295

Vision Difficulty

346

18–34 years

208

2,071

35–64 years

1,276

Independent Living Difficulty

65–74 years

596

Hearing Difficulty

576

75+ years

1,246

Cognitive Difficulty

1,265

Ambulatory Difficulty

T1,536

Table 2.1 Wheeling residents with disability Table 2.2 types of disabilities of wheeling residents

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3.0 1.0 Introduction engagement summary 18

Wheeling Park District | Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan

3.0 Engagement Summary

INTRODUCTION

COMMUNITY SURVEY RESULTS

As part of the PRCP planning effort, a great deal of public engagement was sought from the community. The project team and Wheeling Park District’s Marketing and Communications team combined Wheeling Park District’s logo with the following tagline: “Imagine the Future of Parks and Recreation.” This logo and tagline—branded with Wheeling Park District’s color palette—were used to promote the PRCP engagement. A great deal of promotion was done by the Marketing and Communications team.

The firm aQity Research & Insights managed a statistically valid survey process to help ensure community members had an opportunity to provide input on Wheeling Park District’s services. The survey—administered from early January 2023 to early March 2023—received 400 responses and was offered online, by mail, or by phone in both English and Spanish. Results from the 2015 survey administered by aQity were also included for comparison purposes.

Key findings included:

Engagement activities and opportunities for Wheeling Park District PRCP included: A community wide survey conducted by aQity Research Meetings with the Board of Park Commissioners, Wheeling Park District’s Steering Committee, and two large staff meetings

Overall, esteem for Wheeling Park District scored an average of 8 out of 10 (up from 7.4 in 2015).

The highest scoring Wheeling Park District strengths included the fitness center, community events and concerts, well-maintained facilities, and good programs.

Focus groups (4)

Opportunities for improvement include increasing parking at the Community Recreation Center (Community Recreation Center), implementing lower fees, addressing overcrowding at the Community Recreation Center, and updating the locker rooms.

A statistically valid survey, administered by aQity Research & Insights, Inc.

The overall value of Wheeling Park District scored an average of 7.3 out of 10, compared to 6.1 in 2015.

BerryDunn staffed a table at several Wheeling Park District events, including the Active Adult Expo (10/6), Boonanza (10/21), the Day of the Dead 5K Run/Walk Party (10/30), and the Thanksgiving Feast (11/20)

Of 10 responding households, 9 feel Wheeling Park District is inclusive and represents their needs, interests, and backgrounds—regardless of one’s race or ethnicity.

BerryDunn staffed a table during busy times at the Recreation Center in key areas, including the fitness lobby (10/14), outside of pickleball games and senior lunch events (11/9), and in the gym lobby during youth programming (12/3)

Most residents (87%) reported visiting a Wheeling Park District park or facility in the past year (up from 72% in 2015).

Meetings with key stakeholders (8)

Engagement tables in the Recreation Center between events so that people could provide input independently Dedicated staff at several local locations (e.g., Holmes Middle School, Rise and Dine Café, Jimenez Grocery Store, and the Korean Cultural Center of Chicago) to obtain feedback Two Social Pinpoint tools (an ideas wall and a community forum) on Wheeling Park District’s website to allow people to provide feedback online This section includes a high-level summary of all engagements, with the complete survey results in Appendix A and the full engagement summary in Appendix B.

Satisfaction in numerous categories, including safety, cleanliness, number and variety of parks and facilities, and level of service (LOS) all improved from the 2015 survey.

Reasons for dissatisfaction with Wheeling Park District included the need for more parking, better lighting at night, and general cleanliness at some facilities and parks.

The level of demand and interest is highest for fitness center use.

Two-thirds of non-users represent households without children.

Outdoor facilities of greatest interest included walking and biking trails, the nature center, and playgrounds.

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3.0 Engagement Summary Satisfaction with programs scored an average of 8.5 out of 10 (up from 8.2 in 2015).

Wheeling Park District is the top choice for youth and adult recreation and fitness activities.

Wheeling Park District’s website is the top choice for finding information about Wheeling Park District services, with 75% of households using this resource to seek information.

Given the size of the Hispanic/Latino population, some key differences emerged in the survey results. The Hispanic/ Latino population tend to be most satisfied with: The number and variety of Wheeling Park District parks (8.8 average rating compared to 8.4 overall) The number and variety of Wheeling Park District facilities (8.7 average compared to 8.3 overall)

This portion of the population is more likely to report using the District preschool program (22% compared to 8%overall) and more interested in weekend/family festivals (51% compared to 36% overall) and science/STEM programming (26% compared to 17% overall). And 92% of the Hispanic/Latino population cite Wheeling Park District as a top-3 source for adult recreation/fitness/activities compared to 83% overall).

Wheeling Park District has made significant improvements across the board since 2015 on all key metrics–overall esteem, perceived value, Net Promoter Score, and satisfaction with parks, facilities, and programs. The responses also suggest higher levels of park and facility usage over time, and strong support and participation in the community events that Wheeling Park District provides.

INTERNAL ENGAGEMENT SUMMARY Wheeling Park District Strengths Wheeling Park District has a reputation for hiring motivated, highly driven staff members. Overall, staff are well organized, good teammates, solid planners, committed to a shared vision, and track a good amount of participant and facility data. Wheeling Park District is in a strong financial position and its programs, events, and facilities attract a significant number of nonresidents.

Wheeling Park District Challenges Like parks and recreation agencies across the country and other industries, Wheeling Park District struggles to hire and retain qualified staff members for its seasonal and parttime positions. The increased cost of goods and labor has made it difficult to continue to offer programs and services at a reasonable rate. Some facilities, specifically Chevy Chase Country Club and the Family Aquatic Center, have aging infrastructure, which will be costly to maintain in the future.

With the number of facilities, maintenance continues to be a challenge.

EXTERNAL ENGAGEMENT STAKEHOLDER MEETINGS The BerryDunn team met with eight stakeholders. BerryDunn defines a stakeholder as a current or former leader in the community, a business owner, those involved in service organizations, or a heavy user of Wheeling Park District programs and services.

All stakeholders concurred that Wheeling Park District provides a wide variety of programs, facilities, and events that are well received by the community and nonresidents 20

Wheeling Park District | Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan

3.0 Engagement Summary alike. Customer service was also noted as being a strength: Wheeling Park District staff treat customers very well, are receptive to feedback, and are forward thinking and adaptable, as exhibited during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Stakeholders identified the Family Aquatic Center as one of the best aquatic facilities in the area, employing exceptional lifeguards. Other noted strengths include well-maintained park grounds and recent updates to playgrounds.

Stakeholders suggested a need for more Wheeling Park District staff involved in community engagements as well as a need for more increased coordination between agencies.

Some noted a desire for more access to the outdoor athletic complex as well as the school fields, which are often permitted to outside groups.

Current and former board members expressed concern about difficulties in attracting future board members. In addition, they fear that the most vulnerable in the community cannot participate in Wheeling Park District programs or utilize facilities.

Stakeholders mentioned the following underserved populations that require more outreach: Preteens and teens

language

Residents who do not speak English as a first

Seniors Families

softball), as is the newly installed playground, and landscaping throughout Wheeling Park District.

Maintenance: Facility maintenance is very good, as they are clean and well maintained.

Program fees: The fees for programs and fitness membership are affordable.

New Program Ideas The main topic of discussion regarding new program ideas centered on offerings for adults (aged 30 to 40) not interested in sports. The perception from the group is that Wheeling Park District offers several programs for adults that include alcohol, but some would like a different focus. Ideas included crocheting, drawing, knitting, fostering opportunities for parents with young children to connect with other parents, and networking.

Fitness classes were also discussed. There is a sense that many classes are overcrowded and pose a safety hazard.

Participants suggested setting more stringent class size limits and adhering to those limits. New class suggestions included: Yoga (daytime)

Tai chi

Pilates (daytime

Kettlebell class

Barre class

An additional pump class (morning and evening)

Spin class

Focus Groups Six people participated in the focus groups—a representative from School Wheeling Park District #21, a library board member, a frequent athletic field renter, an avid fitness center user, and two parents with children enrolled in BASR and summer camps.

There were many compliments across several important areas:

Additional program suggestions included: Youth baseball, softball, and flag football (providing instructional leagues so that children who are not in travel sports can access Wheeling Park District sports complex) Friday night events for middle school children (open gym, dance room, activity room) Adult volleyball

Staff: They are wonderful, friendly, and patient.

Summer camps: Highly sought after and fill quickly.

Youth sports: Short season, not too competitive.

Before- and after-school care.

Family Aquatic Center: The lifeguards are the best; they love to watch the staff conduct drills, and they appreciate that the staff take control of children who misbehave.

Parks: The athletic fields are great (soccer, baseball,

WHEELING PARK DISTRICT BRAND AND IMAGE When asked about the brand and image of Wheeling Park District, there was a mixture of responses from focus group participants. A part-time fitness employee said Wheeling Park District has been their best employer. Many programs and facilities have very positive reputations in the community and surrounding towns, including the renovations at the Community Recreation Center, the Family Aquatic Center,

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3.0 Engagement Summary and summer day camp. There were positive comments about the new holiday decorations (“gorgeous”). A couple of people noted that a brand was missing, and more advertising was needed.

EVENT TABLE BerryDunn staffed tables at several Wheeling Park District events: the Active Adult Expo (10/6), Boonanza (10/21), the Day of the Dead 5K Run/Walk Party (10/30), and the Thanksgiving Feast (11/20). BerryDunn staff asked attendees the following questions, and attendees recorded their responses on sticky notes: 1 What new programs would you like to see?

2 What changes would you like to see at the Wheeling Park District?

In addition to the events, the table was staffed during busy times at the Recreation Center across several areas, including the fitness lobby (10/14), outside of pickleball games and senior lunches (11/9), and in the gym lobby during youth programming (12/3). When the table was unstaffed, engagement information was left up so that people could provide feedback independently.

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This engagement effort was very successful, yielding 542 suggestions over the course of 12 weeks. All the feedback was organized into the following categories: Comments/ Questions (5) Compliments (9)

New Amenities (88) New Programs (257) Suggestions (183)

A summary of these suggestions is available in Appendix A.

MARKETING STAFF OUTREACH In December 2022, Wheeling Park District marketing staff conducted in-person outreach at the following locations: Holmes Middle School Jimenez Grocery Store

Korean Cultural Center of Chicago

Staff sought input from a variety of residents, including those who might not be users of Wheeling Park District programs or services. Some feedback was provided in Spanish and Korean, which Wheeling Park District staff translated for this report.

Wheeling Park District | Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan

3.0 Engagement Summary Residents provided a great deal of feedback, with new program offerings being popular recommendations. There were requests for programs taught in Spanish (dance), translating Wheeling Park District program guide into Spanish, and Spanish instruction for children. Other suggestions included the following:

SOCIAL PINPOINT Social Pinpoint is an online engagement software that BerryDunn utilizes to gather community feedback. Two Social Pinpoint tools, an ideas wall, and a community forum, were embedded in Wheeling Park District’s website from October 6, 2022, through December 31, 2022. Both tools allowed people to view others’ sentiments and vote up or down on ideas. A total of 102 people submitted 174 comments. The ideas wall, which garnered 151 comments, included four questions:

•

More dance classes, including ballet (for 2-year-olds), ballroom, salsa, bachata, rumba, and merengue

•

More gymnastics offerings, cheer classes, and health and wellness for young kids

•

Theatre for kids and guitar classes

•

More Zumba classes, Zumba taught in Spanish, and later group exercise classes

•

More programs for kids ages 10 to 13 years, specifically basketball

•

English as a second language classes for adults

•

Adult painting, ceramics, knitting, sewing, and cooking (for men)

•

Youth music and choir

•

More Pilates and Zumba classes

Adding more walking and biking trails

•

Tennis, ping pong, and more pickleball (daytime, evenings, and weekends)

Building a dog park

•

Drop-in Go Game (Korean chess)

•

Family activities

Day of the Dead Festival (1)

2 What changes would you like to see at Wheeling Park District? (74) 3 What new programs would you like to see offered? (50) 4 What’s great about Wheeling Park District? (15) POPULAR RESPONSES TO QUESTION 2 INCLUDED: Improving the parking at the Community Recreation Center

Renovating the Family Aquatic Center

Expanding the hours of the fitness center and the indoor track Add more programming in the evenings and on weekends for working adults

POPULAR RESPONSES TO QUESTION 3 INCLUDED:

Some expressed their enjoyment of Unplug at the Park, and suggested more concerts (in Spanish), a Spanish movie night, and a Taste of Wheeling with small businesses. New event ideas included the following: Mariachi events and Mexican traditions (3)

1 Tell us about your experience at Wheeling parks. (12)

Morning water Zumba course

(yoga, meditation, and group classes)

Senior exercise and wellness

Boxing classes More evening pickleball

A full listing of the Social Pinpoint comments is included in Appendix B.

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4.0 analysis This section of the report includes the analysis of parks, an assessment of recreation programming, a trends report, and an operations report.

24 Wheeling Park District | Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan

4.0 Analysis

4.1 PARKS

Playground

Information for this section was compiled by Wheeling Park District staff and provided to the BerryDunn consulting team for inclusion in this comprehensive plan.

Figure 4.1. features a Wheeling Park District park location map. Following is a summary of findings from the park and facilities assessment.

PARK CLASSIFICATIONS DESCRIPTION The following park classifications were developed for Wheeling Park District. These classifications provide guidelines for design, development, maintenance, and operations of parks.

Mini Parks The mini park is used to address limited, isolated, or unique recreation needs of concentrated populations. Typically, in a residential setting, the size of a mini park ranges between 2,500 square feet and 1 acre. The service area for a mini park is 0.25-mile radius and 1,000 people, and the length of stay is 30 minutes or less. These parks may be either active or passive but speak to a specific recreational need rather than a particular population density and could include recreation-oriented squares. It is recommended that Wheeling Park District avoid developing any additional mini parks, other than those associated with high-density housing, due to the level of maintenance and investment required compared to the overall productivity and effectiveness of the park.

Neighborhood Parks Neighborhood parks serve a variety of age groups within a limited area or neighborhood. They generally range in size from 1 acre to 10 acres, with a 0.5-mile radius service area for 5,000 people. Length of stay is one hour or less. A neighborhood park is intended for passive recreation and contains flexible open space that can be utilized for activities, such as picnicking, and feature playgrounds. If present, active recreation facilities should be used for practice/pick-up activity only; facilities are generally unlighted, and there is limited parking, if any, on-site. Publicly accessible open space at school sites may also be included as a subset of neighborhood parks. These park sites are generally 5 acres or fewer in size. Storm drainage and management facilities and other public utility/infrastructure sites are not considered adequate properties for neighborhood parks.

Current neighborhood parks include: Childerley Park

Pleasant Run Park

Denoyer Park

Chamber Park

Horizon Park

Husky Park

Malibu Park

Mark Twain Park

Northside Park

Current mini parks include: Meadowbrook Park

Avalon Sienna

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4.0 Analysis

Figure 4.1: Wheeling Park District Park and Facilities Map 26

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4.0 Analysis

Community Parks Community parks are larger than neighborhood parks and generally serve multiple neighborhoods. They range in size from 10 acres–50 acres and have a 2-mile radius service area and serve 15,000 people or more. Length of stay is generally two to three hours. The community park may include areas for intense recreation activity, such as sport field assets of game/tournament quality, swimming pools, tennis courts, volleyball courts, and playgrounds. Opportunities may exist for passive recreation such as trails for walking and biking, fishing, view sheds, sitting, and picnicking. With Heritage Park’s change in classification to a regional park, currently there are no community parks.

multipurpose play fields, picnic facilities, and various types of trails (e.g., hiking, biking, and equestrian). Many regional parks specialize their offerings to the public and draw participants from throughout the community and surrounding region. Heritage Park is the sole park included in this classification and will have an even greater regional presence with its redevelopment.

Regional parks include: Heritage Park

Greenways, Corridors, Linear Parks, and Linkages

Regional parks typically provide more diverse recreational opportunities than community and neighborhood parks.

Although many regional parks contain sport field assets and complexes, they emphasize passive recreational opportunities. A regional park usually serves a 5- to 8-mile service area, contains a minimum of 10 acres per 1,000 persons of the population, and generally features between 200 acres and 999 acres of land.

Greenways, corridors, linear parks, and linkages are built connections or natural corridors that link parks and/or amenities. Typically, these corridors are developed and/or dedicated for one or more modes of recreational travel, such as walking, jogging, biking, in-line skating, hiking, and horseback riding. These corridors do not have any specific standards beyond providing sufficient area to protect resources and provide maximum usage; they are unique to the community based upon local conditions, such as drainage ways and utility rights of way; therefore, there is no set standard.

An indoor recreation building or an interpretive center that reflects the character of the park may often be located at a regional park. Active recreational facilities located in a regional park can include active play areas, sport field assets, hard-surface courts, golfing, swimming, boating,

Linear parks are public spaces that border vehicular routes, define the driving experience with distinctive settings, and may feature landscape/hardscape elements, trails, historic elements, art, and memorials. Linear parks serve the overall community and link destinations. Length of stay is generally

Regional Parks

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4.0 Analysis one hour or less. There are no specific standards for size or acreage because each community will vary. Currently, there are no classified greenway parks in Wheeling Park District inventory.

Special Use Areas Special use areas are for single-purpose recreation activities.

These may include areas such as aquatic centers, standalone sports complexes, recreation and community centers, senior centers, golf courses, plazas and squares, nature centers, conservatories, arenas, entertainment, community gardens, or amphitheaters. School sites may also be designated as such an area when not categorized as a neighborhood park.

The current inventory of special use areas includes: Community Recreation Center

Tarkington School Gymnasium

Family Aquatic Center

Heritage Park Performance Pavilion

Indoor Pool Chevy Chase Country Club Health & Fitness Center Mark Twain School Gymnasium

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Conservation, Preservation, and Natural Areas Conservation, preservation, and natural areas refer to areas for protection and management of the natural, cultural, and habitat environment, with recreation use as a secondary objective. This includes dedicated watersheds or natural/undeveloped areas. Recreation use might include passive recreation, such as viewing and studying nature and wildlife habitats. There are no specific standards for size or acreage other than they should be sufficient to protect the resource and provide for appropriate usage. Denoyer Park could be classified in this area if the land and body of water were obtained directly north of the site.

Wheeling Park District should consider identifying existing parcels or potential acquisition parcels that could be included in this classification.

Existing Wheeling Park District properties that should be classified in this area include: Lake Cook Property

Heritage Park Sport Complex Holmes Fields London Fields

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4.0 Analysis

AVALON SIENNA PLAYGROUND

CHAMBER PARK

Avalon Sienna and Potomac are the only residential properties south of Palatine Road within Wheeling Park District boundary.

Chamber Park functions as a neighborhood park with special use facilities that include three historic buildings. It is adjacent to a neighborhood and a concentration of assisted living and healthcare-related facilities. Current partnerships exist with the Historical Society related to the Wheeling Historical Society Museum, Carriage House, and Chamber Church. Chamber Park playground and pathways were updated in 2005.

While an existing playground and path served the neighborhood, it was outdated and below the standards of Wheeling Park District. The existing playground was maintained by the Village and provided for an excellent base location to develop a new playground. With an existing path in place, and a detention area that functions as an open lawn just west of the playground, this location has visibility from Willow Road (the main road in and out of Avalon Sienna and Potomac) and is within a 0.5mile radius of most homes in both developments.

Wheeling Park District’s interest in this park is based on a noted deficiency: There is no playground for residents.

Per an intergovernmental agreement with the Village, commencing on May 1, 2021, the Village will lease Avalon Sienna Playground to Wheeling Park District for 50 years. The playground was installed in 2022 and included new playground equipment, updates to the existing gazebo, and improvements to the landscape surrounding the play area.

The playground will be maintained by Wheeling Park District.

In 2014, pickleball courts were added to Chamber Park in response to increased demand.

In 2017, staff prepared a design concept for the parking lot at Chamber Park, with improvements focused on reconstructing the lot’s eastern portion. As part of the proposed improvements, a rain garden was incorporated in the design to enable drainage. In 2018, Wheeling Park District received a Green Infrastructure grant from the Metropolitan Water Reclamation Wheeling Park District of Greater Chicago (MWRDGC) to construct the rain garden east of the parking lot. In 2019, improvements were made to the parking lot to decrease inefficiencies and expand access and connectivity with adjacent properties.

Due to recent improvements made to the interior of the church in 2022, rentals of the church are becoming increasingly popular.

Chamber Park is scheduled for a playground replacement, improved pathway, landscaping, and lighting in 2023.

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4.0 Analysis

CHILDERLEY PARK

DENOYER PARK

Childerley Park functions as a neighborhood park and is adjacent to multifamily development. The park is heavily used and is directly off of Route 83.

It has a historical building on-site, which is reported to be the oldest church in Wheeling. The park was redeveloped in 1996 with improved playgrounds, rental pavilion, and passive areas. Other businesses and agencies rent facilities here to host programs and camps.

Denoyer Park functions as a neighborhood park and is adjacent to a neighborhood and utility easement.

It is a beautiful setting with wetlands, natural areas, and a Girl Scout perennial garden. A railroad line is located next to the utility easement.

The ADA-accessible path allows for pedestrian connection to the neighborhood with the opportunity to expand as a loop trail around the entire park.

The Village implemented erosion control measures alongside the banks of the Buffalo Creek (which runs through the park’s southern portion) and replaced the pedestrian bridge that crossed the creek, connecting the adjacent neighborhood. As part of the Neighborhood Park Improvement Plan, this park, with assistance from an OSLAD grant, is currently under redevelopment and slated for completion in 2023.

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Pedestrian circulation is good, with possible trail system connection along the utility easement from Lake Cook Road to McHenry Road (north/ south). The park is well landscaped and maintained.

Denoyer Park was redeveloped in 2002 and features a Rotary Club Memorial Shelter. This park is scheduled for redevelopment in 2024.

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4.0 Analysis

HERITAGE PARK

FAMILY AQUATIC CENTER

Heritage Park is Wheeling Park District’s signature park, and—although it could be considered a community park—it is classified as a regional park due to its significant power to attract athletic tournaments from well beyond Wheeling. This property includes the existing Community Recreation Center and Family Aquatic Center. It is located adjacent to the Wheeling Town Center and is considered part of the Municipal Campus that includes Village Hall and the Wheeling Police Department building.

The Family Aquatic Center contains a main pool with 377,779 gallons of water. Amenities include one body slide, one tube slide, two drop slides, diving board, sand volleyball courts, children’s sand play area, waterfall, spray features, spray pad with an 8,079-gallon tipping bucket, and an activity pool with basketball and floating lily pads. There is also a concession stand and eating area. Because of significant usage over the past 30 years, there are many areas that need updates/renovations to keep the facility operating at a sustainable level. The November 2014 Wheeling Family Aquatic Center Master Plan proposed capital improvements with amenities to generate additional excitement, revenue, and an opportunity for people to experience something new.

Heritage Park was completely redeveloped as part of an intergovernmental agreement between Wheeling Park District, the MWRDGC, and the Village. The development and construction period (June 2012–May 2015) added nearly 18 acres and provided flood relief for the communities downstream of the Des Plaines River and some areas of the Village.

The redevelopment of Heritage Park reflects the design outlined in the Heritage Park Master Plan and Report (prepared by Wheeling Park District and adopted by the Board of Commissioners in January 2009) and the subsequent Heritage Park Master Plan Update (adopted by the board in September 2016). As such, Heritage Park now includes a performance pavilion with lawn seating, a sports complex, playground, a pedestrian bridge, a rentable shelter, additional parking, walking paths, and extensive areas of naturalized landscaping.

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4.0 Analysis

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HORIZON PARK

COMMUNITY RECREATION CENTER

Horizon Park functions as a neighborhood park and is adjacent to Indian Trails Library with neighborhoods abutting it on three sides. This park is a traditional neighborhood park with strong connections to each neighborhood as well as a partnership with the Indian Trails Library for an outdoor programming area. There is a path linking the library to the park. This park was renovated in 2017 and includes a trail around the entire park.

In 2018, construction commenced on the Community Recreation Center Renovation and Expansion Project. This project added 42,000 additional square feet to the existing 77,000-squarefoot building. The addition features a new 16,000-square-foot Health & Fitness Center, new group exercise rooms, a second gymnasium, locker rooms, new administrative offices, and new public gathering spaces. The renovation included a new expansive entrance and guest services desk, program space for NWSRA, relocated preschool rooms, new administrative offices, new space for Village senior programming, and new paint and furnishings. Performance of deferred maintenance on the Community Recreation Center’s mechanical systems was also part of the renovation.

The Community Recreation Center fitness addition opened in July 2019. A new preschool playground was installed in 2021.

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4.0 Analysis

MALIBU PARK

HUSKY PARK

Malibu Park functions as a neighborhood park. It is heavily used, surrounded by residential property, and features a great connection to the neighborhood. The last Malibu Park redevelopment project was completed in 2009. This park is scheduled for redevelopment in 2025.

Husky Park functions as a neighborhood park, is adjacent to a middle school, and is due north of Horizon Park. This park is home to a wetland area surrounded by a pedestrian path. Originally, park access was limited with a small easement on the southeast corner and the end of a cul-de-sac. The park previously experienced significant vandalism due primarily to limited visibility. In 2010, Wheeling Park District acquired residential property on Norman Avenue, which increased access and visibility to the existing park. Husky Park was last renovated in 2013.

MEADOWBROOK PARK

NORTHSIDE PARK

Meadowbrook Park is a mini park, and ownership is shared with the Metropolitan Water Reclamation Wheeling Park District (MWRD). Originally, the park served the Meadowbrook neighborhood as a tot lot, primarily for ages 2 –5. In 2018, the playground was redeveloped, adding play equipment for children aged 5 to 12, new benches, and a trellis shade structure.

Northside Park functions as a neighborhood park adjacent to a preschool. It is a shared site separated by a walking path. The park has some connectivity to the neighborhood. This park was last renovated in 2011 and is scheduled to be redeveloped in 2026.

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4.0 Analysis

PLEASANT RUN PARK

CHEVY CHASE COUNTRY CLUB

Pleasant Run Park is a joint park between Prospect Heights (Muir Park) and Wheeling Park District.

It is adjacent to multifamily housing and has good connection to neighborhoods with strong image appeal. It was last renovated in 2013 with the receipt of an OSLAD Development Grant. The redevelopment included play equipment, an asphalt pathway loop, new site furnishings, new basketball court, seat walls, landscaping, and a cross-functional shelter.

Chevy Chase Country Club is owned and managed as an enterprise fund by Wheeling Park District.

The 34,690-square-foot clubhouse offers a full-service banquet operation, golfer’s bar and grill, and a 500-square-foot golf and gift shop. Banquet guests have the option of holding events in the Devonshire Room (seats up to 250 comfortably), the Gable Grill (for smaller events), or the Grand Ballroom (with seating for up to 500). Both banquet rooms have their own built-in bars and bridal suites. There is also a large patio off of the Grand Ballroom. At nearly 3,500 square feet, the patio provides the facility with the ability to offer another attractive amenity to guests looking for an outdoor setting.

Surrounding the facility is Traditions at Chevy Chase—a 6,610-yard, 5-star, par-72, 18-hole championship golf course. Traditions at Chevy Chase was renovated in 2003, while all banquet facilities were updated in 2016.

The building also needs exterior building repairs, which will begin in 2023. Evaluation of the existing shorelines throughout the golf course have been conducted, and stabilization and enhancement should be considered.

The renovations to the course and banquet halls have been a major strength for business growth at Chevy Chase Country Club. However, the lack of a driving range/learning center remains a weakness of the facility.

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4.0 Analysis

LAKE COOK PROPERTY In late summer 2009, a large parcel of land on the south side of Lake Cook Road, between Milwaukee Avenue and Northgate Parkway, became available for acquisition. The undeveloped property was slated for a variety of different development concepts in conjunction with the Prairie Park development to the southeast; however, economic conditions, as well as the character of the land, made the proposed development unrealistic.

Subsequently, the owner sought to discard the property.

At the same time, the MWRDGC was struggling with the cost of removing certain soils from Heritage Park as part of the Heritage Park flood control project. While this was an opportunity to provide the MWRDGC with a location to place the excavated soils, saving several million dollars in trucking and unloading costs, the primary opportunity was the addition of open space to Wheeling Park District. As identified in the 2005 Community Attitude & Interest Survey (CAIS), providing natural areas/wildlife habitats was a need not being met by Wheeling Park District. With its 13-acre lake, wet prairie, sedge meadow, and scrub upland, the Lake Cook property presented an excellent opportunity to address this need. In December 2009, Wheeling Park District Board of Commissioners, with funds from the MWRDGC, authorized the purchase of 31 acres of land on the south side of Lake Cook Road.

Subsequently, MWRDGC determined that the land was not necessary for placement of excavated soils.

MARK TWAIN PARK Wheeling Park District seeks opportunities to collaborate with other public agencies throughout the Village, especially when those opportunities can benefit the community. A partnership with the Community Consolidated School District 21 to develop Twain Elementary School as a neighborhood park site presented an excellent opportunity address an underserved area in the Dunhurst neighborhood and upgrade an aging playground to serve students at Twain school.

In 2017, Wheeling Park District received a grant from IPRA Promotes Play with matching funds toward the construction of a playground. In January 2017, Wheeling Park District added a neighborhood park for its residents while also meeting the needs of the school Wheeling Park District.

An inventory of Wheeling Park District’s parks and facilities and their associated amenities is included in table 4.1.

The purchase of the Lake Cook property represents the largest acquisition of land since 1990. As with Heritage Park, it is important to develop a planning process that seeks support from community leaders and the public.

It is equally important to understand the sensitive nature of the property, as well as the delicate balance between the need to maintain the natural characteristic of the land while allowing the public to use the property in a responsible manner Although the property currently is undeveloped and inaccessible to the public, the Lake Cook Property is classified as a conservation/preservation/natural area.

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Nature Center Trails/Pathways

Path/Trail Distance (Miles) 4.0 Analysis Looped Path/Trail

2.21

0.30

√

0.00

0.20

0.50

0.40

0.18

0.01

Chevy Chase C.C.

Comm. Rec. Center at H.P.

Family Aq. Center at H.P.

Sports Complex at H.P.

Perform.

Pavilion at H.P.

√

√

√

0.28

√

0.34

√

Special Use Facilities Table 4.1: Parks and Facilities√ Inventory Hist. Museum/Carriage House √

√

Totals (where applicable)

Heritage Park

Lake Cook Property

280.1

Regional 104

Church/Chapel

Description

Park Classification Park Acres Playgrounds 2-5 Play Equipment 5-12 Play Equipment Sports Fields & Courts Multi-Use Field* Baseball / Softball Football* Soccer Basketball Tennis Volleyball Pickleball Ice Rink

2 1

31

125.5

√ √

5.6

8.5

5.5

√

√* 4* 1* 7*

2 1

2

2

√ √ √

√ √ (gym) √ (gym)

√

√

√

√

0

1

1

1 √

√ √ √

2.00

1

√ √ √

√ √

√ √ √

√ √ √

√ √ √

√ √ √

√ √ √

√

2.00

√

√ √

√ √

√

√ √

* Turf Field *School Property, playground maintained by Wheeling Park District **Village of Wheeling Property, playground maintained by Wheeling Park District

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London Fields

2

Landscape/Natural Features Creek Lake/Pond Native/Naturalized Landscape Nature Center

Special Use Facilities 18-Hole Golf Course Banquet Facilities Fitness Center Indoor Pool/Aquatics Outdoor Pool/Aquatics Concessions Indoor Recreation Space

Holmes Fields

Cons./Pres./ Special Use Special Use Special Use Special Use Special Use Special Use Special Use Special Use Special Use Area Area Area Area* Area Area** Area** Area** Area** Nat. Area

8

Site Amenities Pavilions (Rental) Shelters/Gazebos Parking Restrooms Drinking Fountain

Trails/Pathways Path/Trail Distance Looped Path/Trail

Tarkington School Gym Twain School Gym & Fields

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4.0 Analysis

NEIGHBORHOOD PARK IMPROVEMENT SCHEDULE In accordance with Wheeling Park District’s neighborhood park revitalization initiative, staff developed the Neighborhood Park Improvement Schedule. This schedule focuses on ongoing improvements at neighborhood parks and includes life cycle replacement of amenities, such as playgrounds,

landscaping, paving, and lighting. The life cycle of each park improvement is approximately 10 years.

Every neighborhood park improvement involved a public neighborhood planning process. The current schedule is included in Table 4.2.

Table 4.2: Neighborhood Park Improvement Schedule Wheeling Park District - Park Improvement Schedule 11-Jul-23 Park Site Chamber Denoyer 2024 2025 AVALON SIENNA Total Cost Budget Amount CHAMBER PARK Total Cost Budget Amount

Malibu 2026

Northside 2027

Twain 2028

Husky 2029

Pleasant Run 2030

Horizon 2031

Meadowbrook Avalon Sienna 2032 2033 TBD TBD

$ 611,200.00 $ 527,500.00

CHILDERLEY PARK Total Cost Budget Amount DENOYER PARK Total Cost Budget Amount

$ 598,700.00 $ 515,000.00

HERITAGE PARK PLAYGROUND Total Cost Budget Amount HORIZON PARK Total Cost Budget Amount

TBD TBD

HUSKY PARK Total Cost Budget Amount

TBD TBD

MALIBU PARK Total Cost Budget Amount

$ 520,000.00 $ 442,500.00

MEADOWBROOK PARK Total Cost Budget Amount

TBD TBD

NORTHSIDE PARK Total Cost Budget Amount

$ 501,200.00 $ 417,500.00

PLEASANT RUN PARK Total Cost Budget Amount

TBD TBD

TWAIN SCHOOL Total Cost Budget Amount Total Cost / Year Total Budget Amount / Year

TBD TBD $ 611,200.00 $ 527,500.00

$ 598,700.00 $ 515,000.00

$ 520,000.00 $ 442,500.00

$ 501,200.00 $ 417,500.00

TBD TBD

TBD TBD

TBD TBD

TBD TBD

TBD TBD

TBD TBD

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4.0 Analysis

OPEN SPACE AND FACILITY: LEVEL OF SERVICE STANDARDS

Community and stakeholder input Open space opportunities

Wheeling Park District established its Open Space and Facility–Level of Service Standards in 2007 during a previous PRCP planning effort. Wheeling Park District considered National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) guidelines at the time but determined they were not achievable due to limited open space and identified community needs. Based on information collected during the 2007 PRCP, the Open Space and Facility–Level of Service Standards was established for Wheeling Park District.

Open Space and Facility–Level of Service Standards are guidelines that define service areas based on populations that support investment decisions related to open space, facilities, and amenities. These standards are for all service providers, not just Wheeling Park District. The standards consider public service providers such as schools and nonprofit recreation services groups. Standards can and will change over time as need, program life cycles, and community demographics evolve.

Open Space and Facility–Level of Service Standards are evaluated by applying a combination of resources. These resources include: Wheeling Park District’s 2007 board-approved Level of Service Standards Activity participation rates collected by Wheeling Park District Wheeling Park District Open Space and Facility Standards 1/25/2023 42,800 Population - Wheeling 2017 District Inventory Facility Type Neighborhood/Mini Parks (# of Parks / Acres) 10/64.35 Regional Parks (# of Parks / Acres) 1/104 Greenways/Linear Parks/Linkages (#of Parks / Acres) 0/0 Special Use Areas (#of Sites / Acres)(5 areas, 10 facilities) 12/139.5 Conservation/Preservation/Natural Areas 1/31.0 Total (# of Parks / Acres) Tennis Courts** 0 Outdoor Pickleball Courts Outdoor Basketball 8 Playgrounds 20 Shelters/Gazebos 12 Trails (miles) 4.3 Dog Parks 0 Skate Parks (Inline, Skateboard) 0 Indoor Recreation Space (Square Feet)* 1/77,000 Aquatic Center 1

Current District Inventory 11 / 64.9 1 / 104 0/0 15/ 146.42 1 / 31.0 18/ 340.72 0 6 7 24 14 4.3 0 0 1 / 119,000 1

General observations This information allows standards to be customized to Wheeling Park District.

Establishing and applying Open Space and Facility–Level of Service Standards achieves the following: Serves as a guide for land requirements for various kinds of open space and facilities Relates the recreation needs to spatial analysis within a community-wide system of open space and facilities Becomes a major structuring element that can be used to guide and assist development Open Space and Facility–Level of Service Standards are applied to population factors (per 1,000 people), which are used in a gap analysis to determine if too many or too few facilities exist to serve the population. These standards are further applied to the Service Area Analysis, where overlaps and gaps are graphically identified based on population densities within the service area of a specific facility or amenity.

The Open Space and Facility–Level of Service Standards in Table 4.3, compiled by Wheeling Park District staff in January 2023, indicates the current and recommended Open Space and Facility–Level of Service Standards based on the 2023 population estimate of 42,800.

National Guideline Standard 2 acres / 1,000 3 acres / 1,000 5 - 10 acres / 1,000 1 Court / 5,000 ?

1 Court / 2,500 1 Site / 1,250 1 site / 5,000 0.4 miles / 1,000 1 site / 50,000 1 site / 50,000 1 sf / person 1 pool / 20,000

Wheeling Park District Board Adopted Standard (11/07) 1.50 ac / 1,000 2.50 ac / 1,000 0.25 ac / 1,000 3.20 ac / 1,000

Current Service Level 1.52 ac / 1,000 2.43 ac / 1,000

7.45 ac / 1,000 1 court / 10,000

3.42 ac / 1,000 .72 ac / 1000 7.96 ac / 1,000 0 site / 10,000

1 court / 5,000 1 site / 2,000 1 site / 5,000 0.4 miles / 1,000 1 site / 50,000 1 site / 50,000 2.00 sf / person 1 pool / 50,000

.82 / 5,000 1.12 site / 2,000 1.64 site / 5,000 0.10 miles/1000 0 Site / 50,000 1 site / 50,000 2.78 sf / person 1 pool / 42,800

Current Surplus/Deficit (2023) Meets Standard Need 3 acres Need 10.7 acres Meets Standard Meets Standard

Need 2 Courts Meets Standard Meets Standard Need 12.8 Miles Need 1 Park Need 1 Park Meets Standard Meets Standard

*Note: Indoor Recreation Space does not include school gynmasium space since it is not a facility available exclusively for full-time programming for District residents and hence actual usage hours would be much lesser than optimum capacity **Note: While the WPD does not have tennis courts, the District does have an IGA with District 214, to have use of the ten tennis courts available at Wheeling High School

Table 4.3: Open Space and Level of Service Acres Neighborhood/Mini Parks

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Avalon Sienna Chamber Park Childerley Park Denoyer Park Horizon Park Husky Park Malibu Park Meadowbrook Park Northside Park Pleasant Run Park Twain School Park

0.55 6.3 12.7 4.5 10 5 1.2 2.8 3.1 4 14.75

Regional Parks Heritage Park

Acres 104

Greenways/Linear Parks/Linkages

Wheeling Park District | Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan

Acres

Special Use Areas Chevy Chase Country Clu Holmes Fields London Fields Tarkington Fields Wheeling H. S. Sports Field-so

Acres 125.5 8.5 5.5 5.6 1.32

Special Use Facilities Family Aquatic Center Community Recreation Cen Indoor Pool Health & Fitness Center Twain School Gym Tarkington School Gym HP Sports Complex HP Performance Pavilion

0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

4.0 Analysis

SERVICE AREA MAPS Service area maps and Open Space and Facility–Level of Service Standards help staff and key leadership assess where services are offered, how equitable the service delivery is across Wheeling Park District, and how effective the service is compared to the demographics of where the service is provided. In addition, reviewing Open Space and Facility–Level of Service Standards against the population allows Wheeling Park District to assess gaps in service, where facilities are needed, or where an area is oversaturated. This enables Wheeling Park District to develop appropriate capital improvement needs and decide the level of contribution against other service providers.

The next three maps were developed for the following: •

Neighborhood and mini parks

•

Regional parks–Heritage Park, Community Recreation Center, Family Aquatic Center

•

Playgrounds

The source for the population data is Esri, and comparison data was obtained from the U.S. Census Bureau and the Village.

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4.0 Analysis NEIGHBORHOOD AND MINI PARKS SERVICE AREA The map in Figure 4.2 illustrates the locations of Wheeling Park District’s neighborhood parks. The current Level of Service for neighborhood and mini parks is 1.3 acres/1,000 population. This map shows the recommended service level of 1.5 acres/1,000 population. It is

not recommended that Wheeling Park District develop any new mini park sites. Long-term opportunities exist for the development of a new neighborhood park north of Lake Cook Road near the Chevy Chase neighborhood.

Figure 4.2: Wheeling Park District Neighborhood and Mini park Map 40

Wheeling Park District | Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan

4.0 Analysis REGIONAL PARKS SERVICE AREA Figure 4.3 illustrates the location of Wheeling Park District’s regional parks and includes the Sports Complex, Community Recreation Center, and Family Aquatic Center. Regional parks are typically 50 acres to 1,000 acres with a 3-mile radius and provide more diverse recreational opportunities than community and neighborhood parks.

Many regional parks specialize their offerings to the public and draw participants from throughout the community and the surrounding region. Heritage Park is the only park in this classification and has a large regional presence since its redevelopment in 1995.

Figure 4.3: Wheeling Park District Regional Park Map Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan | Wheeling Park District

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4.0 Analysis PLAYGROUND SERVICE AREAS Figure 4.4 illustrates playground locations throughout the Wheeling Park District. The current service level for playgrounds is one site per 2,410 people. The map shows the recommended service level of one site per 2,000 people.

Figure 4.4: Wheeling Park District Playground Service Areas 42

Wheeling Park District | Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan

4.0 Analysis

4.2 RECREATION ASSESSMENT INTRODUCTION The recreation assessment reviews Wheeling Park District’s recreation program and service offerings through a series of individual analyses. BerryDunn reviewed the results of these analyses from a global perspective. This recreation assessment report offers detailed insight into Wheeling Park District’s programs offerings and helps identify strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for future program direction.

This report also assists with identifying program categories, programming gaps, and future program considerations.

This report and the data that informed the recreation assessment process include participation data exported from RecTrac (Wheeling Park District’s registration software) and program metric worksheets completed by staff. Internal meetings with programming staff and managers also yielded feedback. The integration of community engagement results with analysis data helped inform and drive program and service recommendations.

RECREATION STAFF SWOT To initiate the recreation assessment, meetings were held with two groups of recreation programming staff—one with managers and one with supervisors. Staff did not attend meetings with their direct supervisor to facilitate candid feedback. The goals of these meetings were to learn what is working well for staff, determine programming barriers, and identify opportunities for improvement.

PROGRAMMING STRENGTHS When asked which programs were doing well and growing, staff indicated that many youth programs currently have strong registration, including the following:

COVID-19 pandemic and are now both very well attended.

Furthermore, the summer concert series and special events are popular and well attended by families.

PROGRAMS IN DECLINE Staff noted a few programs in decline, including:

Preschool: Close to maximum registration

BASR: Very popular with resident families and fill up fast

Hatha yoga: The perception is that people do not want to pay for extra services outside of their membership

Swim lessons: Staff are often unable to accommodate those on the waitlist

Youth sports leagues: Flag football, basketball, and soccer

Tumbling: Enrollment grew after relocation from a program room to the gym

Programs for older kids: Camps for fourth through eighth grades and the Kids Night Out program

Summer camps: Very popular and fill up fast

Pickleball for adults is also popular, and staff struggle to keep up with the demand due to lack of instructors.

Senior trips and Silver Sneakers have rebounded after the

Adult sports leagues: Basketball and volleyball

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4.0 Analysis

OPPORTUNITIES FOR FACILITY IMPROVEMENTS

GENERAL PROGRAMMING CHALLENGES

Staff complimented recent improvements to the Community Recreation Center, where 95% of Wheeling Park District programming is held. Several improvement suggestions were made:

During the first meeting with programming staff, many noted a number of challenges–the primary issue that staff are extremely busy, and there is little room to take on new initiatives.

OVERALL

Understanding what residents want and need from recreation programming is an ongoing staff challenge, especially for immigrant groups.

•

Better interior signage is desired to assist customers with wayfinding.

GYM 1 •

Improved lighting

•

The second-floor rooms could be more effective with different features, including: »

Fitness room floor could be replaced, and cabinets could be added; these changes could create a new summer camp and rental space.

»

The stage in Room 204/205 could be updated and improved; changes would allow staff to use this space more and alleviate the overcrowding in Rooms 210 and 211.

FITNESS CENTER •

•

•

There is ample storage on the second floor, but it is lacking on the first floor. There is no place to put equipment, which creates clutter.

There is a ventilation issue in the first-floor fitness room.

Although portable fans help a bit, the space heats up quickly.

The space is difficult to monitor; the back entrance is accessible without checking in and, therefore, some people enter without paying.

AQUATICS •

44

Both the indoor and outdoor pools are due for some upgrades; the admission fees are increasing, but the facilities stay the same.

Staff noted many residents need the summer camp programs and BASR not for the recreational benefit, but for child care. Staff have tried to keep these programs affordable, but costs (primarily staffing) continue to rise.

Wheeling Park District’s scholarship program (last updated in 2018) was discussed as a challenge. Staff believes the process is difficult to navigate and does not always cover what families need. Staff believes this important service is not welcoming and obscured in the fine print.

It is often easier to use contractors to teach courses instead of hiring employees, but there is concern regarding high contractor expenses. Although a concern, staff noted that they believe Wheeling Park District is doing better than other agencies with hiring staff: It has found ways to share staff across program areas (e.g., camp staff move into athletics roles after the summer months).

Lastly, staff commented on the relationship with the local schools and the desire for more access to school spaces.

PROGRAM EVALUATION Program evaluation is important in the programming life cycle. Wheeling Park District uses many metrics to evaluate programs success, such as participation, waitlists, and fiscal performance. In addition, some staff use SurveyMonkey to obtain feedback from participants. Wheeling Park District utilizes a Net Promoter Score (NPS) system. Some staff noted some concerns about the NPS: •

The process does not drill down into specific program areas, so some staff question the depth of the information received.

•

Some are concerned that dissatisfied residents are the ones typically completing the NPS, so balanced feedback is not received.

Wheeling Park District | Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan

4.0 Analysis

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT Good marketing is instrumental for successful programming, and Wheeling Park District has strong programming results.

Wheeling Park District has a marketing team that comprises three full-time staff and seasonal interns. Programming staff would like to see some marketing enhancements in the future, which may require additional staff. Some of their concerns include the following: •

Due to the large number of marketing requests, it is often difficult for the marketing team to provide status updates.

•

A bit more clarity is needed regarding Wheeling Park District’s Canva account (e.g., which staff positions can access, who has been trained, etc.).

•

More efficiency is desired with the virtual guide proofing process.

•

Additional program photos are desired.

•

At times, there is a need for a last-minute request (e.g., when an instructor quits), but marketing does not always have the capacity to accommodate.

•

More internal advertising throughout the Community Recreation Center is desired.

•

Programming staff would like to see more “marketing in the moment,” such as social media photos, but there is not enough marketing staff to meet the demand.

With the size and complexity of Wheeling Park District, it is recommended that an evaluation of the staffing levels and organizational structure be completed.

An elevated marketing division with additional staff could also devote more time to partnerships and sponsorships, with a focus on the following initiatives: •

Creating new relationships with partners and sponsors throughout the community.

•

Enhancing definition and marketing of Wheeling Park District sponsorship opportunities.

•

Enhancing communication throughout the year to build relationships with partners and sponsors so that the outreach becomes less transactional for a specific onetime event.

PROGRAM MENU The program menu consists of recreational activities offered for a specific period of time. Program data from the most recently completed fiscal year, 2022, was utilized to analyze Wheeling Park District’s program menu. This section will review the menu’s core program areas, service format, program inventory, program distribution, and age segmentation.

Core Program Areas Wheeling Park District has 12 core program areas: Active Adults

Creative

Aquatics

Early Childhood

Athletics–Youth

Fitness

Athletics–Adult

Golf

BASR

Martial Arts

Camps

Special Events

ACTIVE ADULTS Active adult programs offer several trips for those 55 years and older, monthly bingo events, holiday-themed events, and miscellaneous seasonal programs. This age group can also take advantage of Silver Sneakers, a wide variety of group fitness classes, membership to the Health & Fitness Center, the indoor track, and aquatic programming (water aerobics and lap swim).

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4.0 Analysis

AQUATICS The bulk of Wheeling Park District’s aquatics programming is youth swim lessons; these lessons are held all year long at the Community Recreation Center’s indoor pool. Group lessons are typically six weeks long, with each class 30 minutes to 45 minutes in length, depending on age. Lessons are available weekday evenings and on Saturdays.

Parent/tot swim lessons are for children 6 months to 3 years of age and their parent/guardian. There are two levels of swim lessons for those ages 3 to 5 years (guppies and minnows). For youth ages 6 and up, there are six levels of swim lessons (seahorse, clownfish, lionfish, dolphin, marlin, and shark). Children who complete the first five levels and participate in the shark level are theoretically ready for swim team.

Wheeling Park District also offers group swim lessons for adults aged 16 and up. These lessons are also available weekday evenings and on Saturdays.

Private swim lessons are also available for all ages, subject to instructor availability, and are 30 minutes in length.

ATHLETICS–YOUTH There are a wide variety of athletic programs offered by Wheeling Park District for youth starting at age 2 years. For younger children (ages 2 to 4), there are opportunities for tumbling and gymnastics (parent and child), soccer, t-ball, and an introduction to sports. For those in grade school, there are basketball leagues, ultimate frisbee, soccer training and leagues, pickleball instruction, and fitness conditioning programs. For seventh and eighth graders, Wheeling Park District partners with area park districts to offer a travel 46

basketball league. Drop-in programs for youth include badminton and ping pong.

ATHLETICS–ADULT For adults, there are several drop-in sports programs, including pickleball, badminton, ping pong, futsal, volleyball, and basketball. Leagues include men’s volleyball, co-ed sand volleyball, and softball (men’s 12” and co-ed 14”). There is also a pickleball tournament each April for those 50 years and older.

BASR In collaboration with School Wheeling Park District #21, Wheeling Park District provides BASR for children in grades K–5 who attend Field, Tarkington, Twain, and Whitman schools. The program is held at the Community Recreation Center. Students get dropped off at the Community Recreation Center for before care and are bussed to school.

After school, students are bussed to the Community Recreation Center and picked up by parents. This program area also provides activities when school days are short and during winter and spring breaks.

CAMPS Wheeling Park District provides a robust array of summer camps to the community for those aged 1 year (with parent) through those teens going into ninth grade. Camps begin as soon as school is dismissed for summer break (early June) and runs until school begins in the fall (mid-August)—a total of 10 weeks. A summary of what was provided in 2022 includes:

Wheeling Park District | Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan

4.0 Analysis •

Children 1–2 years of age with parent: Tiny Tots Camp; two days per week for 90 minutes.

•

Children 3–4 years: Preschool Camp, half- and full-day options; meets either three or five days a week.

•

For children going into kindergarten through third grades: »

»

•

Junior Adventure Camp provides campers themed weeks, special events, crafts, and swimming at the Family Aquatic Center; this is offered five days per week for full days (but families can attend fewer days with the flexible enroll-by-day option).

Junior Sports Camp provides campers the opportunity to play sports and swim at the Family Aquatic Center; this is offered five days per week for full days (but families can take advantage of the flexible enroll-by-day option).

For children going into kindergarten through sixth grades: Art Camp teaches young artists new skills and techniques, incorporates weekly themes, and includes swimming at the Family Aquatic Center; this is offered five days a week for full days.

•

•

For children going into fourth through eighth grades: »

Senior Adventure Camp: Five days per week for full days (but families can attend fewer days with the flexible enroll-by-day option).

»

Senior Sports Camp: Five days per week for full days (but families can take advantage of the flexible enroll-by-day option).

For preteens and teens going into sixth through ninth grades: Counselor in Training program, where participants assist counselors in supervising campers in other camps and learn leadership skills; this is offered five days per week for full days.

The summer camp program also provides options for before care (7–9 a.m.) and after care (3–6 p.m.). The flexible enrollby-day option is available for before and after care as well.

CREATIVE This category of programming is not age specific and includes dance and craft classes for youth as well as some adult art classes. A youth magic class is also in this category.

EARLY CHILDHOOD This area provides programs for those ages 1 to 5 years and includes a variety of classes that focus on crafts, colors, STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math), and fun. This program area also includes the Department’s nine-month preschool program and preschool summer camps.

FITNESS Fitness programming is highlighted by Wheeling Park District’s 4,500-square-foot Health & Fitness Center.

Membership to this facility provides access to: Cardio machines (45) Strength machines A fully equipped free weight area A Queenax Training System Group exercise classes Exclusive member locker rooms

Indoor lap pool (four 25-yard lanes) Indoor walking track Two indoor gyms Preferred pricing for personal training, the Pilates reformer machine, and wellness programs

The group exercise schedule includes many types of classes, including Body Pump, several types of yoga, Zumba, strength and sculpt, and aquatic exercise classes. Classes can be purchased via a Health & Fitness Center membership, on a Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan | Wheeling Park District

47

4.0 Analysis per-class basis, or with a 10-punch card. Free Wheeling Walks are also scheduled year-round on Saturday for all ages.

Personal training and Pilates training are also available, with several different trainers in packages of 1, 3, 5, 10, or 15 sessions. Sessions can be 30, 45, or 60 minutes.

GOLF Wheeling Park District owns and operates Chevy Chase Country Club, an 18-hole golf course with a full-service bar, four sets of tees, golf carts with GPS technology, a pro shop, and the Gable Room Bar & Grill. The course offers golf instruction.

This facility also features two large food and beverage event spaces for weddings, corporate events, mitzvahs, public events, and private events. This public course hosts several private golf outings each year. Chevy Chase is also home to a few Wheeling Park District events, including Easter brunch, Mother’s Day brunch, Thanksgiving Feast, and the Patio Party.

MARTIAL ARTS For martial arts, Wheeling Park District offers comprehensive, year-round karate programming for ages 4 and up. Prekarate, youth karate, youth/adult karate, and adult karate all include several levels from beginner through advanced.

This program is offered through a partnership with Illinois Shotokan Karate Club and is held at the Community Recreation Center and River Tails Middle School.

Tae kwon do is also offered to the community through a partnership with the Midwest Academy of Tae Kwon Do. This year-round program is offered for those 7 years and up and is held at the Community Recreation Center.

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Wheeling Park District | Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan

4.0 Analysis

SPECIAL EVENTS Wheeling Park District offers a robust array of special events throughout the year, which residents and nonresidents of all ages attend. Some events are free, and there is a small fee for others. Events are categorized by season:

Winter:

Summer:

•

Letters to Santa

•

Kids Fest

•

Breakfast with Santa

•

Car Show

•

Family Gingerbread House Decorating

•

Back to School: Teen Pool Party

•

Holiday Hoopla

•

Strong Kids Triathlon

•

International Festival

•

Happy Noon Year

•

Summer Concerts

•

Superhero Night

•

Family Bingo

•

Winterfest

•

Build a Snowman

•

Movie in the Park

•

Kids Night Out

•

Unplug at the Park

»

Glow in the Dark Party

»

St. Patrick’s Night Party

»

Flashlight Egg Hunt

»

Friday Night Headliners: Three concert dates in June, July, and August

»

Sounds of Summer: Eight Sunday night concerts in June and July

Fall: •

Fallapalooza

•

Oktoberfest

Spring:

•

Boonanza

•

Preschool Egg Hunt

•

Day of the Dead 5K

•

Spring Egg Scramble

•

Thanksgiving Community Feast

•

Earth Day Celebration

•

Kids Night Out

•

Kids Night Out–Pajama Party

•

Family Bingo Night

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4.0 Analysis The Family Aquatic Center, located within Heritage Park, is an expansive outdoor water park that includes a water playground, tube and body slides, zero-depth pool, splash pool with water basketball and activity pad, a toddler slide, sand play area, sand volleyball courts, picnic area, diving board, lap planes, a snack bar, and locker rooms. This facility is open to the public from Memorial Day to Labor Day, and access can be gained by purchasing a seasonal pass, paying the daily fee, or purchasing a 10-punch pass.

The Heritage Park Performance Pavilion is located within Heritage Park and is a regional destination for outdoor concerts, movies, special events, and family gatherings. The 2,400-square-foot structure includes a hardscaped plaza and modern sound system and overlooks the lake with a sloped stadium-like landscape.

The Heritage Park Sports Complex features four lighted synthetic turf athletic fields (for baseball, softball, soccer, and football), concessions, picnic tables, restrooms, shade structures, and parking. In addition to the adult softball leagues, this facility is available for rental.

The Wheeling Historical Museum is a cooperative effort between Wheeling Park District and the Wheeling Historical Society. This historical site includes exhibits depicting the history of life in Wheeling.

OTHER FACILITIES AND SERVICES In addition to the core programs and activities, Wheeling Park District facilitates other types of community leisure services. The Community Recreation Center features the Health & Fitness Center, group exercise rooms, two gymnasiums, an indoor pool, kitchen, multipurpose rooms, a walking track, and a separate preschool wing with an attached, enclosed playground. This facility is also home to the leadership and recreation staff offices.

The indoor pool includes a zero-depth leisure pool, a mini lazy river, interactive water play structures, a four-lane 23.5yard lap pool, a toddler slide, and locker rooms (including one for families). The pool hosts swim lessons, open and lap swim times, aquafit classes, and special events.

The Chamber Park Community Center, located in Chamber Park, was the original Zion Presbyterian Church and was the first and, for many years, only church in the Village. The facility features a staff, a full kitchen (refrigerator, oven, stove, and sink), and restrooms. This space is utilized by the Wheeling Historical Society for meetings and for Wheeling Park District rentals throughout the year.

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Wheeling Park District’s 12 parks include amenities such as shelters, picnic tables, BBQ grills, drinking fountains, shade structures, sand volleyball courts, walking paths, restroom facilities, playgrounds for two age groups, basketball courts, pickleball and tennis courts, ball diamonds, multipurpose fields, nature trails, and two outdoor ice rinks.

SERVICE FORMAT Wheeling Park District offers recreation services in a variety of formats. Drop-in open gyms are available for badminton, basketball, futsal, pickleball, ping pong, and volleyball. There is a small fee for the public. Fitness members pay for badminton, pickleball, and ping pong, while basketball, futsal, and volleyball are included with membership. Usage of the indoor and outdoor pools require a membership, payment of the daily fee, or the purchase of a 10-punch pass.

Enrollment-based programs, or activities held on scheduled days and times that require pre-registration, are advertised in an online seasonal program guide. Special events are offered both as one-time events as well as in a series format (e.g., concert series). Some special events are free, while some require pre-registration and a fee.

Wheeling Park District | Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan

4.0 Analysis

PROGRAM INVENTORY The following is a list of major program categories that park and recreation agencies throughout the nation commonly provide. This list helps to identify if there are common program areas not offered by an agency. Most agencies offer a majority of programs. In matching Wheeling Park District’s inventory of programs against this list, a majority of the program areas, 69.8%, are represented. (Blue text represents programs currently not offered by Wheeling Park District.)

For comparison purposes, the consulting team reviewed program category percentages against its database of past clients from across the country. The comparison agencies’ average percentage of program categories was 64.5%, which is lower than Wheeling Park District’s 69.8%. The program categories depicted with blue text represent opportunities for program menu expansion where aligned with community needs. BerryDunn is not suggesting that every program listed should be offered, but it does highlight some program areas that could be considered in the future when parking capacity is increased at the Community Recreation Center.

Active Adult

Golf

Running/Walking

Aquatics

Gymnastics/Tumbling

School Day Off Programs

Arts

Historical Programs

Seniors

Before-/After-School Care

Homeschool

Special/Community Events

Biking

Horseback Riding

Sports Instruction

Child care

Inclusion Opportunities

Sports Leagues – Adult

Climbing

Language Arts

Sports Leagues – Youth

Cooking

Lifelong Learning

STEM/STEAM

Dance

Martial Arts

Sustainability/Green

Day Camps

Music

Teens

Early Childhood

Open Gym – Adults

Tennis

Environmental/Nature

Open Gym – Youth

Theatre/Acting

Esports

Outdoor Adventure

Wellness

Extreme Sports

Pet Programming/Events

General Interest

Preschool

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4.0 Analysis Figure 4.5: Total Programs Offered in 2022 Active Adults Winter

Aquatics Athletics - Youth

Spring/Summer

Athletics-Adult BASR

Fall

Camp Creative Early Childhood Fitness Golf Martial Arts Special Events 0

50

100

150

200

250

PROGRAM DISTRIBUTION Understanding how Wheeling Park District’s enrollment-based program menu is distributed across the core program areas helps identify the extent programming within each program area relates to the whole. Figure 4.5 depicts the total of programs offered (783) in 2022 according to core program area and season.

The core program area with the most programs offered was aquatics (348 or 44.4%) regardless of season. Martial arts were the second highest (109 or 13.9%). Conversely, the areas with the lowest quantity of programming were BASR (4) and Figure 4.6: Enrollment-Based Program Distribution 3%

300

350

Fitness (19). The distribution of core program areas in relation to each other is depicted in Figure 4.6.

It is common for park and recreation agencies with pools (either indoor or outdoor) for aquatics programming to be the core program area with the most programs offered. This is often due to the small class sizes due to the low ratio of instructor to students.

When analyzing program distribution, it is important to remember that Wheeling Park District offers many drop-in programs and services in addition to the enrollment-based programs depicted in Figure 2. Examples include the use of the fitness center, gyms, pools, and the walking/jogging track.

AGE SEGMENTATION

3% 3% 1%

The age segmentation analysis reviews the distribution of the program offerings according to the age segments serviced. For the purposes of this assessment, BerryDunn delineated age categories according to the following structure:

4% 4% 4% 44%

5% 8%

Early Childhood, ages 0–5 years Youth, ages 6–12 years

8% 14%

• Aquatics • Martial Arts • Athletics - Youth • Golf

52

400

• Creative • Special Events • Active Adults • Athletics - Adult

• Early Childhood • Camp • Fitness • BASR

Wheeling Park District | Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan

Teens, ages 13–17 years Adult, ages 18–54 years Seniors, ages 55+ years

4.0 Analysis Wheeling Park District provided BerryDunn with registration data based on these age segments. Figure 4.7 displays Wheeling Park District’s 2022 program menu’s percentage of registration-based programs offered according to each age segment.

Over half of the programs offered by Wheeling Park District are geared toward youth aged 6 to 12 years. More than onefifth of the programs offered are geared toward children aged 0 to 5. The age segmentation analysis is one helpful method to review Wheeling Park District’s programming related to the community demographics. Demographic data can be helpful to consider how programming efforts are aligned with the makeup of the community. The adjacent comparisons of the community’s population and enrollment-based program offerings in Figure 4.8 demonstrate two key age segments’ relationship between the population

percentage and percentage of programs (that require registration) offered.

Most of Wheeling Park District’s enrollment-based programs are designed for youth (aged 0 through 17), while the youth age segment represents 24% of the community’s population. Adults aged 18–54 make up 47.1% of the population, while 19.9% of enrollment-based programs are designed for adults. Offering a majority of programming for youth is consistent with most park and recreation agencies’ program menus across the country; that said, the percentage of youth programming is more often within the 60%–75% range. The program menu’s age segmentation does not need to mirror the community’s age demographic segmentation in an exact manner; however, an ongoing goal can be to balance the menu toward a reflection of the community makeup.

Seniors (55+ Years) 20%

Adult (18-54 Years) 20%

Youth

Early Childhood (0-5 Years) 20%

Teen .

(13-17 Years) 20%

Adult

24 % of population

47.1 % of population

76% of programs

19.9% of programs

Youth (6-12 Years) 53%

Figure 4.8: Population Versus Program Menu .

Figure 4.7: Age Segmentation of Enrollment-Based Programs Offered, 2022

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4.0 Analysis Figure 4.9: 2022 Enrollment by Core Program Area and Season Active Adults

Winter

Aquatics Athletics - Youth

Spring/Summer

Athletics-Adult Fall

BASR Camp Creative Early Childhood Fitness Golf Martial Arts Special Events 0

200

400

600

800

1000

1200

1400

1600

1800

2000

PROGRAM PERFORMANCE

ENROLLMENT

In addition to assessing the menu of programs offered, it is also helpful to assess program performance. The extent of program performance can be measured by participation, financial performance, and the life cycle analysis.

Total enrollment in Wheeling Park District programs was 8,005 people in 2022. Aquatics had the highest enrollment figures with 1,902 participants, followed by camps at 1,568, and special events at 1,192. Figure 4.9 includes all program enrollment by core program area and season for 2022.

Figure 4.10: 2022 Enrollment-Based Participation

Special events had the highest enrollment-based participation in the winter (582), followed by aquatics (454) and youth athletics (229). Camps had the highest enrollment-based participation in the spring/summer (1,568), followed by aquatics (825) and youth athletics (379). The fall 2022 season’s top enrollment was in aquatics (623), followed by fitness (404) and youth athletics (357). Figure 4.10 displays enrollment for each core program area as a percentage of the whole. Even though there were only 59 participants registered for golf lessons in 2022, Chevy Chase hosted 33,265 rounds of golf during the year.

3%

3% 2% 1%

3%

24%

5% 6% 7%

20%

12% 15%

• Aquatics • Martial Arts • Athletics - Youth • Golf

54

• Creative • Special Events • Active Adults • Athletics - Adult

• Early Childhood • Camp • Fitness • BASR

Aquatics accounted for nearly one-quarter (24%) of 2022 enrollments, and camp accounted for nearly one-fifth (20%) of the programming, with special events rounding out the top three at 15% of total program enrollment.

Aquatics accounted for 44% of the program menu and 24% of all enrollments, which is typically due to smaller class size and the advertisement of several course sections that can be combined, if needed.

Wheeling Park District | Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan

4.0 Analysis

CANCELLATION RATE The difference between the number of courses offered and the number of courses held results in the cancellation rate.

Typically, a desirable cancellation rate is between 10% and 20%, with 12% to 15% being most ideal. Any higher than 20% indicates that staff are doing a lot of work preparing for and marketing courses that do not run.

Wheeling Park District’s cancellation rate for 2022 was very low at 7.6% (60 programs canceled compared to 783 offered).

A higher rate will generally indicate one of two things: Either the programming team has been tasked with trying new, innovative programs that have not yet been successful, or the programs being offered are not meeting the needs of the community.

A lower rate will generally indicate one of two things: Either Wheeling Park District is well connected to the desires of the community, or programming staff do not feel safe or comfortable trying new things and failing. Wheeling Park District should evaluate programming opportunities and encourage innovation with staff.

EVALUATING SUCCESS Wheeling Park District uses three key points of measurement (KPMs) to evaluate and monitor its success: the number of guest experiences, financials, and the net promoter score (NPS).

Each year, Wheeling Park District has a goal for total participants who will attend programs, drop-in gym activities, events; play golf; or use the fitness center. Each month, the totals are tabulated and shared with staff. For special events that do not require pre-registration or tickets, participants cannot be counted, so Wheeling Park District measures what it is able to measure via registration data.

For the financials, a goal is set for three areas: corporate, recreation and Chevy Chase. Each month, the total revenue for each is tabulated and shared with staff.

The NPS is a popular customer experience metric that helps Wheeling Park District track those customers who will actively recommend Wheeling Park District to their friends.

A schedule for program evaluations is created prior to the start of each fiscal year. Following a program or event, participants are asked one specific question such as: On a scale of 1–10, with 10 being the highest, how likely are you to recommend Wheeling Park District’s Winter Break Camp to your friends and family?

On a scale of 1–10, with 10 being the highest, how likely are you to recommend Wheeling Park District’s rentals to your friends and family?

On a scale of 1–10, with 10 being the highest, how likely is it that you would recommend Chevy Chase Country Club to a friend or colleague?

On a scale of 1–10, with 10 being the highest, how likely are you to recommend the Gable Bar & Grill to your friends and family?

Those who respond with a 6 or less are considered detractors; those who select a 7 or 8 are considered passives; and those who select a 9 or a 10 are considered promoters. The NPS is calculated by taking the percentage of promoters and subtracting the percentage of detractors. This number is then multiplied by 100 to get a whole number. The overall goal is to increase the number of promoters and decrease the number of detractors.

The goals and strong results for 2022 are summarized in table 4.4.

KPM Goals and Results for 2022 Metric

Goal

Result

Variance

Participation

414,857

497,573

+82,716

Finances

$3,902,764

$4,699,817

+$797,053

70%

70.25%

+0.25%

NPS Table 4.4: KPM Goals and Results for 2022

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4.0 Analysis

PARTICIPANT REACH To depict where Wheeling Park District’s participants are coming from, a map (Figure 4.11) was created of unique participants for 2022. This map shows the boundaries of Wheeling Park District and the travel distance from the Community Recreation Center. Each purple dot represents the address of a unique household. The greatest participation is by households on the northwest side of Wheeling Park District. The map also depicts many nonresidents Wheeling Park District is serving in enrollment-based programs.

The unique users heat map in Figure 4.11 represents unique participants, meaning it recorded the participant’s household location only once—regardless of the number of programs that person participated in throughout 2022. In the smaller map on the bottom, yellow represents the highest concentration of participant households, whereas blue indicates the lowest concentration. This information can help with targeting marketing to specific areas of the community where there is higher population density.

Figure 4.11: Unique Wheeling Park District Participants, 2022 56

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4.0 Analysis

LIFE CYCLE ANALYSIS The program assessment included a life cycle analysis of programs selected for review. This type of assessment helps determine if Wheeling Park District staff need to develop new and more creative programs, reposition declining programs, or continue with the current balance of life cycle states. BerryDunn based this assessment

on staff member opinions of how their core programs were categorized according to five life cycle stages: startup, growth, plateau, renewal, and decline. Table 4.5 describes the five program life cycles and the percentages of Wheeling Park District programs in each for 2022.

Life Cycle Stages Life Cycle Stage

Description

Wheeling Park District Percentage

Startup

Getting a program off the ground, heavy marketing

1.5%

Growth

Moderate and interested customer base, high demand, not as intense marketing

38.2%

Plateau

Steady and reliable performer but increased competition

33.8%

Renewal

Retooling programs to make them fresh and new

22.1%

Decline

Decreased registration

4.4%

Table 4.5: Life Cycle Stages

Figure 4.12 depicts the percentage of programs in each life cycle state. A healthy balance between the stages is optimal, with a bulk of programs in the growth, plateau, and renewal stages. Wheeling Park District has very little programming in the startup and decline stages, with over 94% of programming in the growth, plateau, and renewal stages.

Decline 4.4%

Renewal 22.1%

Startup 1.5%

Growth 38.2%

Plateau 33.8%

Figure 4.12: Life Cycle Stages

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4.0 Analysis As a normal part of the planning cycle, there should always be programs in the startup stage that introduce new programming to the menu. Wheeling Parks District’s percentage of programs in the startup stage is somewhat low. Efforts should be made to encourage the introduction of new programs to balance the menu.

District has a healthy mix of programs in the growth, plateau, and renewal stages.

Figure 4.13 visually represents all major program categories and their respective spread across life cycle stages.

Staff should strive to have programming for each core area that fall into the five life cycle stages, with the majority in the growth, plateau, and renewal stages. With only special events having some programs in the startup stage, creating programs in other areas is recommended.

There will typically also be programs in the decline stage; those programs should either be repositioned (as part of the renewal stage) or decommissioned. The Wheeling Park

Active Adults Aquatics Drop-In Fitness Heritage Park Sports Complex Recreation Programs Rentals Special Events Youth/Adult Sports

0

10%

20%

30%

• Startup

40%

50%

• Growth

• Plateau

Figure 4.13: Life Cycle Distribution of Programs

58

Wheeling Park District | Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan

60% • Renewal

70%

80%

• Decline

90%

100%

4.0 Analysis

ALIGNMENT WITH COMMUNITY NEED The community engagement process resulted in a significant amount of program-related feedback, which is included in the Engagement Summary. This section highlights the most common suggestions from all the community engagement efforts as well as subsequent gaps that could be filled with new programs (summarized by age group).

Early Childhood:

Adult Programming:

•

Dance/movement classes

•

•

Visual arts (drawing, painting, clay)

Programs geared for adults, not teens, which are not sports related, such as do-it-yourself (DIY) and lifelong learning classes

•

Music classes

•

•

One-day events for parents/children

More evening and weekend programming for those who still work full time

•

Youth

•

•

Additional dance classes/adding a recital to the current dance program

Dance (ballet, cultural)

•

•

Cooking

Spanish, English as a second language, and sign language.

•

Performing arts (music, choir, dance, drama, improv)

•

Cooking/baking for healthy eating

•

•

Visual arts (drawing, painting, clay)

Visual arts (drawing, oil painting, ceramics, knitting, sewing)

•

Health, wellness, and fitness

•

Pickleball with more options: lessons, drills for intermediate players, advanced

•

Gymnastics, cheer

•

•

More organized sports: baseball, basketball, soccer, and volleyball

New group fitness offerings and more options for water aerobics

•

More volleyball (leagues and open gym)

ballroom,

belly,

folkloric,

Teens:

Active Adult Programming:

•

Gaming/eSports

•

•

Frisbee golf, disc golf, putting league

More trips; lots of suggestions made regarding potential locations

•

Babysitting certification

•

Mind/body classes

•

Social activities

•

Visual arts

Family Programming: •

Community theatre for all ages

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4.0 Analysis

4.3 TRENDS ANALYSIS

DIVERSITY, EQUITY, AND INCLUSION DEI has become increasingly important in communities throughout the United States. This includes access to parks, facilities, and programs in all parts of a community.

As the park and recreation field continues to function within a more diverse society, race and ethnicity will become increasingly important in every aspect of the profession. More than ever, recreation professionals will be expected to work with, and have significant knowledge and understanding of, individuals from many cultural, racial, and ethnic backgrounds.

INTRODUCTION The following sections summarize regional and national trends that may be relevant to Wheeling Park District. This report details some of the interests identified during the in-person public engagement process.

Staff can use the information in this report when planning new programs, considering additions to parks and new park amenities, and creating the annual budget and capital improvement plan. Understanding trends can also help an organization reach new audiences and determine where to direct additional data collection efforts.

A wide variety of sources were used in gathering information for this report, including: American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) American Council on Exercise (ACE) Forbes Harris Poll Results/The Stagwell Group NRPA The Aspen Institute The Learning Resource Network (LERN) The New York Times The Outdoor Industry Association

Wheeling Park District hired The Kaleidoscope Group to conduct an internal DEI culture assessment. The Kaleidoscope Group facilitated a workplace inclusion survey with the staff. The recommendations from the final report from The Kaleidoscope Group are included in this report.

PARTNERSHIPS (PUBLIC, PRIVATE, AND INTRADEPARTMENTAL) Burgeoning populations require access to facilities outside of the current inventory in typical parks and recreation agencies, and the ability to partner with other agencies within a municipality is crucial to meeting the programming needs of a community. Forming healthy partnerships with public libraries and school districts to utilize facilities and collaborate on programs is one of the top priorities for agencies that do not currently have agreements in place. Additionally, offering cooperative, consortium-based programs with existing nonprofit and private entities allows several organizations to join partnerships to collectively offer programs in niche areas. For example, if one organization has the best computer labs, facilities, and instructors, then they offer that program for the consortium. The COVID-19 pandemic has reinforced the need for partnerships due to budget and staff cuts.

The results of the staff engagement indicate that more partnerships are needed in several areas throughout the organization.

The Society of Health and Physical Educators (SHAPE America) USA Pickleball website 60

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4.0 Analysis

SIGNAGE AND WAYFINDING

BEFORE- AND AFTER-SCHOOL CARE PROGRAMS

To increase perception and advocacy, a parks and recreation professional needs to prioritize opportunities that impact the way the community experiences the system. This often starts with signage, wayfinding, and park identity. The importance of park identity to encourage awareness of locations and amenities cannot be understated. A park system impacts the widest range of users in a community, reaching users and nonusers across all demographic, psychographic, behavioral, and geographic markets. In a narrower focus, the park system is the core service an agency can use to provide value to its community (e.g., partnerships between departments or commercial/residential development, high-quality and safe experiences for users, inviting community landscaping contributing to the overall look or image of the community). Signage, wayfinding, and park identity can be the first step in continued engagement by the community, and a higher perception or awareness of a park system, which can lead to an increase in health outcomes.

Many park and recreation agencies offer before- and afterschool care programs. These programs may include fitness/ play opportunities, healthy snacks, and tutoring/homework services. According to an NRPA poll, 85% of U.S. adults believe that before- and after-school programs offered by local park and recreation agencies are important.

According to the 2021 Out-of-School Time Report, approximately 83% of local parks and recreation agencies offer afterschool programming. Figure 4.16 demonstrates the top four benefits of after school programs for youth as determined by parks and recreation professionals.

Wheeling Park District has several ongoing projects to improve wayfinding and signage, including adding mile markers and interpretive signage at Heritage Park.

In addition, Wheeling Park District is adding new community signage to more effectively direct people to parks and facilities.

PROGRAM-RELATED TRENDS NICHE PROGRAMMING Decades ago, recreation agencies focused on offering an entire set of programs for a general audience. Since that time, market segments have been developed, such as programming specifically for seniors. Recently, more market segments have been developed for specialty audiences, such as the LBTIQA+ community, retirees, military veterans, cancer patients, people needing mental health support, and individuals with disabilities. Organizations are taking a much more holistic approach to program and service offerings beyond what is typically thought of as a recreation program.

Source: 2021 NRPA Out-of-School Time Report

Figure 4.16: Overview of Key Highlights from NRPA’s 2021 Outof-School Time Report

Wheeling Park District works with the local school districts to provide a robust BASR program. The program is held at the Community Recreation Center, and children are bussed to and from their respective schools.

Wheeling Park District is a member agency of NWSRA, which provides programs and services for those in the community with disabilities. More niche programming could be added in the future.

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4.0 Analysis COMMUNITY AND SPECIAL EVENTS Community-wide events and festivals often act as essential place-making activities for residents, economic drivers, and urban brand builders. This phenomenon is described in Governing Magazine: “Municipal officials and entrepreneurs see the power of cultural festivals, innovation-focused business conferences and the like as a way to spur short-term tourism while shaping an image of the host city as a cool, dynamic location where companies and citizens in modern, creative industries can thrive.”

According to the 2022 Event Trends Report by Eventbrite, the following trends are expected to impact event planners and community builders in the coming years: •

•

•

Strength in Diverse Communities: The pandemic built a different source of community through virtual events.

Virtual events enabled audiences to expand in terms of being able to include broader reach to different ages, ethnicities, geographic locations, rural communities, and those with disabilities. Event organizers are also looking to diversify entertainers and presenters.

Go Green: The trend of hosting green events is here to stay. Although the pandemic impacted responses around making events environmentally friendly a priority, with a return to in-person events, it will certainly make a turn around. Virtual events have had a major impact on carbon footprints. According to a 2021 Nature Communications study, virtual events decreased carbon footprints by 94% and energy use by 90%.

Optimism, Resiliency, and Creativity: Event organizers are still feeling some uncertainty around a resurgence in COVID-19 cases; however, 75% of respondents indicated they are optimistic about future events. The pandemic has left organizers feeling more adaptable, innovative, and creative. Half of organizers around the globe indicated COVID-19 made their teams more resilient.

Wheeling Park District offers a wide variety of community events that attract both residents and nonresidents. Many of these events are free and well attended. Although there is interest in more events, Wheeling Park District is likely at capacity; therefore, new events should replace old events so that the total offered does not increase.

62

PERFORMING ARTS AND CULTURAL PROGRAMMING Agencies across the country use indoor and outdoor facilities for art, cultural, and musical experiences. Parks and recreation professionals and artists are partnering to create a community atmosphere that bolsters creativity and accessibility while encouraging physical activity. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends the following strategies for building these partnerships: •

Join a community-based group that plans and develops projects designed to make an activity-friendly community.

•

Partner with Wheeling Park District leaders and community-based groups to increase the use of parks by adding design elements that reflect local cultural traditions.

•

Include creative place-making when developing a strategy for community development; creative place-making integrates arts, culture, and design into public spaces to promote well-being and increase physical activity.

•

Create inclusive ways for community members to be involved with community development decision-making.

Wheeling Park District offers a few youth dance classes. Public engagement participants requested additional dance, music, and performing arts classes (community theatre). Northbrook (the community directly to the east) and Buffalo Grove (the community to the north) have robust performing arts programming.

Wheeling Park District | Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan

4.0 Analysis

FARMERS MARKET Parks and recreation agencies often have the role of connecting communities to local, fresh foods. In fact, many local agencies are the largest providers of federally funded meals for the public. One in five agencies manage a farmers market.

There are many benefits to farmers markets. Beyond providing fresh foods to the public and promoting agricultural and economic benefits for farmers and vendors, they also enable culture building and engagement. According to a study by the NRPA in 2019 of 296 agencies, approximately 67% of organizations host farmers markets once a week, with 21% offering it two or three times a week. Roughly four in five agencies use partnerships with nonprofits, farmers organizations, other local government departments, community development organizations, and the local extensions office to enhance the success of the farmers market. Figure 4.17 provides an overview of the NRPA Farmers Market Report.

Neither Wheeling Park District nor the Village currently provide a farmers market for residents. This was attempted in the past but was unsuccessful. Four surrounding communities (Northbrook, Buffalo Grove, Arlington Heights, and Mount Prospect) do offer farmers markets.

SPORT PARTICIPATION The following tables demonstrate the change in time over five years (2016 to 2021) for sports relevant to planning from the Sports and Fitness Industry Association (SFIA) 2022 Topline Report. This data was gathered from the U.S. population age 6 and over.

For each sport, there are two categories that define the level of activity. “Casual” refers to users who participated in the study between 1 and 12 times in the past 12 months. CORE refers to users who participated more than 13 times in the last 12 months. The 1-year, 2-year, and 5-year average annual growth (AAG) is then charted in the tables to indicate the level of change for the following sports: Baseball/softball

Volleyball

Football

Soccer

Lacrosse

Basketball

Pickleball

Source: 2021 NRPA Out-of-School Time Report

Figure 4.17: Overview of NRPA Farmers Market Report

Regarding fitness activities (Figure 4.18), walking for exercise was the most popular, with over 33% of adult participation.

Jogging or running followed, with almost 17% of adult participation. Swimming and weightlifting have nearly the same adult participation, hovering around 15%.

The most popular outdoor recreation activities (Figure 4.19) in 2021 were hiking (23%), road bicycling (14%), and freshwater fishing and canoeing or kayaking (both around 15%).

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4.0 Analysis BASEBALL/SOFTBALL Wheeling Park District does not provide youth baseball or youth softball opportunities. Instead, it rents field time to affiliate groups that do. Wheeling Park District does provide adult softball leagues (men’s 12” and 16” and co-rec 14”) during the summer and the fall, but these leagues are declining in participation.

Casual participation in baseball decreased 8.6% in one year. However, fast-pitch softball saw a significant increase of 43.8%. Slow-pitch softball participation trends have decreased over the last several years. Table 4.6 includes the sports participation for baseball/softball from 2016 to 2021.

Sport Participation for Baseball/Softball, 2016 to 2021 Definition Baseball

1-year change 2021

2-year change 2020

5-year AAG 2016

-0.9%

-1.4%

1.1%

Casual

1 – 12 times

-8.6%

11.1%

5.9%

CORE

13+ times

7.2%

-10.4%

-1.7%

15.3%

-6.9%

-2.6%

Softball (Fast Pitch) Casual

1 – 12 times

43.8%

-5.9%

-1.7%

CORE

13+ times

-0.6%

-7.6%

-1.8%

-5.4%

-15.0%

-4.7%

Casual

1 – 12 times

-0.9%

-9.7%

-4.0%

CORE

13+ times

-8.8%

-19.0%

-5.3%

Softball (Slow Pitch)

Table 4.6: Sport Participation for Baseball/Softball, 2016 to 2021 Source: 2022 SFIA Topline Report FOOTBALL Casual participation for tackle football and touch football have seen a 6%–10% increase in the last year, with flag football participation decreasing by 3.5%. Participation in flag football and tackle football increased more than 9% in the past two years. CORE participation in tackle and touch have decreased, particularly for touch football. Table 4.7 includes sports participation in football from 2016 to 2021.

Wheeling Park District does not currently provide opportunities for flag, tackle, or touch football for youth or adults. Prospect Heights Wheeling Youth Football (PHWYFA) does provide these opportunities for Wheeling youth. Wheeling Park District plans to offer instructional flag football in fall 2023.

Sport Participation for Baseball/Softball, 2016 to 2021 Definition Football (Flag) Casual

1 – 12 times

CORE

13+ times

Football (Tackle)

1-year change 2021

2-year change 2020

5-year AAG 2016

-1.60%

1.60%

2.30%

-3.50%

9.00%

5.10%

1.40%

-7.90%

-1.10%

3.40%

2.40%

-0.90%

Casual

1 – 12 times

10.60%

9.50%

3.50%

CORE

13+ times

-3.00%

-4.00%

-4.40%

0.80%

-5.50%

-3.00%

Football (Touch) Casual

1 – 12 times

6.10%

3.40%

-0.70%

CORE

13+ times

-7.70%

-18.60%

-6.30%

Table 4.7: Sport Participation for Football, 2016 to 2021 Source: 2022 SFIA Topline Report 64

Wheeling Park District | Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan

4.0 Analysis LACROSSE Wheeling Park District does not currently provide opportunities for lacrosse for youth, teens, or adults.

Wheeling High School will offer an independent team in 2023–2024 school year. Arlington Attack (youth lacrosse) is available for those who want to play lacrosse.

Wheeling Park District will continue to evaluate local interest in this sport.

Casual participation in lacrosse increased significantly in the past year (11.9%). However, CORE participation decreased 10.1% in the past year. Overall, the five-year AAG was -1.8%, but participation trends indicate that casual participation is increasing. Table 4.8 includes the sports participation for lacrosse from 2016 to 2021.

Sport Participation for Lacrosse, 2016 to 2021 Definition

1-year change 2021

2-year change 2020

5-year AAG 2016

0.40%

-10.60%

-1.80%

Lacrosse Casual

1 – 12 times

11.90%

-1.20%

-2.30%

CORE

13+ times

-10.10%

-19.30%

-0.90%

Table 4.8: Sport Participation for Lacrosse, 2016 to 2021 Source: 2022 SFIA Topline Report PICKLEBALL Wheeling Park District provides opportunities for indoor and outdoor pickleball. Six courts were added to Chamber Park in 2016. Wheeling Park District also provides pickleball instruction and open gym opportunities.

With 8.9 million people in the country playing pickleball in 2023, it is a trend not to be taken lightly. Though not at its peak, pickleball is still trending nationwide as the fastest growing sport in America with the active aging demographic, as 75% of core players are age 55 or older. The game has developed a passionate following due to its friendly, social nature and its multigenerational appeal.

Recreation facilities such as tennis or basketball courts can be temporarily or permanently converted to pickleball courts by lining a court. One consideration to recreation professionals before lining tennis courts is potential interference with competitive tennis requirements. Best practices regarding pickleball setup and programming can be found on the official website for the United States Pickleball Association. Table 4.9 includes the sports participation for pickleball from 2016 to 2021.

Sports Participation for Pickleball 2016 to 2023 Definition

1-year change 2021

2-year change 2020

5-year AAG 2016

14.8%

39.3%

11.5%

Pickleball Casual

1 – 12 times

21.9%

56.5%

15.4%

CORE

13+ times

0.1%

9.0%

4.4%

Table 4.9: Sport Participation for Pickleball, 2016 to 2021 Source: 2022 SFIA Topline Report

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4.0 Analysis SOCCER Wheeling Park District provides fall soccer leagues for youth and adults as well as several training opportunities. Wheeling Park District offers field time to several local youth affiliate groups that also provide opportunities to Wheeling residents.

The SFIA report indicates that indoor and outdoor soccer participation has increased slightly over the past five years; however, last year, there was a notable 14.1% increase for CORE participation for both indoor and outdoor soccer.

Table 4.10 includes the sports participation in soccer from 2016 to 2021.

Sport Participation for Soccer, 2016 to 2021 Definition

1-year change 2021

2-year change 2020

5-year AAG 2016

-0.6%

1.4%

1.2%

Soccer (Indoor) Casual

1 – 12 times

-9.6%

18.3%

6.4%

CORE

13+ times

14.1%

-14.5%

-2.3%

0.9%

5.4%

1.1%

Soccer (Outdoor) Casual

1 –12 times

-9.3%

10.5%

4.2%

CORE

13+ times

21.7%

-1.6%

-1.4%

Table 4.10: Sport Participation for Soccer, 2016 to 2021 Source: 2022 SFIA Topline Report BASKETBALL The SFIA report indicates casual and CORE participation in basketball has mostly grown steadily over the last five years. In the past year, however, there has been an almost 8% decrease in casual basketball participation. Table 4.11 includes the sports participation in basketball from 2016 to 2021.

Wheeling Park District provides very successful youth basketball leagues for both girls and boys. There are no programs for teens. There is one league for adults, but participation has been waning.

Sport Participation for Basketball, 2016 to 2021 Definition

1-year change 2021

2-year change 2020

5-year AAG 2016

-2.20%

8.90%

4.10%

Basketball Casual

1 – 12 times

-7.90%

14.00%

8.60%

CORE

13+ times

2.10%

5.70%

1.60%

Table 4.11: Sport Participation for Basketball, 2016 to 2021 Source: 2022 SFIA Topline Report

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4.0 Analysis VOLLEYBALL Although Wheeling Park District provides adult volleyball leagues, participation has been waning.

During the engagement process, there were requests for more volleyball leagues and open gym opportunities. Wheeling Park District has provided classes and clinics for youth but not a volleyball league.

Volleyball has experienced a decline in participation over the past five years, with both casual and CORE participation decreasing. However, interest and participation in sports vary by region, age group, and other factors. This national perspective provides just one indicator that volleyball may be on the decline. Table 4.12 outlines participation in volleyball from 2016 to 2021.

Sport Participation for Volleyball, 2016 to 2021 Definition

1-year change 2021

2-year change 2020

5-year AAG 2016

-3.2%

-4.9%

-5.2%

Volleyball (Beach/Sand) Casual

1 – 12 times

-6.0%

0.4%

-5.8%

CORE

13+ times

4.2%

-15.2%

-2.9%

8.1%

-9.8%

-0.8%

Volleyball (Court) Casual

1 – 12 times

11.9%

-16.8%

-2.0%

CORE

13+ times

5.5%

-4.0%

0.2%

2.5%

-10.5%

-7.8%

Volleyball (Grass) Casual

1 – 12 times

2.5%

-14.2%

-9.6%

CORE

13+ times

2.7%

-1.8%

-3.1%

Table 4.12 Sport Participation for Volleyball, 2016 to 2021

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4.0 Analysis

ESTIMATED LOCAL PARTICIPATION This next section showcases the participation in fitness activities, outdoor recreation, and sports teams for adults 25 and older in the area compared to the state. Activity participation and consumer behavior is based on a specific methodology and survey data to makeup what Esri terms “Market Potential Index.”

Regarding fitness activities (Figure 4.18), walking for exercise was the most popular, with over 33% of adult participation.

Jogging or running followed, with almost 17% of adult participation. Swimming and weightlifting have nearly the same adult participation, hovering around 15%.

The most popular outdoor recreation activities (Figure 4.19) in 2021 were hiking (23%), road bicycling (14%), and freshwater fishing and canoeing or kayaking (both around 15%).

Figure 4.18: Adult Participation in Fitness Activities 40%

33.79%

35% 30% 25% 20%

16.85%

15%

15.91%

15.39%

14.27%

11.18%

10% 5.85%

5%

3.10%

0% Aerobics

Jogging or Running

Pilates

Swimming

Walking for Exercise

Weight Lifting

Wheeling Park District

Yoga

Zumba

IL

Figure 4.19: Adult Participation in Outdoor Recreation Activities 23.22%

25% 20% 14.27%

15% 10%

8.51% 4.82%

5%

5.85%

4.64%

8.43% 4.90%

3.87%

2.49%

1.55%

Wheeling Park District

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0.95%

2.75%

idi ng Hu nti ng wi th Rifl Hu e nti ng wi th Sh otg un Ro ck Cli mb ing Sk iin g( Do wn hil l) Tar ge tS ho oti ng

ing Hik

Ho rse ba ck R

Bic ycl ing (M ou nta in) Bic ycl ing (Ro ad ) Bo ati ng (Po we Ca r) no ein go rK aya kin Fis g hin g( Fre sh Wa ter ) Fis hin g( Sa lt W ate r)

Ba ckp ack ing

Arc he ry

0%

1.12%

6.10%

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4.0 Analysis

FITNESS TRENDS

OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

Each year, the ACSM conducts a survey of worldwide fitness trends. Now in its 16th year, the ACSM circulates an electronic survey to thousands of fitness professionals around the world to determine health and fitness trends. The list below includes the top 10 fitness trends for 2022.

WEARABLE TECHNOLOGY Wearable technology, which includes activity trackers, smartwatches, heart rate monitors, GPS tracking devices, and smart eyeglasses (designed to show maps and track activity), has been one of the top three trends since 2016.

Examples include fitness and activity trackers such as those from Misfit, Garmin, Pebble Time, Samsung, Basis, Jawbone, Fitbit, and Apple. These devices can track heart rate, calories, sitting time, and much more. It is estimated that wearable technology is a $95-billion industry.

HOME EXERCISE GYMS The trend in home exercise gyms has risen because of the COVID-19 pandemic, and this trend is expected to continue.

Home gyms allows participants to choose what equipment they invest in at various price points and can be used by individuals or as a family. However, for this trend to continue, home gym businesses will need to lower equipment costs to keep participants working out at home instead of a traditional gym.

Likely because of the COVID-19 pandemic, outdoor activities such as group walks, group rides, or organized hiking groups are gaining popularity. These can be short events, daylong events, or planned weeklong excursions. Typically, people meet at a local park, hiking area, or bike trail with a designated leader. This trend for health and fitness professionals to offer outdoor activities to clients began in 2010 and has been in the top 20 ever since 2012. This has become much more popular the past several months as agencies work to offer fitness programs outdoors that help ensure physical distancing.

STRENGTH TRAINING WITH FREE WEIGHTS Strength training remains popular in all sectors of the health and fitness industry and for many kinds of clients. Free weights, barbells, kettlebells, dumbbells, and medicine ball classes do not just incorporate equipment into another functional class or activity. Instructors begin by teaching the proper form and technique for each exercise and then progressively increase the resistance. New exercises are added periodically, starting with proper form and technique. Many younger clients of both community-based programs and commercial clubs train almost exclusively using weights.

In today’s gyms, however, there are many others (men and women, young and older adults, children, and patients with stable chronic diseases) whose focus is using weight training to improve or maintain strength.

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4.0 Analysis becoming more accessible online, in clubs, in the home, and in worksites with fitness facilities. Many fitness centers continued to offer personal training during the COVID-19 pandemic. Since this survey was first published in 2006, personal training has been ranked in the top 10.

HIGH-INTENSITY INTERVAL TRAINING (HIIT) HIIT involves short bursts of high-intensity exercise followed by a short period of rest or recovery and typically takes fewer than 30 minutes to perform (although it is not uncommon for these programs to be much longer in duration). HIIT has been a top five trend since 2014. Despite warnings by some fitness experts of the potential for increased injury using HIIT, this form of exercise is popular in fitness centers all over the world.

BODY WEIGHT TRAINING Body weight training uses minimal equipment, which makes it an affordable way to exercise effectively. Although most people think of body weight training as being limited to push-ups and pull-ups, it can be much more than that. This type of training first appeared in the trends survey in 2013 at number three.

ONLINE LIVE AND ON-DEMAND EXERCISE CLASSES Previously, this trend has been “virtual online training” or “online training;” however, this was changed in 2022 to specify what type of online classes are trending. COVID-19 forced closures of exercise programming in many spaces, which resulted in an increase in online training for at-home exercise classes. This trend can be offered live or prerecorded to groups and individuals. Prerecorded sessions offer clients the chance to take these classes no matter their schedule.

HEALTH AND WELLNESS COACHING EXERCISE FOR WEIGHT LOSS Another trend that has increased because of the COVID-19 pandemic is exercising for weight loss. This trend has been in the top 20 since the beginning of the survey, but peaked at number five in 2022, a rise from 16 in 2021. Participants are moving toward this trend because the pandemic caused perceived or real weight gain, and diet programs generally recommend supplementing with exercise.

PERSONAL TRAINING Personal training is a one-on-one workout with a trainer that begins with fitness testing and goal setting. The trainer then works with the client and prescribes workouts specific to their needs. The profession of personal training is

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Health and wellness coaching bridges behavioral science by promoting a healthy lifestyle and programs to support that lifestyle. Typically, this coaching is one-on-one and consists of goal setting and support, guidance, and encouragement.

The coach focuses on the specific needs and wants of the client’s lifestyle and values.

Wheeling Park District provides a comprehensive Health & Fitness center, and membership includes group exercise classes. The weekly schedule offers 14 classes in the morning and early evening. The current class schedule does not accommodate working adults. During public engagement, there were requests for additional classes.

Wheeling Park District | Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan

4.0 Analysis WATER FITNESS Water fitness is a significant trend in the fitness industry, with many new programs popping up such as aqua yoga, Aqua Zumba, aqua spin, aqua step, and aqua boot camp. Whether recovering from an injury, looking for ease-of-movement exercise for diseases such as arthritis, or simply shaking up a fitness routine, all demographics are gravitating toward the water for fitness. Partnerships can be important for parks and recreation agencies, such as working with hospitals to accommodate cardiac patients and those living with arthritis or multiple sclerosis.

Wheeling Park District provides Aqua Fit classes on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday (one class per day). The current class schedule does not accommodate working adults. During the public engagement, there were requests for additional water fitness classes.

YOUTH AQUATIC PROGRAMMING Swim lessons generally include the most significant number of participants and revenues for public pool operations. Programs can be offered for all ages and levels, including private, semi-private, and group lessons. Access to swimming pools is a popular amenity for summer day camp programs, too.

Wheeling Park District provides a robust swim lesson program at the indoor pool throughout the year.

In addition to group lessons, Wheeling Park District offers both private and semi-private swim lessons for all ages.

SPRAY PARKS Spray parks (or spray grounds) are now a common replacement for aging swimming pools, particularly because they provide the community with an aquatic experience without the high cost of traditional pools. Spray parks do not require significant staffing, require only minimal maintenance, and offer a no-cost (or low-cost) alternative to a swimming pool.

A spray park typically appeals to children ages 2–12 and can be a standalone facility in a community or incorporated inside a family aquatic center.

AGE-RELATED AND GENERATIONAL TRENDS Wheeling Park District has spray ground features located within the Family Aquatic Center.

Although activity participation varies based on age, it also varies by generational preferences. The SFIA, in its 2020 report on generational activity, noted millennials comprised the highest percentage of those who were “active to a healthy level,” but a quarter also remained sedentary. Nearly 28% of Generation X were inactive, with baby boomers at 33% inactive. Baby boomers prefer low-impact fitness activities such as swimming, cycling aquatic exercise, and walking for fitness.

Generation Alpha Generation Z Millennials Generation X Baby Boomers Silent Generation

Born 2010–Present Born 1997–2010 Born 1981–1996 Born 1965–1980 Born 1946–1964 Born 1928–1945

A condensed list of generational trends from the Pew Research Center that may impact recreational services are presented below: •

Baby boomers are staying in the workforce longer than generations before them (2019).

•

Approximately 13% of teens (Generation Z) said they have had a major depressive episode in the last year (2019).

•

Those 60 and older (baby boomers) spend more than half of their leisure time (about four hours) a day in front of a screen (2019).

•

Generation Z is the most racially and ethnically diverse generation, with only 52% identifying as non-Hispanic whites (2018).

GENERATIONAL PROGRAMMING There has been an increase in the number of program offerings for families with children of all ages. This is a departure from past family programming that focused nearly entirely on younger children and preschoolers. Activities such as Family Fossil Hunt and Family Backpacking and Camping Adventure have proven very popular for families with teens.

This responsiveness to the Generation X and Generation Y parents of today is an important step, as these age groups place a high value on family. GameTime’s Challenge Course

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4.0 Analysis is an outdoor obstacle course that attracts people of all ages and backgrounds to socialize with family and friends while improving their fitness. This type of playground encourages multigenerational experiences.

TRENDS FOR YOUTH AGES 13 AND YOUNGER

YOUTH FITNESS The organization Reimagine Play developed a list of the top eight trends for youth fitness. The sources for this information include the ACSM’s Worldwide Survey of Fitness Trends, ACE Fitness, and SHAPE America. The top eight trends are as follows: •

Physical education classes are moving from sports activities to physical literacy curriculum that include teaching fundamentals in movement skills and healthy eating.

•

HIIT classes that involve bursts of high-intensity exercise followed by a short period of rest with classes ranging 30 minutes or less.

•

Wearable technology and digital fitness media, including activity trackers, smartwatches, heart rate monitors, GPS tracking devices, and smart eyeglasses and virtual headsets.

•

Ninja warrior training and gyms as a result of NBC’s premier shows American Ninja Warrior and Spartan Race.

•

Outdoor recreational activities including running, jogging, trail running, and BMX biking.

•

Family (intergenerational) fitness classes such as family fitness fairs, escape rooms, and obstacle races are gaining in popularity among Generation X and Y families who place a high value on family time.

•

Kids’ obstacle races in conjunction with adult obstacle races, such as the Tough Mudder, Spartan Race, and Warrior Dash.

•

Youth running clubs that also teach life skills such as risk-taking, goal setting, and team building.

STEM AND STEAM PROGRAMS STEM and STEAM programs—including arts programming— are growing in popularity. Some examples include classes focused on learning to code, designing video games, playing Minecraft, creating with Roblox (an online gaming platform and game creation system), engineering robots, printing 3D characters, and building laptops.

SUMMER AND SCHOOL BREAK CAMPS Participation in parks and recreation youth camp programs continues to be very strong. For some agencies, these programs are the most significant revenue producers.

NATURE-RELATED PROGRAMMING There is an international movement to connect children, their families, and their communities to nature called the New Nature Movement, and it is having an impact. In addition to new nature programming, nature-themed play spaces are becoming popular. Some park and recreation agencies are now offering outdoor preschool where the entire program takes place outside.

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TRENDS FOR TEENS/YOUNGER ADULTS AGES 13–24 Local parks and recreation agencies are often tasked with finding opportunities for teen programming beyond youth sports. As suicide is the second highest cause of death among U.S. teens, mental health continues to be a priority for this age group. Activities such as meditation, yoga, sports, art, and civic engagement can help teens develop life skills and engage cognitive functions. Many agencies are also developing creative multigenerational activities, which may involve seniors and teens assisting one another to learn life skills. Agencies that can help teens develop career skills and continue their education are most successful in promoting positive teen outcomes and curbing at-risk behavior.

CHILD CARE According to the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), the value of the child care sector in the United States was $99 billion prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. Unfortunately, this is one of the industries that was hit the hardest, as it relies on the ability of customers to safely show up day after day and pay for the privilege.

It has been estimated that nearly 20,000 day care facilities may have closed across the country due to the pandemic.

Those that remain open will likely have to increase tuition. In a study by the NAEYC, 47% of programs indicated that they have raised tuition and taken on new debt to stay open and serve families.

The United States had a child care crisis before COVID-19, and the pandemic exacerbated this. Currently, child care providers receive no meaningful public investment and essentially operate as small businesses. Child care providers are treated like private enterprises, like private gyms, as these small businesses rely solely on tuition fees. While there are public subsidies available to child care providers to support the enrollment of children from low-income families, federal and state government support is minimal. Most child care providers operate on very thin margins with little cash reserves, and the complete loss of revenue has forced many of these businesses to close their doors.

Constituents might put pressure on parks and recreation agencies to bridge the gap and provide safe, affordable child care options for residents.

Wheeling Park District provides many programs for youth, including BASR, swim lessons, sports, summer camps, holiday break camps, and dance. There are opportunities for STEM/STEAM programming, youth fitness, and nature-related programming.

ESPORTS eSports (also known as electronic sports, esports, or eSports) is a form of competition using video games. Forbes reported in December 2019 that eSports audiences exceed 443 million people across the world, and the International Olympic Committee is considering classifying it as a new Olympic sport. Local recreation offerings can include training classes, open play, tournaments, and major competition viewing. A new recreation center in Westerville, Ohio, includes a dedicated eSports room, and college campuses across the country are also launching eSports programs. Florida Southern College offers eSports as a club sport for both community and competitive players. Florida Tech also has a dedicated eSports facility. As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, many parks and recreation agencies are including eSports in their programming mix.

PARKOUR Parkour is a physical training discipline that challenges the participant to move their body through obstacle courses, like military training. Using body movements such as running, jumping, and swinging, the participant moves through static indoor courses or outdoor urban environments.

OUTDOOR ACTIVE RECREATION This includes activities such as kayaking, canoeing, stand-up paddleboarding, mountain biking, and climbing. Rentals for those who want to try before they buy are popular in many areas. All these activities have experienced an increase since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. A survey by Civic Science found that those between 13 and 34 years old were the most likely age group to indicate that they planned to participate in more outdoor activities because of COVID-19related shutdowns.

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BICYCLING According to the Aspen Institute, bicycling became the third most popular sport for kids in 2020. Skate park usage surged as well.

LIFE SPORTS According to the Learning Resources Network’s “Top Trends in Recreation Programming, Marketing and Management” article, life sports are a new priority in the recreation world, where the focus is on developing youth interests in activities that they can enjoy for a lifetime, such as biking, kayaking, tennis, golf, swimming, and jogging/walking.

HOLISTIC HEALTH Parks and recreation’s role in maintaining a holistic lifestyle will continue to grow. People are seeking opportunities to practice mindfulness, authentic living, and disconnection from electronic media. Programs to support mental health, including those that help to combat anxiety, perfectionism, and substance abuse in youth and young adults, are increasingly needed. The United Nations has urged governments around the world to take the mental health consequences of COVID-19 seriously and help ensure the widespread availability of mental health support to constituents.

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Wheeling Park District provides very few programs specifically for the teen population: 3% of programs offered are geared toward those 13–17 years of age.

For young adults, there are several fitness programs and sports opportunities. Based on public input, adult dance and general interest programming are desired.

TRENDS FOR ADULTS AGES 25–54 AEROBIC ACTIVITIES For most age groups, swimming for fitness and weight training are the two most frequently mentioned activities in which people indicate interest. Running, walking, and biking for fitness continue to show strong and consistent growth. A good balance of equipment and classes is necessary to keep consistent with trends.

FUN FITNESS Fun fitness is a current trend. Exercises such as P90x, Insanity, and CrossFit have proven that a lot of equipment is not required to get fit. Since these programs have become popular, newer versions have become available, some cutting the time it takes to look and feel fit in half. These types of classes have been growing and will continue to grow in popularity at recreation departments and fitness centers.

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4.0 Analysis GROUP CYCLING

ENCORE PROGRAMMING

Group cycling continues in popularity, as younger fitness enthusiasts embrace this high-performance group exercise activity as well as program variations developed to attract the beginner participant.

This is a program area for baby boomers who are soon to be retired and focuses on a broad range of programs to prepare people for transitions into retirement activities. Popular programs for the 55+ market include fitness and wellness (specifically yoga, mindfulness, tai chi, relaxation, and personal training), drawing and painting, photography, languages, writing, computer and technology, social media, cooking, mahjong, card games, volunteering, and what to do during retirement.

YOGA While Pilates has shown an incredible 10-year growth trend, the past three years have seen a decline in participation.

Perhaps participation migrated to yoga, as participation is up across all levels for the year. Yoga is more class based, while Pilates is more of an individual activity. The millennial fitness participants (ages 25–39) are showing a higher propensity to go with group-oriented programs.

CORNHOLE (OR BAGS) Cornhole is a low-impact, low-cost activity that can be played by people of all ages. Young adults are signing up for leagues (that can be held indoors or outdoors and offered all year long). It does not take any skill, and it is a social activity.

Although it can be offered recreationally, some competitive leagues are offered, as well.

Wheeling Park District provides many active opportunities with the Health & Fitness Center, group exercise classes, pickleball, sports leagues, and drop-in activities (open gyms, the indoor track, and the indoor pool). There is a desire for more general interest programming for working adults with no children living in the household.

SPECIALIZED TOURS Participants seek more day trips that highlight unique local experiences or historical themes. For example, a focus on authentic food, guided night walks, bike tours, concentration on a specific artist’s work, and ghost walks are among the themes sought.

CREATIVE ENDEAVORS Improv classes are specifically targeting age groups with classes that promote creative endeavors. Workshops and groups help seniors play, laugh, and let loose while practicing mental stimulation, memory development, and flexibility.

BALANCE TRAINING Balance exercises have become increasingly important for older adults, particularly because they can help prevent falls and allow people to maintain their independence.

These exercises can help with balance and mobility for people of any age.

TRENDS FOR ADULTS AGES 55 AND OVER LIFELONG LEARNING A Pew Research Center survey found that 73% of adults consider themselves lifelong learners. DIY project classes and programs that focus on becoming a more well-rounded person are popular. Phrases such as “how to” can be added to the agency website’s search engine optimization, as consumers now turn to the internet as their first source of information regarding how-to projects. Safeguarding online privacy is also a trending course.

FITNESS AND WELLNESS Programs such as yoga, Pilates, tai chi, balance training, chair exercises, and others continue to be popular with older generations.

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4.0 Analysis

NRPA TOP TRENDS Each year, the NRPA publishes an article about industry trends and predictions in Parks and Recreation Magazine.

In the 2023 edition, trends focused on technology, health and wellness, worker satisfaction, and recreation program trends. Below are a few highlights from the article:

Only 4% of Wheeling Park District programs (that require registration and a fee) are geared to those over 55 years of age. The programs offered include trips, bingo, and a few events. All group fitness classes are available to this age group as well.

•

•

Parks and recreation agencies will be able to reduce their carbon footprint through the electrification of business elements such as buildings, vehicles, and equipment.

The switch to electronic power is healthier, cheaper, more efficient, and more environmentally friendly for our communities.

Five state park systems and one national park implemented programs that loan people with disabilities access to off-road, tracked, and powered wheelchairs.

This is just one of many ways parks and recreation agencies are looking to provide inclusive opportunities.

•

The lack of child care workers and lifeguards and the impact that has on parks and recreation agencies’ recreation is expected to continue. The child care workforce is one of the sectors that has not rebounded from the COVID-19 pandemic.

•

Pickleball has exploded onto the recreation scene; however, the loud volume coming from pickleball courts leaves little to be desired for those living nearby.

•

Digital twin mapping is used to provide 3D models of the actual physical environment and is compatible with GIS. The result of the two maps is a virtual image showing spatial relationships between objects, buildings, and elements of nature.

•

Anchor institutions, typically universities and hospitals, are nonprofit organizations that create strong bonds within their community. Parks and recreation agencies operate similarly and should be viewed as vital pieces of communities.

•

Parks and recreation agencies across the nation relaxed the use and sale of alcohol at parks, typically during special events. Recreational use of cannabis is now on the rise, with 21 states allowing recreational use, and may not be far behind the recreational use of alcohol in parks.

•

Single-use plastic utensils are easy to use in a park setting; however, some parks are looking for a more sustainable solution: edible utensils. Various companies now have items like edible straws, spoons, and forks that can help make agencies with food services more environmentally friendly.

•

Worker satisfaction is more important now than ever and should be a top goal for organizations’ culture.

Employees who feel a sense of genuine care for their well-being from their employer are more engaged and productive.

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4.4 OPERATIONS The Comprehensive Plan process included an operational assessment. The full report is included in a separate, internal document. This narrative includes a high-level summary of the results of the process. The goals of the process included the following:

Questions for the groups included the following: 1 What do you enjoy about working for Wheeling Park District?

2 How would you describe the organizational culture?

3 Does Wheeling Park District do a good job communicating and living the values?

Review and refine Wheeling Park District vision Confirm Wheeling Park District’s mission and values Identify areas of communication improvements

4 Are you satisfied with communication throughout the Wheeling Park District?

5 Any policies or procedures that need to be changed or improved?

Continue to develop the organizational culture Strengthen teamwork around a common vision The process included meeting with employees from all areas of Wheeling Park District; a review of information such as the organization chart, annual report, personnel manual, a DEI internal assessment conducted by Kaleidoscope; and previous planning efforts. The assessment included details from employee meetings, analysis, and recommendations. This information informed the focus of the analysis.

6 How can silos be reduced?

7 Any ideas about how Wheeling Park District can strengthen recruitment and retention of employees?

8 How would you describe Wheeling Park District’s vision?

HIGHLIGHTS OF RESPONSES FROM A FEW OF THE QUESTIONS INCLUDE: Employees appreciate various aspects of their job and working for Wheeling Park District. Staff appreciate overseeing their areas of responsibility and that every day brings something different. The ability to be creative and the flexibility in their schedule are other aspects they enjoy. Staff members feel supported in making changes and taking risks and appreciate the different opportunities available to them.

Elements of the assessment included: Employee focus group results Major themes of employee focus groups Review of DEI initiative Vision statement refinement Recommendations

EMPLOYEE FOCUS GROUP RESULTS A series of focus groups were conducted involving employees from the three Wheeling Park District departments: Chevy Chase, Administration Services, and Park and Recreation Services. The Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee took part in an additional focus group. Fiftyeight employees participated in the groups. The aim of the discussions revolved around various aspects of the work environment, with the intention of ensuring Wheeling Park District’s effective implementation of the Comprehensive Plan and fostering a clearly defined and motivational organizational culture for its employees.

The availability of necessary resources and support for professional development are other positive aspects. The positive perception of the public, particularly through marketing, is another source of appreciation in working for Wheeling Park District. Collaborating with good people and being part of a solid team are important, as is the diversity of work.

In response to describing Wheeling Park District’s organizational culture, employees were asked about how well the following values are deployed.

There was strong agreement that the values are operationalized throughout the organization, as there was universal awareness of them.

The workplace environment exhibits several key characteristics. Each department has its own distinct identity and functions differently. Collaboration is encouraged, and there is a willingness to listen to others. Wheeling Park District is welcoming and operates at a fast pace. It is community-focused, and staff members genuinely care about the Wheeling community.

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There is a business-oriented and corporate mindset within Wheeling Park District, and there is an attitude of “we can do it” among the employees. There is a high degree of goal orientation and striving to achieve the mission and vision.

Pride in working for Wheeling Park District is evident. Staff are highly skilled forward thinkers. The work environment is fun, well organized, and promotes a sense of community and teamwork. However, there are challenges with siloed communication. Employees tend to remain within their own groups during meetings, resulting in limited interaction with others.

Satisfaction with communication and reduction of barriers included many comments, such as: There is a need for more consistent information sharing.

Employees would like to better understand their colleagues’ responsibilities.

Recognizing and empathizing with the demands faced by other team members is important.

Active participation from all individuals in the room is essential for generating solutions.

While silos may be inevitable in some cases, a continued emphasis on cross-sharing information is important.

There is a recognized need to improve Wheeling Park District’s ability to attract and retain talented employees.

Employees were asked for their ideas about how Wheeling Park District can continue efforts in this area. The ability to recruit and retain staff is a significant industry challenge, in which Wheeling Park District is no different. There is a growing need to dedicate additional labor resources for human resources support.

Wheeling Park District recognizes the importance of creating an effective culture and leadership system to help ensure employees feel satisfied working for Wheeling Park District.

Responses included areas such as prioritizing work-life balance and adding flexibility in their work schedules, providing child care and family discounts on facility use and programs, and researching other organizations’ approaches to creating healthy work environments.

Comments expressed about the vision and future direction of Wheeling Park District included the desire for a clear future vision that aligns with the needs and expectations of the community, board, and leadership. The community is culturally diverse, and there is an ongoing need and challenge to determine what the community wants. There is a need to acknowledge and celebrate accomplishments to foster growth and improvement. Wheeling Park District should focus on trailblazing, looking years ahead and prioritizing the guest experience.

Engaging in nonwork-related activities can foster team cohesion.

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VISION STATEMENT REVIEW A good starting point for the development of recommendations for the Comprehensive Plan is a review of Wheeling Park District’s vision statement. This was achieved in a staff workshop and the development of a staff committee charged with crafting a new statement.

Mission statements define the business or purpose of the organization, while vision statements are more aspirational and focus on what organizations hope to become.

Unchanged mission statement: To provide memorable experiences in parks and recreation that enrich our communities.

Revised vision statement: To uphold our tradition as the provider of choice for parks and recreation in our community.

The values define the important tenets of the way employees work together. The values will be reinforced in hiring and promotional processes, staff orientations, ongoing operations, recognition systems, and the performance appraisal process. The values remain: Respect

Continuous learning

Communication

Fun

Integrity

Empowerment

Innovation

People

Recognition and appreciation

state of organizational culture from a DEI perspective specifically.

• Findings will be used to identify recommended actions to further DEI outcomes for the Wheeling Park District.

• The Wheeling Park District seeks to advance DEI efforts to help ensure it promotes an organizational culture that embraces diversity, makes intentional and equitable decisions, and supports inclusive practices.

Key insights from the Workplace Inclusion Assessment: • Participation in the all-employee Workplace Inclusion Survey was high. The response rate was 95% of full-time staff and 39% of part-time staff.

• A key area of strength for Wheeling Park District is its inclusive culture. This indicates an area of strength for Wheeling Park District, as people feel like they belong, that people work well together, and that their manager shows genuine appreciation for the work they do.

• Another area of strength to leverage is Wheeling Park District managers and leaders. Employees were most satisfied with their managers showing genuine appreciation, managers ensuring respectful team interactions, and having a leader that they can relate to.

• Have a voice was the lowest scoring factor on the survey at 54% favorable. All statements in this factor had lower favorability scores and ranged from 46% to 60% favorable.

• Two-thirds of statements on the survey had neutral scores above 20%. High neutral scores may indicate that the respondent does not have a strong response to the statement, sufficient visibility to answer the question. These statements present prime opportunities to change people’s minds to a more favorable response in the future.

• Consider a formalized DEI committee and give them the space to intentionally and thoughtfully think through and implement solutions to DEI and workplace culture opportunities.

WORKPLACE INCLUSION ASSESSMENT During the development of the Comprehensive Plan, Wheeling Park District undertook an internal assessment of DEI efforts that was conducted by The Kaleidoscope Group.

Data was collected through employee interviews and an all-employee Workplace Inclusion Survey.

The goals of the project encompassed the following: • The Wheeling Park District seeks to conduct a culture assessment to gain an understanding of the current

• Create a baseline set of materials that clearly state the Park District’s viewpoint and goals with DEI and workplace culture. Ensure everyone at all levels is trained formally, as a realignment point, but build the content into how work actually gets done to reinforce on an ongoing basis.

• Create opportunities and safe spaces/forums for staff to learn, openly discuss, and address challenges related to DEI, such as town halls or listening sessions.

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1.0 5.0 Major Introduction Initiatives 80

Wheeling Park District | Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan

5.0 Major Initiatives ethnicity, socioeconomic status—and societal changes.

This requires a proactive and flexible approach, in which Wheeling Park District continuously evaluates and adapts its offerings to meet community needs and expectations.

This helps ensure Wheeling Park District’s services remain vibrant, relevant, and appealing to a diverse range of community groups and individuals.

ENSURE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY Social responsibility refers to Wheeling Park District’s obligation and commitment to serving the community and promoting the well-being of residents through the provision of recreational opportunities and the sustainable management of parks and recreation facilities. Key aspects include:

Accessible and Inclusive Recreation: Helping ensure parks and facilities are accessible to all individuals, regardless of age, ability, socioeconomic status, or background, through DEI efforts. This involves providing barrier-free access to programming and accommodating diverse needs to promote equal participation and social interaction.

Health and Wellness Promotion: Supporting the physical, mental, and social well-being of the community by offering programs and activities that encourage active lifestyles, fitness, and overall wellness.

As part of the visioning process, the staff Steering Committee started to compile the major initiatives that establish the framework for Wheeling Park District’s future vision and strategies. Five major initiatives were created, and the report recommendations will align with these five areas, defined as follows:

Environmental Stewardship: Demonstrating responsible environmental practices by implementing sustainable management strategies for operations, including conserving natural resources, protecting biodiversity, promoting green initiatives, and minimizing the environmental impact of operations.

RESPOND TO CHANGING DEMOGRAPHICS AND TRENDS Wheeling Park District will adapt and adjust programs and services to effectively serve and engage diverse segments of the community and respond to its evolving preferences and interests. This alignment involves recognizing and responding to shifts in demographics—such as age,

Cultural Preservation: Preserving and celebrating the cultural heritage and diversity of the community through the promotion of cultural events, festivals, and programs. This will help ensure recreational offerings reflect and respect the community’s cultural identity.

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5.0 Major Initiatives CONTINUE INNOVATIVE LEADERSHIP Wheeling Park District aspires to be an industry leader in its approach to leadership and service delivery. This involves inspiring and motivating others to challenge the status quo, generate new ideas, and implement creative approaches.

Several characteristics of innovative leadership include having a strategy focus, open-mindedness and flexibility, natural curiosity, continuous learning, and collaborative approaches.

Wheeling Park District also aspires to continue its emphasis on innovative approaches to operations, from facility operations and maintenance to recreation program development and administrative support. This suggests Wheeling Park District will continue emphasizing learning and growth, offering services according to community need, and maintaining the agency’s credibility and recognition throughout the park and recreation industry.

LEVERAGE PARTNERSHIPS Wheeling Park District can leverage partnerships by collaborating with external organizations, stakeholders, and individuals to augment service offerings. This includes identifying organizations for a mutually beneficial relationship, as well as ways to strengthen existing partnerships and strategically identify how the partnership can benefit both Wheeling Park

82

District and the partner. Types of partnerships can include recreation programming and special events, shared facility space, public-private partnerships, resource sharing, volunteer opportunities, environmental and nature-related activities, and shared expertise.

By leveraging partnerships, Wheeling Park District can create opportunities for receiving additional resources, expertise, and community support, enhancing the ability to strengthen and expand service offerings, broaden its reach, and achieve its mission more effectively.

CREATE A PLAN FOR THE COMMUNITY RECREATION CENTER AND FAMILY AQUATIC CENTER CAMPUS A major initiative includes the development of a master plan for the Family Aquatics Center. The facility exceeds 30 years of operations and requires significant updates. This was a frequently mentioned need during the public engagement process and household survey. This will require an understanding of how to best rebuild the center based on community needs as well as trends in outdoor aquatics facility design. This project will include an opportunity for community members to provide their input into a new design.

Wheeling Park District | Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan

1.0 6.0 Introduction Recommendations Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan | Wheeling Park District

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6.0 Recommendations Wheeling Park District PRCP recommendations were formulated with staff input and organized by the five major initiatives that were identified as a result of the planning process.

Each recommendation has been assigned a timeframe: SHORT-TERM: 1–3 years MID-TERM: 4–6 years LONG-TERM: 7–10 years.

1. RESPOND TO CHANGING DEMOGRAPHICS AND TRENDS: •

Develop strategies that promote recreational experiences outside of the centralized “hub.” This could include offering more programs at Chevy Chase, and in neighborhood parks. (SHORT-TERM)

•

Explore new options for the population who are available in the afternoon when there is facility space and available parking at the Community Recreation Center.

(MID-TERM)

•

Create a campaign to target older adult participation as many adults regard the Wheeling Park District services as opportunities for youth and not for adults. (MID-TERM)

•

Review Wheeling Park District’s pricing policy–where possible, consider increasing nonresident fees and reducing resident fees. (MID-TERM)

•

Ensure that programs and facilities are inclusive and welcoming to people of all races, ethnicities, and cultures– continue to offer programs that celebrate diversity and promote cultural awareness. (SHORT-TERM)

•

Develop and approve a DEI Statement and definitions.

(SHORT-TERM)

•

Pursue a creative means to acquire land for areas deficit of neighborhood parks, specifically north of Lake Cook Road. (MID-TERM)

2. ENSURE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY: •

Improve the Wheeling Park District’s scholarship program by increasing ease of use. Target opportunities to make it simpler for the customer to understand the process, provide evidence of need, and to use the service once qualified. (SHORT-TERM)

•

Create a marketing and communications plan with an emphasis on increasing Wheeling Park District’s reach in the community. (SHORT-TERM)

•

Establish a long-term DEI strategy, using the DEI Statement as a guide, with goals and accountabilities that aligns to the strategic plan. (MID-TERM)

•

Continue implementing the July 2023 Board Approved Neighborhood Park Improvement Schedule.

(SHORT-TERM)

•

Continue to review accessibility and inclusive programming. (MID-TERM)

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6.0 Recommendations 3. CONTINUE INNOVATIVE LEADERSHIP:

•

Enhance the existing Information Technology Plan.

(MID-TERM)

•

Conduct an evaluation of staff levels and organizational structure. (SHORT-TERM)

•

•

Dedicate labor resources for a position or part of a position’s responsibility focused on employee engagement from hire to retire. This position should be responsible for creating a recruitment plan, and enhancing every aspect of employment and communication from how a potential employee applies for a position to their interaction with other departments and day-to-day activities.

(SHORT-TERM)

Create a framework for organizational innovation by conducting an organizational assessment that identifies strengths and weaknesses in operationalizing innovation throughout all areas of the Wheeling Park District.

(MID-TERM)

•

Create a learning and development strategy for each tier of the Wheeling Park District (directors, superintendents, managers, and staff) and tailor learning to focus on Wheeling values, culture, and career paths. This can include the development of individual development plans. (MID-TERM)

•

Commit to distributing an employee culture and engagement survey every two to three years to better understand the employee experience, as well as measure progress on DEI and culture initiatives. (MID-TERM)

•

Revisit and promote the Star Awards. (SHORT-TERM)

•

Review the current work-from-home practices, Organizational Culture, and Workforce Development.

(SHORT-TERM)

•

Create an ongoing communication process to reinforce the mission, vision, values of the Wheeling Park District as well as ways to reinforce information about the future direction of the Wheeling Park District. (SHORT-TERM)

•

Develop a set of internal communication guidelines that ensure that all staff receive the same message in a timely and frequent manner regardless of where their position exists. (SHORT-TERM)

•

Pair new employees with an onboarding partner to welcome and support them during their first 6-12 months at the Wheeling Park District. (SHORT-TERM)

•

Ensure that employees can share their thoughts and concerns with leadership by encouraging an opendoor policy, providing ongoing feedback sessions, conducting employee surveys, soliciting employee suggestion program, and hosting active listening sessions.

(SHORT-TERM)

•

Give Wheeling Park District staff a voice by enlisting them to help in creating solutions and action plans that will resonate with employees. (SHORT-TERM)

•

Develop and incorporate Internal Guest Key Points of Measurement. (MID-TERM)

•

Create additional opportunities for team building types of events. (MID-TERM)

•

Conduct quarterly anonymous employee pulse surveys (one or two questions) that allow staff to share feedback and needs. (MID-TERM)

4. LEVERAGE PARTNERSHIPS •

Create opportunities for community members to get involved with the Wheeling Park District and encourage volunteering for Park District governance.

(SHORT-TERM)

•

Partner with other organizations to offer nature/environmental programs, as indicated as a need in the results of the aQity survey. (MID-TERM)

•

Strategically identify and create new relationships with partners and sponsors throughout the community.

(MID-TERM)

•

Create bikeway connectivity throughout the Wheeling Park District to allow movement from one park to another. A strong trail network will need involvement from the Village of Wheeling and possibly Lake and Cook Counties. (LONG-TERM)

5. CREATE A PLAN FOR THE COMMUNITY RECREATION CENTER AND FAMILY AQUATIC CENTER CAMPUS •

Create a plan for the Family Aquatic Center.

(SHORT-TERM)

•

Reconfigure parking and traffic flow to more effectively serve the Community Recreation Center and the Family Aquatic Center. (MID-TERM)

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Appendix A Community Survey Results

86 Wheeling Park District | Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan

Appendix A

COMMUNITY SURVEY FOR THE WHEELING PARK DISTRICT APRIL 2023 aQit y R esearch & I n sigh t s Evanston, IL

Table of Contents

SECTION

PAGE

Methods

3

Sample Description

4

Executive Summary

6

Detailed Findings: I. Overall Opinions of the WPD

18

II. WPD Park/Facility Usage and Satisfaction

37

III. Needs Assessment: Indoor Facilities

49

IV. Needs Assessment: Outdoor Facilities

56

V. Recent Program/Event Participation and Satisfaction

62

VI. Needs Assessment: Programs and Events

67

VII. WPD Ranking Among Sources for Parks/Recreation/Fitness Programs

74

VIII. WPD Information Sources

81

APPENDIX

87

Survey Topline Results (questionnaire with overall frequency of responses)

88

Sample postcard invitation for survey recruitment

95 2

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Appendix A

Survey Methods

Data Collection and Sample Composition/Weighting



These findings are based on a sample of n=400 households within the Wheeling Park District (WPD).



Data collection began on December 21, 2022 (pretest), and then resumed after the holidays from January 7 through March 8, 2023.



A random sample of WPD households was sent invitations by mail to participate in the survey. The online survey was available in both English and Spanish. To improve the response rate, additional invitations for the online survey were sent by mail and email in February, and n=180 Spanish-language questionnaires (for mail responses) were distributed in early February to key Hispanic/Latino contacts in the community to help distribution to Spanish-speaking residents.



Respondents receiving the survey invitations were given three options to respond:  n=336 completed the survey online (including those who received postcard invitations and email/postcard reminders)  n=64 completed a printed survey (including n=2 who completed a Spanish-language version)  No one opted for a phone survey/interview.



The random sample of n=400 was weighted to match US Census data for Wheeling by region, age, gender, homeowner vs. renter status, race and ethnicity, and percentage of households with children. Assuming no sample bias, the margin of error is +/- 4.9% (at the 95% confidence level)*.



Throughout the report, statistically meaningful differences (at the 95% confidence level) are identified. If responses from a demographic group are not reported, this means that the response from that segment was generally in line with the overall result.



Results from the 2015 WPD survey (with a smaller sample of n=306, vs. n=400 in the current survey) are trended when possible in the report. * In addition to sampling error, question wording, respondent error, and practical difficulties in conducting surveys may introduce error or bias in any opinion poll.

3

Sample Description

Respondent Demographics

Gender* Male

45%

Female

52%

Prefer to self-describe

3%

Length of Residence in Wheeling Park District Less than 5 years

20%

5-9 years

16%

10-19 years

20%

20-34 years

26%

35+ yrs.

Age* Under 35

20%

35-44

18%

45-54

15%

55-64

19%

65+

28%

Mean (average)

Mean (average)

Race*

51.8 years old

Children in Household*

White only

66%

Asian only

14%

Other/Multiracial

20%

Ethnicity*

Yes

29%

Hispanic/Latino

28%

No

71%

Not Hispanic/Latino

72%

*Weighted to 2020 Census data.

88

18%

18.8 years

Wheeling Park District | Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan

4

Appendix A

Sample Description

Northwest (26%) East (39%)

Central (21%)

South (14%)

5

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Appendix A

Executive Summary: Key Findings

6

Executive Summary

Overall Opinions of Wheeling Park District (WPD): Esteem, Strengths, Weaknesses, Value

Esteem for the WPD has Improved Since 2015 and Now Rivals Ratings for Nearby Districts

Residents Identify Multiple Strengths That They Like Best About the District

90



The District’s average esteem rating (measuring overall opinion on a 0-10 scale) has improved from 7.4 in 2015, to 8.0 in 2023. 

<pg. 19>

Currently, 88% have a favorable opinion of the District (up from 81% eight years ago), and the percent who are dissatisfied has been cut in half (5%, down from 10%).



While the WPD’s esteem lagged other agency benchmarks in the previous survey, it is now in line with nearby park districts, and significantly outperforms the statewide average.

<pg. 21>



No subgroup has a negative opinion of the district. Its lowest scores come from non-park/facility users (averaging 6.0 – still somewhat favorable). Its highest ratings come from ages 35 to 44, and 65+.

<pg. 20>



When asked to identify WPD’s strengths, about half (54%) cite District facilities (most often the fitness center, well-maintained facilities overall, the Aquatic Center, good range of facilities, and the indoor track).

<pp. 2225>



Just over a third (38%) most appreciate the programs and events. The community events (concerts, holidays, etc.) are cited most often, followed closely by the wide range of quality programming overall. Others call out youth programs, activities for all age groups, summer camps, and early childhood offerings.



One in four (23%) identify the parks and trails as WPD strengths (usually Heritage Park, well maintained parks and trails, accessible locations, etc.).



Admin-related comments account for 10% overall (friendly staff, reasonable fees and many free events).

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7

Appendix A

Executive Summary

Overall Opinions of Wheeling Park District (WPD): Esteem, Strengths, Weaknesses, Value (cont’d)

Dislikes/Improvement Opportunities Mostly Focus on Facility Management – Especially Parking



Overall, residents had a more difficult time identifying anything they dislike about the District (20% gave no answers). In addition, even those who offered a response often say that there is “nothing I dislike” (14%).



The rest are divided, with about one in five citing each of the following as dislikes or improvements they’d like to see:

<pp. 2629>

 Programs and events – more community-wide events, better program scheduling (22% – e.g., more during evenings and weekends for working adults), added programs for both adults and for youth sports  Building and facility improvements (20% – e.g., pool issues such as water temperature, crowded at peak times, updates needed to the fitness center, and lower membership fees).  Better/improved parking and accessibility (18% – e.g., traffic flow, more/closer spots) – usually focused on the CRC/Aquatic Park/Heritage Park fields/ Performance Pavilion (especially during the summer) 

Another 14% mention other admin or management-related issues (e.g., nicer and more polite service from staff, more and better communication about WPD offerings, etc.).

8

Executive Summary

Overall Opinions of Wheeling Park District (WPD): Esteem, Strengths, Weaknesses, Value (cont’d)

WPD Represents Greater Value Now Than in 2015

Resident Loyalty/NPS is Also on the Rise, and the District’s DEI Efforts Are Recognized



Similar to its overall esteem ratings, the District’s value scores (0-10 ratings based on the percent of property taxes going to the WPD) are significantly higher.



In 2015, half (50%) rated the WPD a good-to-excellent value. Currently, 76% feel this way (including 34% who say it now represents and excellent value).



Only non-users of WPD parks and facilities feel the District is an “average” value.

All other groups rate it a good (or better) value – especially women, the oldest residents (ages 65+), and recent WPD users and participants.

<pg. 31>



Its current value ratings are also now solidly in line with those for nearby districts, and significantly better than the statewide average.

<pg. 32>



Similarly, its overall NPS* is +41, significantly better than 2015 scores (when it received a +24 for programs/events and +14 for parks/facilities). Among recent self-reported program/event participants, it is a +53.

<pg. 33>



The vast majority of residents (90%) feel that their household is adequately represented and included by the Park District. Only 10% disagree, most often citing too much emphasis on programs and activities for children and young families (not enough for empty nesters and seniors).

<pp. 3437>

 This is also the top reason for non-usage of WPD facilities and parks – a clear opportunity for the District to improve outreach and engagement with these older segments who feel underserved.

<pg. 48>

<pg. 30>

 Others feel excluded due to WPD fees being too high/unaffordable for those on tight incomes. Very few (n=5) feel excluded due to race, culture, language, or gender. * Net Promoter Score (NPS) = % Promoters (9s and 10s on 0-10 likely to recommend scale) - % Detractors (0s through 6s on that scale).

9

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Appendix A

Executive Summary

WPD Park and Facility Usage, Satisfaction

Virtually All Have Used/ Visited a District Location In the Past Year, and Are Very Satisfied



Overall, 87% report that someone in their household has been to a WPD park or facility in the past 12 months, most often:

<pg. 38>

 Heritage Park (63% of all respondents), especially the park itself (51%) and the Performance Pavilion (40%).  The Community Rec Center/CRC (53%), usually: - The fitness facility - Indoor walking track - Indoor pool (though self-reported pool usage is down vs. 2015 levels) - Gymnasium - Guest services (with a few citing poor service from guest staffing)  The Aquatic Center (36% -- up from 2015 usage levels)

<pg. 46>

<pg. 46>

 Chevy Chase Country Club (22%)  Horizon, Chamber, and Childerley Parks (between 13% and 17% each). All other parks are mentioned by fewer than 10% of respondents. 

Satisfaction with WPD parks and facilities is very positive, with big improvements <pg. 41> from 2015. The highest ratings are for the cleanliness and upkeep of both parks and facilities, and the biggest improvement in satisfaction is for public safety at these locations.



The relatively few who are dissatisfied or neutral toward WPD parks and facilities cite <pg. 43> a range of issues, most often echoing parking concerns at the more centralized locations/facilities (lack of parking, no lighting at night, configuration and flow, etc.).  Beyond that issue, a few seek more amenities at various locations in general (e.g., lighting, benches, trash cans, etc.).

10

Executive Summary

Needs Assessment: Indoor Facilities

Demand for Most Indoor Facilities is Currently Being Met, With Few Exceptions



Among indoor facilities tested, residents express the greatest interest and demand in <pp. 5053> a(n):  Fitness center (47% interested — demand already being met/readily available)  Sauna/steam room (34% — represents a “gap”/unmet need currently)  Indoor lap swimming (32% — already met)  Warm water therapy pool (27% — another “gap”/opportunity)  Gym courts (24%) and indoor pickleball courts (20% — both of which are currently available/being met)  Indoor synthetic turf fields (lowest interest at 10% — not readily available locally).



One in four residents also report that none of these indoor amenities are of interest to them (mostly non-WPD visitors or participants recently).



When asked to identify the top indoor priority for the WPD to add, provide or improve, the top is “none of these/no answer” (35%). These residents feel that their needs for these indoor facilities are for the most already being met.



Among the remaining options tested, the top priorities are an indoor fitness (cited by 17%), followed by two “gap” amenities – a sauna or steam room (#1 priority to 13%), and a warm water therapy pool (10%).

<pp. 5455>

11

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Appendix A

Executive Summary

Needs Assessment: Outdoor Facilities

Trails Continue to Be the Top Outdoor Amenity/Activity



In terms of outdoor facilities, three out of four adults (74%) express a need or interest in walking/biking trails. This response is consistent across all regions and demographic groups in the community.



A nature center ranks second in terms of overall interest (cited by 40%) and represents an unmet need or opportunity for the WPD to consider. Interest in this facility is fairly even (again, few significant differences).



Playgrounds (high demand) and cricket pitches (low demand) are deemed in good supply and availability currently.



One in four residents are interested in off-leash dog parks (especially ages 45-54 and households without children). This also represents a key unmet need/opportunity (along with a nature center).

<pg. 57>

 In fact, a dog park ranks second at 12% (after trails at 33%, and just ahead of playgrounds and a nature center) when residents are asked to identify the one outdoor facility that should be the top priority for the WPD. 

One in four adults (24% overall) feel that none of the outdoor amenities tested represent a priority. Men were most likely to feel this way, along with non-WPD users/participants.

<pg. 60>

12

Executive Summary

Program and Events Participation and Satisfaction

Respondents Report Participating in Multiple WPD Programs in the Past Year (both for youth and adults), and Especially in Community Events



Overall, 37% report attending one of the WPD’s outdoor concerts in the past year, and 22% also went to one of the District’s community and/or holiday events.

<pg. 63>

 Nearly as many (15%) went to an outdoor Movie in the Park, and 14% attended an Unplug at the Park event. 

In terms of recreational programs, youth activities are mostly centered around swimming lessons, summer camp, and sports and/or sports clinics and lessons. Five percent report using the preschool/early childhood program.



Adult program participants tend to report fitness programs and personal training, swimming and aquatic activities, and programs for active older adults. Four percent mentioned pickleball lessons/leagues.



In general, satisfaction with WPD programs and events remains very strong, averaging an 8.5 rating (very satisfied) on a 0 through 10 scale. This is consistent/ slightly higher than the 8.2 received in 2015.

<pp. 6465>

 All self-reported participants are at least very satisfied; no demographic group gives an average rating below a 7.7.  Any dissatisfaction with programs often references issues with WPD facilities (e.g., issues using the lap lanes).  The adult programs (e.g., sports lessons, fitness, swimming, arts and crafts) and community events (outdoor movies, Unplug in the Park) tend to receive the highest satisfaction scores.

<pg. 66>

 Youth activities tend to receive lower (but still favorable) ratings, especially dance, before/after school, swimming, arts and crafts.

13

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Appendix A

Executive Summary

Needs Assessment: Programs and Events

Residents Are Most Interested in Larger Events (concerts, weekend family events), Along With Activities for Older Adults



Most (53%) express a need or interest in outdoor summer concerts and movies, and about a third are likewise interested in weekend festivals and family events (36%), along with:

<pp. 6870>

 Activities for active older adults (33%, especially from homeowners and old/longterm Wheeling residents  Learning activities for all ages (31%, especially women and households with children). 

Nutrition and weight loss classes are of interest to 22% overall, followed by STEM and science programs (17%).



Of these, residents feel that their need for summer concerts/movies, weekend events, youth fitness, and swimming lessons/programs are currently being met.

The biggest programming gaps/opportunities appear to be:

<pg. 71>

 Activities for active older adults  Learning activities for all ages  Nutrition and weight loss education  STEM and science programs. 

The #1 program/event priority for the WPD to address is “none/satisfied as is” (28%), followed by outdoor concerts and weekend festivals (both of which are currently offered), and activities for active older adults (an opportunity to fill an unmet need).

<pp. 7273>

14

Executive Summary

Top Sources for Adult and Youth Activities/Recreation/Fitness

WPD is Clearly the #1 Provider for Adult Recreation and Fitness, But Competes with Local Schools for Youth Activities



The Wheeling Park District is easily the top provider for adult recreation, with the Indian Trails Library and local forest preserves a distant second and third.

<pg. 75>

 All other local providers (private health clubs, homeowner’s associations, private instruction, etc.) rank far lower as recreational providers for adults. 

For youth activities, the landscape is very different (and more competitive).

<pg. 78>

 Most residents cite their local private or public school as the #1 source for youth activities.  The WPD is a close second, and usually the #2 or #3 provider.  Similarly, Indian Trails Library rounds out the top three for youth activities and programs. About a third also mention nearby youth sports programs/leagues.  A few “other” providers are specifically cited, most often nearby park districts (e.g., Buffalo Grove, Arlington Heights), and private health clubs (e.g., LA Fitness, NCH Wellness Center).

<pg. 80>

15

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Appendix A

Executive Summary

Sources of WPD Information

Residents Rely Heavily on the WPD Website for Park District Information



Three out of four respondents (75%) report going to the District website when seeking information about WPD facilities, events, programs, etc. This is more than double the 2015 response (35%).



The District’s e-newsletter ranks second among WPD information sources (40%).



The remaining sources are each mentioned by about one out of five respondents:

<pg. 82>

 Word of mouth from family, friends and neighbors (22% overall, including 31% of Hispanic/Latino residents)  Social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter and Instagram (19%)  Signage near and inside WPD facilities (19%)  Calling the main office or a District facility (18%). 

Similarly, when asked which is their preferred source of information, a majority rely most on:

<pg. 84>

 The WPD website (54%, and the #1 choice among all subgroups)  The e-newsletter (22%, especially among women)  Social media (7%)  Signage (6%, especially among those without children under 18, and non-WPD users).

16

Executive Summary

Key Findings: Hispanic/Latino Residents

Given the Size of the Hispanic/Latino Population in Wheeling, Several Insights are Specific to this Segment



Overall, about 28% of the Wheeling population identifies as being of Hispanic, Latino <pg. 4> or Spanish ethnicity (based on Census data, and survey findings weighted to reflect that target).  Despite offering a Spanish-language version of the survey, the response rate from these households was relatively low, similar to the 2015 survey.  The weighted results throughout the report are based on the responses from n=56 respondents who identify as Hispanic/Latino.



Key differences/insights among Hispanic/Latino respondents show that they are:  More satisfied with the number/variety of WPD parks (8.8 avg. rating, vs. 8.4 overall) and facilities (8.7, vs. 8.3 overall)

<pg. 42>

 More likely to report using the preschool program (22%, vs. 8% overall)

<pg. 47>

 More interested in indoor synthetic turf fields (18%, vs. 10% overall)

<pg. 51>

 More interested in weekend family fests/events (51%, vs. 36% overall), and STEM/science programs (26%, vs. 17% overall)

<pg. 69>

 More likely to cite the WPD as a top-3 source of adult recreation/fitness/activities (92%, vs. 83% overall)

<pg. 76>

 More likely to get WPD information from word of mouth (31%, vs. 22% overall).

<pg. 83>

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Appendix A

I.

Overall Opinions of the Wheeling Park District

18

Overall Esteem for WPD

Nearly nine out of then residents (88%) have positive overall opinions about the Wheeling Park District (vs. only 5% who are unfavorable toward the District. The remaining 7% are neutral (most likely less familiar with the WPD).  Its average rating on a 0-10 scale is a very favorable 8.0 and represents a big improvement since 2015 (when the average score was 7.4). In fact, nearly half (45%) now give the District the highest scores possible (9s and 10s), vs. 36% eight years ago.  As reported on the following page, all subgroups within the District offer positive opinions. The lowest ratings (6.0 on average) come from non-WPD park and facility users, who remain somewhat favorable overall.  Overall, 5% are not familiar enough with the District to offer a rating. Again, these residents tend to be non-park or facility visitors (24% of whom are unfamiliar) and newer residents who moved here in the past four years (10% unfamiliar).

Overall Esteem for Wheeling Park District (0-10 scale)

2023

5% 7%

2015

10%

Unfavorable (0-4)

16%

9%

Neutral (5)

27%

25%

45%

20%

36%

Somewhat Favorable (6-7)

Very Favorable (8)

Avg. 0-10 Rating

Ratio of Favorable : Unfavorable Scores

8.0

17.6 : 1

7.4

8.1 : 1

Extremely Favorable (9-10)

Q4. Please rate your overall opinion of the Wheeling Park District on a scale from 0 (completely dislike) through 10 (hold it in the highest regard), with 5 a neutral score. If you are unfamiliar with the District, please select “Unfamiliar”.

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19

Appendix A

Overall Esteem for WPD

Those most favorable toward the District are recent WPD users/visitors/participants, and both the 35-44 and 65+ age groups.  In addition to non-users/visitors/participants, lower than average ratings (still very positive) tend to come from ages 55-64, and residents who plan to move out of Wheeling within the coming year.

Lower than Avg. Ratings

Higher than Avg. Ratings

- Ages 55-64 (7.2) - Non-WPD park/facility users (6.0) - Non-WPD program/event participants (7.6) - Plan to live in Wheeling <1 year (7.4)

Overall esteem rating (avg. rating = 8.0)

- Ages 35-44 (8.5), 65+ (8.3) - Visited a WPD park/facility (8.2) or participated in a program/event (8.1) in past year - Plan to live in Wheeling 6+ years (8.2)

20

Overall Esteem for WPD

The Wheeling Park District’s overall esteem ratings are generally in line with neighboring agencies, and well above the statewide average.

Benchmark Comparisons: Overall Esteem Ratings Avg. (mean) Rating:

88% Favorable

8.0

7.8

45%

40%

86%

26%

91%

36%

93%

53%

7.7

86%

38%

31%

24%

28%

25% 25%

16%

15%

20%

7% 5%

8% 6%

12%

Wheeling PD 2023

Arlington Hts. PD 2023

Statewide Benchmark 2022

32%

20% 15%

8% 1% Nearby PD Benchmark* 2022

4% 3% Glenview PD 2022

Extremely favorable (9-10) Very favorable (8)

17% 68%

27%

8.3

7.9

6.8

Somewhat favorable (6-7) Neutral (5) Unfavorable (0-4)

8% 6% Mt. Prospect PD 2019

Q4. Please rate your overall opinion of the Wheeling Park District. (0=completely dislike, 5=neutral, 10=highest regard).

* 2022 benchmark comparisons with neighboring agencies include Buffalo Grove, Deerfield, Northbrook, Glenview, Mt. Prospect, Prospect Heights, and Arlington Heights.

21

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Appendix A

WPD Strengths

When asked to identify strengths about the Park District (in an open-ended format), respondents give a wide range of options, most often citing facilities (especially the CRC fitness center, Aquatic Center, and their level of maintenance) and its community events.  The programming and activities offered by the WPD in general also rank relatively high (12%), with more specific examples cited less often (options for all ages, and youth activities like summer camps and early childhood programs).  Specific parks and outdoor amenities are mentioned with “mid-range” frequency (e.g., Heritage park, local trails), along with staff and administrative strengths (helpful service, reasonable fees and/or many free options).  Sample verbatims for these grouped comments (parks/trails/outdoor amenities, vs. facilities/buildings, vs. programs, etc.) are provided on the following pages, along with the overall percent referencing each (multiple responses).

WPD Strengths (multiple open-ended responses) 18%

Fitness center

18%

Community events/concerts

14%

Well-maintained facilities

12%

Good programs, general

10%

Aquatic Center

9%

Heritage Park

8%

Good facilities, general Exercise/fitness programs

7%

Well-maintained parks/trails

7% 7%

Friendly staff Indoor track Reasonable fees Indoor pool

5% 5% 4%

Good youth programs, general

4%

Many free events/programs

3%

Programs for all ages

3%

Summer camp

3%

Early childhood

3%

Trails

3%

Nearby parks/facilities

3%

Accessible parks/facilities

3%

Nothing I like/Neg.comments

3%

Parks/Trails/Playgrounds Facilities/Buildings Programs/events Admin/Management Cost/Fees

22

Q2. What do you like most about the Wheeling Park District, or what are its biggest strengths?

WPD Strengths

Sample Responses: Park District’s Best Strengths Facilities/Buildings NET (54%) "The new fitness center was especially well done."

“Indoor track -- nice locker rooms -- beautiful building."

"The rec center is nice. Nice upgrade that was done a few years back. I like the extra pickleball days and hours. It is that fastest growing sport in America."

"Great job on the Fitness Center. Also love the pickleball activity. " "Fitness center has up-to-date machines and is set up well."

"The walking track is available to everyone."

"Well-maintained, natural light and more spacious."

"The Aquatic Center - affordable and great place to take your family, indoor or outdoor. Chevy Chase - great golf course and affordable."

"Family Aquatic Center; Heritage Park Pavilion concerts."

“After years of opening on time issues with the indoor pool, finally this is fixed."

"Well maintained facilities."

"I love the newly updated facility with an extra gym and beautiful fitness center."

"Water park. Winter pool. Gym.” "Facilities are nice. Gym, waterpark and other areas are nicely remodeled."

Programs/Events NET (38%) "Events to bring our community together with a wide variety of ways to participate for everyone. Something for everybody."

"Considering the fairly small size of the community, the District provides lots of activities and does them well."

"The outdoor concerts at Heritage Park.”

"Excellent outdoor programming like International Fest, National Night Out." "I love the programs for youths and have enrolled my now 11-year-old in many programs now and in the past."

"I enjoy all of the events that are scheduled throughout the year. They offer something for everyone.”

"Good amount of social events, great preschool program."

"The preschool prep class with Ms. A is amazing. My daughter loves it, and I can tell she prepares well, and actually teaches the 2-year-olds through play."

"Camps were great for my son when he was young. I coached soccer and coed basketball and we both loved it. He also played baseball which was fun too. Love the group exercise classes and glad to see expanded options this year. The events are great for all ages. I especially love anything with music."

"I like the events that they put for the kids. Also, like the different events that they have during the summer…the movie nights or the bands that they bring to play."

23

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Appendix A

WPD Strengths

Sample Responses: Park District’s Best Strengths (cont’d) Parks/Trails/Playgrounds NET (23%) "We really like Heritage Park. The facilities and grounds are very well thought out. The park is very versatile. Location is fantastic as it is close to food and municipalities."

"The lake and it's walking sidewalks."

"We live in the subdivision behind Heritage Park. We moved there specifically for the park and the large tree lined streets in the neighborhood! Heritage always looks beautiful and well taken care of. Heritage is my favorite park in Wheeling because we can walk there! We love the CRC and the summertime outdoor facilities & events. The park maintenance staff do an awesome job!!"

“Numerous walking parks -- open spaces.“ "Maintenance on nearby Childerly Park is always well done."

"The Park District has an array of parks and activities for all ages."

"Parks are clean and kept up."

"Bike trails, playgrounds."

"I live near Husky. It is a nice park."

"Local park being available are nice. Walking areas are appreciated. They have diverse facilities that many people can find something they like."

Admin/Management NET (10%) "The personnel you have are polite and very helpful, went for an orientation and I was the only one, the boss who I now forget her name still took the time to show me around. " “The front desk workers are nice."

"Friendly and welcoming and worth every penny!"

"Updating (the) schedule (is) timely."

"Well operated. Larger variety of programs. Accepts Silver Sneakers and Renew Active."

"I haven't used it a lot, but it appears well run and has been developed well over time."

“Nice communications and excellent facilities."

24

WPD Strengths

Sample Responses: Park District’s Best Strengths (cont’d) Location/Accessibility NET (8%) “Centrally located.”

“It's a close-by gym I can walk to, and it has lots of weights and machines we can use.”

“Ample space, well-maintained, good amenities.”

“I like that it's close by, and I like the gym.”

Cost/Fees NET (7%) “Free concerts in the park are great.”

“Reasonably priced programs.”

“Great value! Clean facility even prior to renovation.”

“Love the free opportunities for kids!“ “The enrollment was free in 2023 and it was very helpful to me. Thank you.”

“Offer gym to seniors through supplemental insurance.”

25

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Appendix A

WPD Weaknesses/Improvements Sought

In a separate open-ended, 20% of all respondents did not offer comments regarding any negatives or needed improvements for the WPD. Among those who gave responses (n=326), the top answer was “I dislike nothing/cannot think of anything” (14%).

WPD Weaknesses/Improvement Opportunities (multiple open-ended responses)

 The top improvements center largely around improved parking (more spaces, better configuration, more lighting, etc.), mostly focusing on the CRC/Aquatic Center/Horizon Sports Complex/Performance Pavilion area.

10%

Lower fees/costs

 One in ten seek lower program and membership fees.

Other CRC issues (e.g., crowded, locker rooms)

 The remaining responses are scattered evenly across various facility, park/trail, staff, and programming suggestions.

6%

More community events

5%

Limited program scheduling

4%

Other pool issues (e.g., cold)

4%

Pools too crowded

4%

Traffic/construction issues

4%

Nicer/more polite staff

4%

Better/more communication

4%

Improved outdoor fields/courts

4%

Better trails, paths

4%

More programs for adults

3%

Programs/Events

Update the fitness center

3%

Admin/Management/Parking

More/better youth sports

3%

More/better youth programs, gen.

3%

 Beyond the parking situation and requests for lower costs, there is little consensus on remaining suggestions.  Examples of these open-ended comments are provided on the following pages (grouped by netted response categories).

13%

Not enough parking

None/Can't think of any

Parks/Trails/Playgrounds Facilities/Buildings

Cost/Fees

14%

Q3. What do you dislike most about the Wheeling Park District, or what do you think it could do better?

26

WPD Weaknesses/Improvements Sought

Sample Responses: Park District’s Weaknesses Programs/Events NET (22%) "Grouped classes could be a bit better coordinated for attendees who may like to take two in a row. E.g.: pump then yoga or Zumba then yoga."

“Improve the selection of park district programs currently available. ex: self improvement classes for kids, parents, seniors."

"I think it could offer more programming for adults."

"Everything seems to be slanted to younger participants."

"Could offer more senior trips -- activities for seniors.”

"Offer more low-cost trips to the seniors of Wheeling."

"That there aren't more senior fit classes especially on Saturdays for the still working seniors."

"More things for younger people and teens."

"I think the youth programs could be improved; especially the summer camps. The groups are essentially run by teenagers with no experience in social/emotional development or first aid."

"Not enough food selection at some outdoor events, such as the summer concerts."

"I would like to see more toddler programs. Like art, music. Also at later morning times like 10-11am. I noticed there are 9am Saturday morning classes. That doesn't work for everybody."

"Some of the community events are too over-crowded. Logistics not well-planned out when mass people show up.“

Buildings/Facilities NET (20%) "Lately, I've noticed the equipment in the Fitness Center needs cleaning. The machines are very dusty and grimy. Some equipment even has spills of something in it."

"Install new flooring on walking track. Seems spotted in places. Dated colors."

"How about an adult outdoor 'playground’ – like an outdoor gym of sorts for adults. Let's get the community moving and exercising more."

"You need to rebuild the outdoor basketball courts you said you would replace when you redid Heritage Park. You have plenty of space right in the front. The kids need it. " "There are no tennis courts, not a single one. Also, there are no outdoor ice-skating rinks."

"No indoor playing for kids."

“My biggest problem is the showers and water fountains have no pressure. Your pools can shoot out water pretty good.“ “The women’s lockers are a joke. Strange shape, top lockers are unusable in the regular locker room and the bottoms are not easy to use in the fitness center. In the old locker room, many of the lockers have sharp points (hinges, edges), don't fit well (doors get stuck on the locker above) and it is really crowded."

27

100 Wheeling Park District | Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan

Appendix A

WPD Weaknesses/Improvements Sought

Sample Responses: Park District’s Weaknesses (cont’d) Parking/Accessibility/Location NET (18%) "Parking for seniors close to the doors is impossible...not enough of handicap parking...this is much worse during summer season."

“Not enough parking at Heritage Park in the summer during concerts/events."

"There are no places where someone with an inability to walk can visually enjoy the lake from their car."

"Parking. This is my biggest gripe and something important enough that I may have to cancel my health/fitness membership because I am tired of driving around in circles to find parking on a Saturday afternoon or weekday evenings..."

"The parking is getting horrible as the Park District grows due to growth in the community. I have been nearly hit while walking on multiple occasions. At night the parking lot is too dark. People drive way too fast and go the wrong way down the one-way lanes. When you go to the Park District at peak times you have to circle to find convenient parking. If you can't find parking the solution is to park by Village Hall, but that parking (which is also near the restaurants) is not convenient to any of the main entrances. People double park all the time, even though signs say not to, but no one enforces it. " "PARKING! Especially after dark, and in the winter. The walks and lots are super slippery. We need a door closer to the back lot. I do not have a handicap permit but have a hip replacement and will be having knee surgery in the near future.“ “The lighting in the parking lot is bad! When I get out of a class at night in winter it is so dark the only saving grace is during the holidays with lights on the trees."

“Parking when the pool is open is brutal."

"The parking situation can be very tight to non-existent when there are lots of activities going on. The north side Village Hall building across the street does not need all that handicap parking, especially when the building is closed in the evening. People could be parking there from the fitness facility or activities from Gym #2.“

Admin/Management NET (14%) "Communication. I don't know what is available and when."

"The services that are offered are under-promoted. I’m unsure of what's offered near me, and I've lived in the area for 10 consecutive years."

"Upper management is slow to respond to requests and not open-minded on many suggestions."

"Employees by the front (are) NOT very friendly."

"Online registration and information about event and availability need to be more clear (kids/not kid-friendly, age, etc.)."

"There should be lifeguards monitoring the swimmers AT ALL TIMES." "Better program leaders with more enthusiasm for what they are doing. The Little Kickers 1 leader did not have much enthusiasm in working with kids."

28

WPD Weaknesses/Improvements Sought

Sample Responses: Park District’s Weaknesses (cont’d) Parks/Playgrounds/Trails NET (12%) "You need more trash cans at the park."

"Dog (feces). People usually pick up at Library; those using Husky don't."

"Separate bike paths and walking paths. I have almost been hit from behind several times while walking at Heritage."

"Part of the walking path gets quite dark / feels isolated at night behind the pond closer to the train tracks."

"More restrooms in parks."

"The fields are not open to the kids. Many times, kids get kicked off because they did not rent the field and/or it’s going to be used by another group. The soccer goals have been removed from most parks and/or the nets have been removed. If the goals are out, they are tied up in a way in that they can't be used until someone from Park District unties them. This makes it seem like the Park District only cares about making money."

"They could add more colorful perennials in the parks to brighten it up all year long. Offer gardening clubs for kids, families and seniors. Add a few more benches or seats in park for seniors so they can walk and sit."

"There are no courts to play basketball or FREE fields to play soccer. My son got kicked out of a field because it’s a rented field but was not being used at the time."

"We need a dog park!"

"The outdoor walking areas are rustic and not well lit."

Cost Fees NET (10%)

"Rec/fitness center is pricey."

"Residents should get a little more discounts to use some of these facilities, especially for the amount of property taxes we pay."

"There should be much lower fees for seniors for the health club, pool & track."

"For boys’ basketball the park (district) is charging an extra $20 for the jersey on top of the program fee."

"Think about to using the fitness equipment for the low-income seniors."

"Fees have increased, low-income families struggling cannot afford to attend all the lovely events they would like to."

Positives/Nothing I Dislike NET (14%) “I have no negative input. (They) handled the pandemic well (and) hire the best. Truly 5 star!”

“For me, and the years that I have enjoyed the park, I don't have any areas that I would say I dislike most.”

“Nothing I dislike. The parks are great.”

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Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan | Wheeling Park District 101

Appendix A

Overall WPD Value

Along with overall esteem ratings, the “value” scores given to the Wheeling Park District have also improved significantly since 2015.  Three out of four residents (76%) feel that the District’s 7% share of property taxes represents at least a good value given the parks, facilities, programs and services that if offers. This includes 34% who rate it an “excellent” value (scores of 9+ on a 0-10 scale).  Only 8% rate it a “poor” value, less than half of the 20% who felt that way eight years ago.  All groups give favorable value ratings, except for non-park/facility users (5.5 average rating, considered an “average” value – see next page).

Overall Perceived Value: Wheeling Park District (0-10 scale) Avg. 0-10 Rating 2023

8%

2015

16%

22%

20%

Poor value (0-4)

20%

30%

Average (5)

16%

Good value (6-7)

7.3

34%

15%

19%

Very good (8)

6.1

Excellent value (9-10)

Q26. Approximately 7% of your property taxes goes to the Wheeling Park District. Please rate the overall value that the Park District represents given its share of 7% of your property taxes.

30

Overall WPD Value

In addition to non-WPD users/visitors/participants, men and residents between 55 and 64 years old tend to give slightly lower than average value scores.  The oldest adults, women, and recent users/participants give the strongest value ratings.

Overall value rating (avg. rating = 7.3)

-

Lower than Avg. Ratings

Higher than Avg. Ratings

Men (6.7) Ages 55-64 (6.5) Non-WPD park/facility users (5.5) Non-WPD program/event participants (6.6) Plan to live in Wheeling 2-3 more years (6.9)

- Women (7.7) - Ages 65+ (7.8) - Visited a WPD park/facility (7.5) or participated in a program/event (7.6) in past year - Plan to live in Wheeling 6+ years (7.5)

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102 Wheeling Park District | Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan

Appendix A

Overall WPD Value

Compared to nearby park agencies, the Wheeling Park District’s value rating is very comparable, and much stronger than the overall statewide benchmark.

Benchmark Comparisons: Perceived Value Relative to Property Tax Share Q26. Approximately 7% of your property taxes goes to the Wheeling Park District. Please rate the overall value that the Park District represents given its share of 7% of your property taxes.

Avg. (mean) Rating:

76% Positive Value

7.3

7.4

34%

5.9

39%

76%

21%

22%

16%

16%

15%

8%

9%

Wheeling Park Dist. 2023

Arlington Hts. PD 2023

75%

15% 53%

20%

7.5

7.1

18%

28% 18%

20%

81%

29%

23%

42%

19% 20%

24% Statewide Benchmark 2022

7.0

67%

33%

7.0 30%

Excellent (9-10)

71%

18%

21%

16%

20%

21%

18%

Great Value (8) Good Value (6-7) Neutral (5) Poor Value (0-4)

18%

9%

7%

10%

12%

11%

Nearby PD Benchmark* 2022

Glenview PD 2022

Buffalo Grove PD 2019

Mt. Prospect PD 2019

* 2022 IAPD statewide survey tested a 5% share to park districts as the statewide average. Benchmark comparisons with communities close to Wheeling include Buffalo Grove, Deerfield, Northbrook, Glenview, Mt. Prospect, Prospect Heights, and Arlington Heights. For the individual agency comparisons, Glenview Park District was tested at a 7.8% share of local property taxes, vs. 5.5% for Buffalo Grove and 5% for both Arlington Heights and Mt. Prospect,

32

Loyalty/Net Promoter Score (NPS)

The Park District’s Net Promoter Score/NPS* (as a measure of loyalty, beyond just satisfaction) has likewise improved significantly since 2015.  NPS is a standard metric used to gauge one’s likelihood to recommend a service or product provider, using a 0-10 scale.  Those most likely to recommend (scores of 9+) are considered “Promoters”, and scores of 7-8 represent “Passive” respondents (only somewhat likely to recommend). All others (scores of 0-6) are “Detractors”, who are least likely to recommend a provider like the WPD.  The Net Promoter Score is calculated by subtracting the % of “Detractors” from the % of “Promoters.  The District’s NPS is +41, much improved from 2015 survey results (+24 NPS for programs and events, and +15 for parks and facilities). A majority (56%) are now “Promoters” (nearly 4 times the number of “Detractors”). Among WPD program and event participants in the past year, the NPS is even stronger at +53 (vs. +16 among non-participants).  The current overall NPS (aggregated across WPD programs, events, parks, facilities, etc. in general) remains below the “world class” level of at least +75.

Likelihood to Recommend WPD (0-10) and Net Promoter Score (NPS*), Over Time NPS= +24

NPS= +14

43%

45%

38%

19% 2015: WPD Programs and Events

NPS= +41 56%

Passives (7-8)

24% 29% 31% 2015: WPD Parks and Facilities

Promoters (9-10)

Detractors (0-6)

15% 2023: WPD Parks, Facilities, Programs and Events

Q27. On a zero through ten scale, how likely are you to recommend Wheeling Park District’s parks, facilities, programs, and events to friends and neighbors? Zero means not at all likely and ten means extremely likely. * Net Promoter Score (NPS) = % Promoters - % Detractors

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Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan | Wheeling Park District 103

Appendix A

DEI Efforts

Nine out of ten residents also feel that the Wheeling Park District is inclusive and represents their household’s needs, interests, and background – regardless of one’s race or ethnicity.  In fact, Asian-only adults are most likely to feel represented and included by the WPD (98%).  Residents ages 55-64 tend to feel less represented or included, along with non-WPD users and visitors. These two groups overlap somewhat, as 18% of this age segment have not visited parks or facilities (vs. 13% overall).

Does Your Household Feel Properly Represented/Included Within WPD Offerings?

Overall

90%

Under age 35 35-44

5%

91%

45-54

9%

89%

55-64

76%

65+

11% 24%

95%

White

5%

89%

Asian households

8%

88%

WPD park users

12%

92% 72%

No

2%

92%

Hispanic/Latino ethnicity

Yes

11%

98%

Other/Multi-Racial

Non-users/visitors

10%

95%

8% 28%

Q24. The Wheeling Park District is committed to creating an environment that respects and celebrates the differences of all community members by providing access and opportunities to everyone, regardless of social/financial/ethnic background,, gender, age, sexual orientation, or physical ability. Do you feel your household is properly represented and included within the Park District and its offerings? NOTE: Response under 2% are not shown.

34

DEI Efforts

Most often, those feeling less included or represented tend to feel that the District does not focus enough on adult and/or senior programming and activities (and is too “child-focused”).

In some of these cases, they seek more evening and weekend options.  The remaining comments (see next page) most often focus on offering more affordable programs and activities to financially-challenged residents, followed by adding program options directed toward specific activities/interests.  As reported, relatively few cite race or ethnicity/cultural as a reason for feeling excluded (n=3), likewise lack of LGBTQ representation or inclusion (n=2).

Verbatim Responses: Reasons Why WPD Is Not Considered Inclusive/Diverse Too Focused on Children/Young Families (With Related Scheduling Issues)

“Not many events geared towards 18- to 30-year-olds who don't have children.”

“Emphasis is on people with kids only. Lots of working adults need services in evenings and afternoons on weekends. We pay the taxes.”

“You have programming for children and for seniors but not much for adults ages 30-60.”

“We are a middle-aged childless couple. Most activities are for families/young children or the elderly.”

“Need more programs for older adults 50+ that are fun and engaging.”

“I fall into a funny group. I work full-time, am 58, and single. No kids. I am looking for something for myself, but it has to work around my working schedule and I'm not going to do anything before work. Something with a social component would be nice but is not essential.”

“Could offer more for older adults.”

“Not enough adult activities. Your programs should aim towards ALL backgrounds, not just to who you cater to now.”

More Programs for Seniors (Some With Similar Scheduling Issues)

“More programs for senior citizens, perhaps partnering with the library.”

“Senior activities need attention.”

“It would be very nice if programs for older adults 65+ who walk but very slowly and for not long, to have activities they can participate in the mid to late afternoons or evenings. Seems like most senior activities are in the mornings or early afternoons. Some of us prefer later hours!”

“I'm 72 with no children or grandchildren. I don't want to play bingo. I don't knit or crochet. What about educational or historical events? No comparison with Grayslake Park District.”

“Not much for seniors besides trips.”

“Need more senior classes, Saturdays or early evenings.”

“Seniors are not happy. We used to have our own room -- not rushed out.”

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104 Wheeling Park District | Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan

Appendix A

DEI Efforts

Verbatim Responses: Reasons Why WPD Is Not Considered Inclusive/Diverse (cont’d) Too Expensive/Hard to Afford

“Programming can be expensive. Especially for families with many children and need summer activities.”

“I see prices are high.”

“Also, not too expensive. As a single adult, I financially support myself. Money is always an issue.”

“The programs and events provided are very basic and not adapted to all kind of school, training, financial and cultural backgrounds. There are no free programs/events for those who are very highly educated (or to) those in the beginning of adult life (or to) help residents taking care of their health (or to) help to be active and eat well and according with each one’s needs, consistently and continuously.”

“Also, lower prices for seniors for activities.”

“The fee for indoor pool was increased dramatically for Wheeling residents.”

More Programming – Specific Groups or Activities

“Nothing is geared towards nerdy/sci-fi/fantasy folks (adults) that are less athletic but still want to be active and social.”

“We need more programs for kids ages 10 to 17. After-school for kids older than 5th grade. A lot of time we are on a waiting list.”

“Not enough programs offered.”

“Again, youth needs activities! Sports such as volleyball, swim, tennis, soccer. This demographic is completely ignored yet they need something to do in order to stay away from other, more dangerous options. Wheeling, you could do better!

Greater Inclusion of Cultural/Racial/Ethnic Groups

“Lack of outreach to minority groups of programs available.”

“Jewish holidays are under-represented, like for Hanukkah around the holidays. It would be cool if you did a menorah building or something.”

“Give all ethnicities equal representation.”

Greater Inclusion of LGBTQ+ Residents

“Include some LGBT activities for all ages.”

“Most events are a bit heteronormative and don't cater to LBGTQ+ or non-traditional relationships.”

Other Comments/Suggestions

“If there is an issue arising, the customer service at the front desk are not willing to help you at all and trying to be rude with you as much as possible. They just don't care.. and they believe only in money and district policy.”

“The outdoor concert area needs some shade. I am sun-sensitive. The last time I went, I gave up halfway through the concert due to the sun.”

“Due to the pandemic and its continuing existence, it’s best to not have any group activities – especially for high-risk seniors.”

“Because when I'm there, no one can tell me why you don't have lifeguards AT ALL TIMES.” 36

Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan | Wheeling Park District 105

Appendix A

II.

WPD Park/Facility Usage and Satisfaction

37

WPD Usage/Visits in Past Year

Most residents (87%) report visiting a Wheeling park or location in the past year (up from 72% in 2015).  Nearly three out of four of self-reported visitors (73%) have gone to Heritage Park or one of its facilities. More than half (61%) visited the CRC in the past year (representing 53% of all respondents, including nonWPD visitors).  Among the other large facilities, 41% of self-reported visitors went to the Family Aquatic Center, and 25% to Chevy Chase Country Club.  Childerley Park, Chamber Park, and Horizon Park rank next (cited by 15% to 20% of visitors each).

Visited WPD Park or Facility in Past 12 Months?

No, 13%

Yes, 87%

n=352

Wheeling PD Park/ Facility Usage Heritage Park (NET)

% Reporting (n=352)

All Respondents (n=400)

73%

63%

Heritage Park

58%

51%

Performance Pavilion

46%

40%

Sports Complex

25%

22%

Community Recreation Center

61%

53%

Family Aquatic Center

41%

36%

Chevy Chase Country Club

25%

22%

Horizon Park

20%

17%

Chamber Park

17%

15%

Childerley Park

15%

13%

Husky Park

10%

9%

Pleasant Run Park

10%

9%

Mark Twain Park

10%

8%

Northside Park

7%

6%

Malibu Park

5%

4%

Denoyer Park

4%

4%

Avalon Sienna Park

4%

3%

Meadowbrook Park

3%

2%

Other WPD site

4%

4%

Q5. Below is a list of Wheeling Park District parks and facilities. Please read through the entire list and indicate which one(s) you or others in your household have used or visited in the past 12 months.

106 Wheeling Park District | Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan

38

Appendix A

WPD Usage/Visits in Past Year

Usage levels among all respondents (including self-reported users/visitors and nonusers/visitors – Wheeling residents overall) are trended below over time.  Heritage Park and Horizon Park usage appears to have increased over time. 2023 responses for the CRC have held over time but rebounded since 2015 for the Aquatic Center and Chamber Park. There is no change for Chevy Chase Country Club.

Wheeling PD Park/Facility Usage

2023 - All Respondents (n=400)

Heritage Park (NET)

2015 Results – All Respondents (n=306)

2010 Results – All Respondents

63%

n.a.

n.a.

Heritage Park

51%

32%

35%

Performance Pavilion

40%

n.a.

n.a.

Sports Complex

22%

n.a.

n.a.

Community Recreation Center

53%

56%

50%

Family Aquatic Center

36%

19%

40%

Chevy Chase Country Club

22%

22%

n.a.

Horizon Park

17%

11%

11%

Chamber Park

15%

5%

13%

Childerley Park

13%

11%

24%

Husky Park

9%

13%

7%

Pleasant Run Park

9%

5%

7%

Mark Twain Park

8%

n.a.

n.a.

Northside Park

6%

4%

4%

Malibu Park

4%

3%

6%

Denoyer Park

4%

2%

6%

Avalon Sienna Park

3%

n.a.

n.a.

39

WPD Usage/Visits in Past Year

Based on 2023 results, many WPD parks primarily attract visitors from their immediate area.

However, larger facilities like Heritage Park Performance Pavilion, the CRC, the Aquatic Center, and Chevy Chase Country Club tend to draw users from throughout the community.

Park/Facility

n

Overall (row) % of Users Heritage Park (NET)

Region Northwest

Central

East

South

400

26%

21%

39%

14%

257

21%

22%

46%

11%

H eritage P ark

205

18%

22%

51%

9%

P erform ance P avilion

164

25%

23%

39%

13%

S ports Com plex

87

21%

16%

51%

12%

Community Recreation Center

232

25%

24%

37%

14%

Family Aquatic Center

138

26%

22%

35%

17%

Chevy Chase Country Club

99

25%

19%

42%

14%

Horizon Park

84

19%

44%

28%

10%

Chamber Park

65

25%

23%

44%

8%

Childerley Park

55

46%

23%

27%

4%

Husky Park

48

12%

61%

23%

4%

Mark Twain Park

34

5%

52%

31%

11%

Pleasant Run Park

36

11%

3%

37%

49%

Northside Park

22

23%

28%

45%

4%

Avalon Sienna Park

14

-

-

24%

76%

Denoyer Park

15

59%

-

38%

3%

Malibu Park

17

16%

49%

29%

6%

Meadowbrook Park

10

6%

13%

74%

7%

Higher than average draw from region (statistically meaningful at 95% level)

40

Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan | Wheeling Park District 107

Appendix A

Satisfaction with WPD Parks/Facilities

Satisfaction remains very strong with WPD parks and facilities among visitors in the past year, improving on already positive 2015 ratings.  Across all attributes tested, satisfaction is significantly higher now compared to eight years ago. The biggest increases are for overall safety at these locations, and the number and variety of parks within the District.  Note that a majority (52%+) are “extremely satisfied” with each feature, with the exception of accessibility (with 11% dissatisfaction and a smaller improvement compared to 2015).

Satisfaction With Wheeling Park District Parks/Facilities Visited (0-10 scale) Overall experience 3% Cleanliness, maintenance, upkeep of park buildings and facilities

15%

25%

2023 Avg. 0-10 Rating

2015 Avg. 0-10 Rating

8.5

n.a.

55%

5% 8%

19%

66%

8.7

8.0

Cleanliness, maintenance, upkeep of parks 3% 11%

19%

64%

8.6

7.9

59%

8.5

7.3

5% 9% Overall safety 3% Number and variety of Park District parks

12%

Number and variety of Park District facilities 3%12% Level of service provided by Park District staff

Neutral (5)

8%

18%

60%

8.4

7.6

11%

14%

60%

8.3

7.6

52%

8.2

7.7

47%

7.7

7.3

5% 9%

Overall access (parking, paths, entrances/exits) Dissatisfied (0-4)

23%

14%

11% 6%

21%

16%

19%

Somewhat Satisfied (6-7)

Very Satisfied (8)

Up 1.2 points

Extremely Satisfied (9-10)

Q8. Thinking about the Wheeling Park District parks and facilities that you visited in the past year, rate your overall satisfaction with each of the following (0-10 satisfaction scale).

NOTE: Responses under 3% are not labeled.

41

Satisfaction with WPD Parks/Facilities

In general, the strongest satisfaction tends to come from women, residents ages 35 to 54 and 65+, and Hispanic/Latino adults. Lower scores (still very positive) tend to come from men and residents ages 55 to 64.  Note that satisfaction with accessibility is lower than average among recent WPD program and event participants, who are likely more frequent visitors to facilities and experience parking and/or crowding issues.

Lower than Avg. Ratings

Higher than Avg. Ratings

Overall experience (Avg. 0-10 rating = 8.5)

-

Ages 55-64 (8.0)

-

Ages 65+ (8.8)

Overall cleanliness, maintenance, and upkeep of park buildings and facilities (avg. = 8.7)

-

Men (8.3) Ages 55-64 (8.1)

-

Women (9.0) Ages 35-44 (9.1)

Overall cleanliness, maintenance, and upkeep of parks (avg. = 8.6)

-

Men (8.3)

-

Women (8.9) Lived in Wheeling 5-9 yrs. (9.1)

Overall safety (avg. = 8.5)

-

Men (8.3) Ages 55-64 (7.9)

-

Women (8.7) Ages 35-44 (8.9), 65+ (8.7)

Number/variety of Park District parks (avg. = 8.4)

-

Men (8.1)

-

Women (8.7) Hispanic/Latino residents (8.8)

Number/variety of Park District facilities (avg. = 8.3)

-

Households without children (8.1)

-

Households with children (8.5) Hispanic/Latino residents (8.7)

Level of service provided by Park District staff (avg. = 8.2)

-

Men (7.8) Lived in Wheeling 10-19 yrs. (7.6)

-

Women (8.5) Ages 65+ (8.8) Lived in Wheeling 20+ yrs. (8.6)

Overall access – parking, paths, entrances/exits (avg. = 7.7)

-

WPD program participants in past year (7.5) Homeowners (7.4)

-

Non-program/event participants (8.4) Renters (8.4)

-

42

108 Wheeling Park District | Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan

Appendix A Reasons for Dissatisfaction with WPD Parks/Facilities

Among those giving lower satisfaction scores on any attribute (6 or lower on a 0-10 scale), n=81 respondents explained their concerns. By far, limited parking near the CRC/Aquatic Center/Heritage Park is the top issue.  The remaining concerns are scattered, though lighting and safety come up somewhat frequently for parks in general, followed by the need for more amenities and better upkeep/cleanliness. A few seek updates on the Childerley Park project.

Reasons for Dissatisfaction with Parks or Facilities (n=81)

Parks in General (none specific)

n=57

Community Rec Center (CRC)

Aquatics/Pool(s)

n=19

n=8

Childerley Park n=6

Heritage Park

n= 4

• Lack of parking (n=17) • Better lighting at night (n=4) and safety issues (n=6) • Management/staff/admin issues – better service, more focus on healthy lifestyle, open to suggestions, etc. (n=6) • Better/more amenities – benches, playgrounds, etc. (n=5) • Cleanliness, upkeep (n=5) • More/better programming and events in general (n=4) • Improvements, upgrade parks (n=3) • More/better trails (n=2)

• Lack of parking (n=12) • Management/staff admin issues (n=2) • Cleanliness/upkeep (n=2) • Better fitness equipment (n=2) • n=1 each: Weekend hours; better maintenance/upkeep

• Cleanliness/upkeep (n=4) • Safety (n=2) • n=1 each: Lack of parking; Improvements/upgrades needed; Crowded, rude people; Swimming program issues

• Improvements/upgrades taking too long/needed (n=4) • More maintenance needed (n=1) • More trash cans (n=1)

• n=1 each: Cleanliness (goose droppings); Lighting; Traffic issues; Sports fields too busy with out-of-towners

43

Reasons for Dissatisfaction with WPD Parks/Facilities

Sample Verbatim Responses: Reasons For Lower Satisfaction With Parks/Facilities

“Heritage Sports Complex is super dark at closing time and the staff responsible for closing is often alone. We've gone over there to look out for our child when a random sports participant is hanging around after closing” “Childerley Park has been in need of an upgrade for years. It is finally being updated, but it is taking ages. Nothing was done on it for months and now it is winter. There has been no communication on the timeline and if it will be open in time for spring.”

“Why is it taking so long for upgrades at Childerley Park? It was out of service for the entire season last year and is questionable for this year.”

“Closer and more parking by the main community center.”

“After the renovation, the CRC has less parking and is sometimes full near the CRC main entrance, so we have to park further north, far away from open doors in the evenings.”

“The only problem I have is the parking situation at the CRC in the summer. Because there are a lot of activities (waterpark, summer camps, pavilion concerts, etc.). I do not feel that the parking is adequate.”

“I am disappointed in the lack of discipline in members and staff in cleaning the equipment at the fitness center. COVID is still here, and the rules are gone because the CDC does not enforce so WPD does not enforce. Dirty and dangerous. Need masking and wipe downs.”

“The gym needs to be cleaned at closing. They close without cleaning the machines. Also, things break and not everything gets replaced. Sometimes we have to buy our own things because they didn't get replaced.”

“Problem with people who are coming inside from the pool. Bathroom floors are always wet. Not safe!”

“Just wish there were more playgrounds for older kids.”

“Someone's messed up the park at night. Left plastic bags and bottles and cans.”

“Walking paths can be dangerous when bicyclists are also using them. Some areas of the paths have inclines and when bicyclists are coming down the hill, they are going pretty fast.”

“Customer service could be better.”

“There are less swings in the parks in general. Cutting down of beautiful trees. Less shade during summer when children should be outside but cannot hide from direct sun on equipment. Need fountains at each park as well.”

44

Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan | Wheeling Park District 109

Appendix A

WPD Usage/Visits in Past Year

The most frequently visited WPD locations are the CRC, followed by Heritage Park and its amenities. Roughly one in ten said that the Aquatic Center is their most frequent destination.  Frequency of usage at specific locations tends to depend on whether or not children under age 18 are present in the household, and/or by region.

WPD Park/Facility Visited Most Often (single response)

Community Recreation Center

29% TOTAL

35%

Heritage Park

20%

Heritage Pk. Performance Pavilion

Esp. ages 55-64 (15%)

5%

Heritage Park Sports Complex

Esp. households without children (6%, vs. 0% with children)

4%

Family Aquatic Center

9%

Horizon Park

4%

Pleasant Run Park

3%

Chamber Park

3%

Childerley Park

2%

Esp. East region (40%)

Especially ages 35-44 (50%); WPD program/ event participants (41%), lived Wheeling35+ yrs. (54%)

Esp. household with children (18%, vs. 5% of those without children)

Esp. Central region (15%)

Malibu Park 2% Husky Park 2%

Esp. Central region (5%)

Chevy Chase County Club 2% All others (1% or less each)

9% 45

Q6. Which one park or facility do you visit most often?

CRC Usage/Visits in Past Year

Among self-reported CRC visitors in the past year, about half report using either the fitness center and/or the indoor walking track. Nearly two in five (38%) said they used the pool (down slightly from 45% in 2015).  One third said that they have used the gym, and one in five went to Guest Services. Compared to 2015 survey responses, reported rentals of the multiple purpose room is down by half (from 20% to 10% currently).  As shown on the next page, women and households with children tend to report using these amenities. Hispanic/Latino adults and renters are most likely to use the preschool facility. The indoor pool also garners higher self-reported usage from the newest Wheeling residents.

CRC Amenities/Facilities Used Among Self-Reported Visitors in the Past Year (n=226, multiple responses, trended) 51% 53%

Health & fitness center Indoor walking track

47%

n.a.

38%

Indoor pool Gymnasium Guest services

22%

n.a.

10%

Multi-purpose room rental (meetings, parties) Preschool

n.a.

Congregate dining

4% 4%

None in the past year

45%

33% 31%

n.a.

20%

8% 2023 9%

2015

Q7. [IF REPORT USING CRC IN PAST YEAR[: Please indicate if you or others in your household have used or visited any of the following facilities within the Community Recreation Center in the past year.

110 Wheeling Park District | Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan

46

Appendix A

CRC Usage/Visits in Past Year

Significant Differences: CRC Amenities Used/Visited in Past Year (self-reported)

Overall Health & fitness center

51%

Indoor walking track

47%

Most Likely to Report Using in Past Year -

White residents (56%)

Ages 35-44 (74%) Households with children (53%, vs. 30% of those without children) Lived in District <5 yrs. (59%)

< no statistically significant differences >

Indoor pool

38%

-

Gymnasium

33%

-

Households with children (49%, vs. 25% of those without children)

Guest services

22%

-

Women (28%, vs. 14% of men)

Multi-purpose room rental for meetings, parties, etc.

10%

-

Ages 56-64 (27%) White residents (12%)

Preschool

8%

-

Women (13%, vs. 2% of men) Hispanic/Latino residents (22%) Households with children (23%, vs. 1% of those without children) Renters (19%, vs. 4% of homeowners)

Congregate dining

4%

-

Women (6%, vs. 1% of men)

None in the past year

9%

-

East region (16%)

47

Reasons for Non-Usage/Non-Visits

Two-thirds of self-reported non-WPD visitors (n=26 of 39, or 67%) attribute their non-usage to not having any children under 18 in the household. This suggests that they perceive the District as being mostly relevant to children/young families (and not their household).  The rest give scattered responses most often a lack of familiarity or awareness of what the WPD offers, usage of a wide range of other fitness or recreational providers, health issues, or a sense that little is offered for their age group (the youngest and oldest adults – again, age groups less likely to have children).

Reasons for Non-Usage (n=39, multiple responses) No children in household

26

Unaware of/Unfamiliar with Park District offerings

9

Use other facilities for recreation/activities

8

Poor health/mobility issues

7

No facilities/programs offered for my age group

7

Just not interested in parks/recreation programs/related actitivites

e.g., Arlington Club; North Shore Senior Center; Sky Fitness; Cook County and Lake County Forest Preserves; Lake Arlington; Planet Fitness; Buffalo Grove Fitness Center; in-home treadmill; larger nearby parks

n=3 under age 35, and n=4 ages 65+

6

Inconvenient scheduling/hours of operation

5

Too busy/don't have time

4

Cost/fees are too high

3

Location/distance issues

1

Dislike the Park District/had a bad experience

1

Do not feel welcome or included

1

Q10. [NON-VISITORS]: If you have not visited or used a Park District park or facility recently, why not? Please select all that apply.

48

Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan | Wheeling Park District 111

Appendix A

III. Needs Assessment: Indoor Facilities

49

Need/Interest in Indoor Facilities

When asked about specific indoor recreational facilities, nearly half of Wheeling residents (47%) express interest in an indoor fitness center. This is followed by a sauna or steam room, and indoor lap swimming (each cited by about a third overall).  About one in four are also interested in warm water therapy pool, followed closely by gym courts and indoor pickleball courts.  One in ten express a need or interest in synthetic indoor turf fields.  Residents’ age is most likely to impact interest or demand for these amenities (see differences on next page). For example:  The youngest adults tend to be interested in synthetic turf fields (under age 35) and/or gym courts (38%).  Older residents (ages 55-64) are more likely to convey interest in a sauna/steam room, or a warm water therapy pool.  Note that 25% overall report no interest in need for any of the indoor facilities tested.

While non-WPD park and facility users tend to be in this group, at least one in five still express interest in:  A fitness center (25% cite interest)  Indoor lap pool (25%)  Sauna/steam room (21%).

Indoor Facilities of Interest/Needed Among Residents (% “Yes”) Indoor fitness center

47%

Sauna/steam room

34%

Indoor lap swimming

32%

Warm water therapy pool

27%

Gym courts for basketball, volleyball, etc.

24%

Indoor pickleball courts

Indoor synthetic turf fields

None of the above

20%

10%

25%

Q11A. Please indicate if you or any household member uses or has a need or interest in the following indoor recreational facilities.

112 Wheeling Park District | Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan

50

Appendix A

Need/Interest in Indoor Facilities

Significant Differences: Interest/Demand in Indoor Facilities Overall

Overall

Most Likely to Express Interest/Need/Use

Indoor fitness center

47%

-

Homeowners (53%, vs. 37% of renters) Plan to live in Wheeling 6+ yrs. (51%)

Sauna/steam room

34%

-

Ages 55-64 (55%)

Indoor lap swimming

32%

-

Ages 45-54 (56%)

Warm water therapy pool

27%

-

Women (34%, vs. 18% of men) Ages 55-64 (41%) Plan to live in Wheeling 6+ yrs. (30%)

Gym courts for basketball, volleyball, etc.

24%

-

Ages 35-54 (39%) Other/multi-racial adults (37%) Households with children (38%, vs. 21% of those without children) Plan to live in Wheeling 6+ yrs. (27%)

Indoor pickleball courts

20%

-

Plan to live in Wheeling 6+ yrs. (22%)

Indoor synthetic turf fields

10%

-

Under age 35 (22%) Central region (19%) Hispanic/Latino residents (18%) Households with children (18%, vs. 8% of those without children) Plan to live in Wheeling 6+ yrs. (12%)

None in the past year

25%

-

Non-park/facility users or visitors (59%) Non-program/event participants (43%)

51

Quadrant Analysis Explanation

Quadrant Analysis: Determining if Demand for Facilities is Being Met •

Respondents who report use or interest in each type of facility were also asked how well needs are currently being met on a 1-5 scale.  A score of “4” means their needs are mostly met, and a “5” means they are completely met.

•

The results are reported on the following pages using a scatter plot that shows both:  Overall demand for each facility (vertical axis) based on the % who indicate need, usage or interest  And the % with scores of “4” or “5” who report that this “need” is currently being met (horizontal axis) using the 15 scale.

•

In the example below, facilities A and C in the upper right quadrant are in high demand and sufficient supply, while facilities E and G (upper left) represent opportunity (high demand not currently being met).  Facilities to the bottom (B, D, and F) are in lower demand.

100%

Meeting High Demand: High demand is being met

High Priority Needs: High demand not met

80%

Level of Demand (% Currently Using/Interested In Using)

Facility G

60%

40%

Facility E

Facility F

Facility C Facility A

Facility D

Facility B

20%

0%

Low Priority Needs: Low demand not being met 0%

20%

Exceeding Demand: Meeting low demand 40%

60%

80%

Degree of Meeting Demand/Need: % Saying Need is Being Met (scores of 4+ on a 1-5 scale)

100%

52

Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan | Wheeling Park District 113

Appendix A

Need/Interest in Indoor Facilities

Many of the indoor facilities tested are already considered readily available in the community, including fitness facilities, gymnasiums and pickleball courts, and indoor lap swimming.

None of the unmet needs or “gaps” are considered a high priority, but a sauna/steam room registers one of the highest levels of demand, and the lowest level of availability among any local providers or facilities (followed by a warm water therapy pool).



100%

High Priority Needs

Meeting High Demand

Level of Demand

Demand (% Currently Using/Interested in Using)

80%

60%

40%

Warm water therapy pool

20%

0%

Gym courts

Synthetic turf fields

Low Priority Needs 0%

Indoor fitness center

Indoor lap swimming

Sauna/steam room

20%

Pickleball courts

Exceeding Demand

40%

60%

80%

100%

Degree of Meeting Demand/Needs Meeting Demand: % Saying Need is Mostly/Completely Being Met (scores of 4+ on a 1-5 scale)

53

Need/Interest in Indoor Facilities

When asked which one indoor facility represents the top priority for the WPD, the most frequent answer is “none” (35%) – reflecting that many of the high priority items are already accessible (as reported on the previous page). 

Half as many (17% overall) cite an indoor fitness facility as the top priority, followed closely by a sauna/steam room and warm water therapy pool (the top two unmet needs). Fewer than 9% feel that any of the remaining facilities tested represent a priority for the District.



In this question:   

Women tend to cite a warm water therapy pool as their #1 priority.

Those with children tend to be interested in gym courts, whole older adults (ages 55-64) place indoor lap swimming at the top of their list.

Young adults and Hispanic/Latino residents tend to express the most interest in indoor synthetic turf fields.

Top Priority: Most Important Indoor Facility/Amenity For WPD To Provide/Expand/Improve (n=400) Indoor fitness center

17%

Sauna/steam room

13%

Warm water therapy pool

10%

Indoor pickleball courts

8%

Gym courts for basketball, volleyball, etc.

7%

Indoor lap swimming

7%

Indoor synthetic turf fields

3%

None/no answer

35%

Q12. Which one of those indoor amenities/facilities should be the top priority for the Park District to provide, add, or improve?

114 Wheeling Park District | Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan

54

Appendix A

Need/Interest in Indoor Facilities

Significant Differences: Indoor Facilities - #1 Priority for Wheeling Park District

Overall

Most Likely to Cite as Top Priority

Indoor fitness center

17%

< no statistically significant differences >

Sauna/steam room

13%

< no statistically significant differences >

Warm water therapy pool

10%

-

Indoor pickleball courts

8%

-

Plan to live in Wheeling 6+ yrs. (9%)

Gym courts for basketball, volleyball, etc.

7%

-

Households with children (15%, vs. 4% of those without children) Lived in Wheeling 5-9 yrs. (19%) Plan to live in Wheeling 4-5 years (16%)

Indoor lap swimming

7%

-

Ages 55-64 (15%)

Indoor synthetic turf fields

3%

-

Under age 35 (14%) Hispanic/Latino residents (11%) Plan to live in Wheeling 2-3 years (13%)

-

None in the past year

35%

Non-park/facility users or visitors (64%, with another 10% expressing interest in a sauna/steam room) Non-program/event participants (46%, with another 16% interested in a fitness center and 10% in a sauna/steam room)

-

Women (15%, vs. 3% of men ) White residents (13%)

55

Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan | Wheeling Park District 115

Appendix A

IV. Needs Assessment: Outdoor Facilities

56

Need/Interest in Outdoor Facilities

As in 2015, WPD residents continue to express strong interest and demand in outdoor trails (74%, down slightly from 85% eight years ago). A nature center is a distant second (40%), followed by playgrounds, dog parks, and/or outdoor fitness stations. 

All segments within the District voice strong interest in trails, along with a nature center (relatively few significant differences).



Not surprisingly, those with children are more likely than average to have a need or interest in playgrounds, lighted grass sports fields, and/or a skateboard park.





Nearly half of those aged 45-54 express interest in an off-leash dog park. Adults aged 35-44 tend to be most interested in outdoor fitness equipment.

Overall, 14% express no interest in any of the outdoor features tested. These residents tend to be men and ages 65+, along with those who haven’t used a park or facility in the past year. 

Still, several non-WPD visitors express interest in trails (38%) and a nature center (19%).

Outdoor Facilities of Interest/Need Among Residents (% “Yes”) Walking and biking trails

74%

Nature center

40%

Playgrounds

29%

Off-leash dog parks

25%

Outdoor fitness equipment

23%

Outdoor pickleball courts Lighted natural grass athletic fields Skateboard park

16% 11% 7%

Cricket pitch

3%

None

14%

Q13A. Please indicate if you or any household member uses or has a need or interest in the following outdoor recreational facilities.

116 Wheeling Park District | Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan

57

Appendix A

Need/Interest in Outdoor Facilities

Significant Differences: Interest/Demand in Outdoor Facilities Overall

Overall

Most Likely to Express Interest/Need/Use

Walking/biking trails

74%

-

Lived in Wheeling 5-9 yrs. (91%), Plan to live in Wheeling 6+ yrs. (80%)

Nature center

40%

-

Plan to live in Wheeling 6+ yrs. (43%)

Playgrounds

29%

-

Ages 35-44 (53%) Households with children (54%, vs. 22% of those without children) Plan to live in Wheeling 6+ yrs. (33%)

Off-leash dog parks

25%

-

Ages 45-54 (43%) Households without any children (29%, vs. 22% of those with children) Plan to live in Wheeling 6+ yrs. (27%)

Outdoor fitness equipment

23%

-

Ages 35-44 (38%) Plan to live in Wheeling 6+ yrs. (25%)

Outdoor pickleball courts

16%

-

White adults (19%) Plan to live in Wheeling 6+ yrs. (18%)

Lighted natural grass athletic fields

11%

-

Under age 35 (21%) Households with children (23%, vs. 7% of those without children) Plan to live in Wheeling 6+ yrs. (13%)

Skateboard park

7%

-

Women (9%, vs. 1% of men) Households with children (17%, vs. 3% of those without children)

Cricket pitch

3% -

Men (20%, vs. 10% of women) Ages 65+ (21%) Non-WPD park/facility users or visitors (51%) Non-WPD program/event participants (25%)

None/No answer

< no statistically significant differences >

14%

58

Need/Interest in Outdoor Facilities

Most of those interested in trails (the outdoor amenity in highest demand) feel that the need for trails is currently sufficiently met. Likewise, interest in playgrounds and cricket pitches is being addressed. 

The remaining outdoor facilities represent lower priority “gaps” (given lower levels of demand or interest), but the biggest unmet needs appear to be a nature center, off-leash dog park, and perhaps outdoor fitness equipment.

100%

High Priority Needs

Meeting High Demand

Trails

Level of Demand

Demand (% Currently Using/Interested in Using)

80%

60%

Nature center

40%

Playgrounds

Outdoor fitness equip.

Dog park 20%

Pickleball courts 0%

Low Priority Needs 0%

Lighted grass sports fields Skateboard park

20%

40%

Cricket pitch 60%

Exceeding Demand 80%

100%

Degree of Meeting Demand/Needs Meeting Demand: % Saying Need is Mostly/Completely Being Met (scores of 4+ on a 1-5 scale)

59

Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan | Wheeling Park District 117

Appendix A

Need/Interest in Outdoor Facilities

Residents’ strong interest in trails extends into their suggested #1 priority for the Park District (even though they feel this need is mostly being met). Note that interest in a dog park, also a top unmet need, now ranks second overall as a top priority. 

Homeowners are most likely to prioritize off-leash dog parks (see next page).



Ranking third are playgrounds (predictably among younger adults and those with children), followed by a nature center (especially among women) and outdoor fitness equipment (strongest among residents in the South region).



One in four (24%) feel none of these are priorities (including 31% of men overall, and 53% of non-WPD park and facility users in the past year).

Top Priority: Most Important Outdoor Facility/Amenity For WPD To Provide/Expand/Improve (n=400) Walking/biking trails

33%

Off-leash dog parks

12%

Playgrounds

10%

Nature center

8%

Outdoor fitness equipment

6%

Outdoor pickleball courts

3%

Lighted natural grass athletic fields

3%

Cricket pitch

1%

Skateboard park

1%

None

24%

Q14. Which one of those outdoor amenities/facilities should be the top priority for the Park District to provide, add, or improve?

60

Need/Interest in Outdoor Facilities

Significant Differences: Outdoor Facilities - #1 Priority for Wheeling Park District

Overall

Most Likely to Cite as Top Priority

Walking/biking trails

33%

-

Off-leash dog parks

12%

-

Homeowners (16%, vs. 6% of renters)

Playgrounds

10%

-

Ages 35-44 (27%) Households with children (23%, vs. 6% of those without children)

Nature center

8%

-

Women (12%, vs. 3% of men)

Outdoor fitness equipment

6%

-

South region (15%) Lived in Wheeling 5-9 yrs. (17%)

Outdoor pickleball courts

3%

-

White adults (5% -- and 0% of other races)

Lighted natural grass athletic fields

3%

-

Under age 35 (14%) Households with children (11%, vs. 0% of those without children) Lived in Wheeling 10-19 yrs. (11%)

Cricket pitch

1%

Skateboard Park

1%

None/No answer

24%

Households without children (37%, vs. 23% of those with children) Lived in Wheeling 20-34 yrs. (44%)

< no statistically significant differences > < no statistically significant differences > -

Men (31%, vs. 19% of women) Non-WPD park/facility users or visitors (53%) Non-WPD program/event participants (31%)

61

118 Wheeling Park District | Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan

Appendix A

V.

Recent Program/Event Participation and Satisfaction

62

Recent WPD Program/Event Participation

Residents are most likely to attend WPD events, especially outdoor summer concerts and community-wide/holiday events. Pool-related programs rank among the top self-reported participation for adults (aquatics) and youth (swimming lessons). Fitness programs and personal training also rank highly among adults.

Top Youth Program Participation (Past Year) Swimming lessons

9%

Summer camp

8%

Top Adult Program Participation (Past Year) Fitness programs** Swimming/ aquatics

17% 10%

Top WPD Event Participation (Past Year) Outdoor concerts

37%

Community events***

22%

Youth sports/teams*

6%

Personal fitness training

7%

Outdoor Movies in the Park

15%

Youth sports lessons/clinics

6%

Active adult/ seniors

6%

Unplug at the Park

14%

Golf

5% 4%

Preschool/early childhood

5%

Other swimming/ aquatics

4%

Adult pickleball lessons/leagues

Arts and crafts

3%

Arts and crafts

3%

Before/Afterschool

3%

Adult team sports*

2% 2% 1%

Dance/ballet

2%

Ping pong/ Badminton

Golf

<1%

Adults sports lessons/clinics

Q15. Please indicate if you or any household member has participated in any of the following WPD programs and events in the past 12 months. * (e.g., soccer, softball, basketball, etc.) ** (e.g., yoga, spin, group classes) *** (e.g., Fallapalooza, Boonanza, Holiday Hoopla, Egg Scramble, etc.)

63

Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan | Wheeling Park District 119

Appendix A

Satisfaction with WPD Programs/Events

Recent WPD program and event participants remain very satisfied with these activities (consistent with 2015 survey results). 94% are satisfied (vs. only 2% dissatisfied), and a majority (58%) are now extremely satisfied (with scores of 9+ on a 0-10 scale). 

Based on the overall average score of 8.5 in 2023 (very satisfied), the highest ratings tend to come from female participants and white residents (8.7 each).



Lower than average ratings (though still very favorable) come from:  



Men (8.1) Other/multi-race adults (7.9) and Asian residents (7.7).

Relatively few who are neutral or dissatisfied offer reasons or suggestions (see next page), often citing facility issues rather than programs themselves. The most frequent complaint pertains to the pool’s lap lanes (n=3 cases).

Overall Satisfaction with Wheeling Park District Programs/Events (0-10 scale)

2023

2% 4%

2015

2% 10%

Dissatisfied (0-4)

12%

24%

13%

Neutral (5)

8.5

58%

29%

Somewhat Satisfied (6-7)

Avg. 0-10 Rating

46%

8.2

Very Satisfied (8)

Extremely Satisfied (9-10)

Q17. Thinking about the Wheeling Park District programs or events in which you or any household members recently attended, how would you rate your overall satisfaction?

64

Satisfaction with WPD Programs/Events

Verbatim Responses: Dissatisfaction With/Suggestions for Improving Programs and Events

“The lap swim pool. The amount of people entering and interfering the lap pools when they are not participating in lap swimming is much too high. Particularly adults who are exercising and feel the need to take up lap pool lanes.”

“The catalog is difficult to access.”

“Youth sports programs and after-care programs have really gone down hill over the past 20 years. I was really disappointed with kindergarten soccer and young child t-ball class. The children also seem out of control in after-care and the bus also drops off other students before taking them to the Park District facility, making for a long bus ride with little supervision. It sounds like there is bullying behavior on the bus, teachers/drivers that yell at the students regularly, etc. We liked the program much better when the children stayed at their respective schools.”

“Not able to participate in a Zumba class because I don't agree with instructor taking pictures and posting them on social media. Community events are extremely overcrowded, long lines. Need more activities.”

“Instructions on usage/availability of events.”

“I work full-time. I'd like to use the lap swimming pool after work, not before work, but it is rarely/never available in the evening. I'd love to participate in a fun program to meet people my own age (50-60) but the times I look through the program booklet, I don't see anything.”

“The indoor pool must have lifeguards at all times.”

“I have trouble with stairs and there are several stairs to climb to enter the Fitness Center. This was poor planning. There is not even a ramp which would make it a little easier to enter the fitness center. Not everyone who goes to the fitness center is in good shape.”

“I feel uncomfortable with COVID. I think swim lane reservations would be good. An off-leash dog park with trees would be good. My dog likes trees more than other dogs. I stopped going to the Buffalo Grove dog park because of a lack of trees. I go to Beck Lake dog park because of the trees and long paths. It is a 8-10 mile drive, so it would be nice to have a closer dog park.”

“Kids in Sharks (program) are treated like 2-year-olds, and most of the time they’re not swimming and just standing around. The teacher doesn't feel like pushing them and being straight about. She said that she is using play approach instead of making them swim laps. The previous teachers like Pete, Sophia and Eric did a great job and made sure kids actually were swimming and not just talking and playing games. Also, that teacher is continuously looking at the clock, and even if 5 minutes are left till the end of session, for those 5 minutes the kids will be just standing around.”

“Bring back fireworks near the church/Horizon Park.”

“An indoor facility will allow for more youth and adult sports to be offered during winter.”

65

120 Wheeling Park District | Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan

Appendix A

Satisfaction with WPD Programs/Events

Based on the overall average satisfaction for programs and events (8.5 on a 0-10 scale), youth programs tend to garner slightly below average ratings (except for pre-K/early childhood programs). Adult programs and community events tend to register higher scores.

Below Avg. (8.5) Satisfaction Summer camp

8.2

Swimming lessons

8.2

Youth sports lessons/clinics

Average (8.5) Satisfaction Personal fitness training

8.6

Above Avg. (8.5) Satisfaction Adult sports lessons/clinics

9.7

Adult arts and crafts

9.0

8.1

Fitness programs**

8.9

Adult sports/teams*

8.1

Swimming/aquatics

8.9

Youth sports/teams*

8.1

Outdoor Movies in the Park

8.8

Unplug in the Park

8.8

Preschool/Early childhood

8.8

Arts and crafts

7.9

Other swim/ aquatics

7.8

Golf

Youth program Adult program Community event

8.4

Ping pong/ Badminton

7.5

Active Adult/Seniors

8.8

Before/Afterschool

7.4

Adult pickleball lessons/leagues

8.7

Dance/ballet

7.3

Outdoor summer concerts

8.7

Youth golf

7.3

Community events***

8.7

* (e.g., soccer, softball, basketball, etc.) ** (e.g., yoga, spin, group classes) *** (e.g., Fallapalooza, Boonanza, Holiday Hoopla, Egg Scramble, etc.)

66

Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan | Wheeling Park District 121

Appendix A

VI. Needs Assessment: Programs and Events

67

Need/Interest in Programs/Events

Among the WPD programs and events tested, the broader community-wide options of outdoor summer concerts and movies, followed by weekend family events, garner the most interest overall. 

Women tend to be especially interested in these larger events (along with many other programs and activities, compared to men – see next pages). 





Outdoor summer concerts, movies

About one in five also express demand or interest in:

STEM/science programs





No more than 10% are interested in the remaining programs or events tested.

36%

Activities for active older adults

Nutrition/weight loss education

Nutrition and weight loss programs (again, especially women) STEM and science-related offerings (mostly younger adults, those with children, and Hispanic/ Latino residents) Swimming lessons (women, and younger households with children).

53%

Weekend family fests and events

Roughly a third are also interested in options for active older residents (especially the oldest and most long-term residents) and learning activities regardless of age (especially women and the youngest residents).





White adults tend to favor outdoor concerts and movies, while Latino/Hispanic households and younger adults (with children) most favor weekend festivals/events.

Program/Event Options of Interest/Need Among Residents (% “Yes”)

33%

Learning activities for all ages*

31% 22% 17%

Swimming lessons

15%

Specific sports training

10%

Youth fitness programs

9%

Unique athletic events

3%

None/no answer

22%

Q19A. Indicate if you or any household member uses or has a need or interest in the following programs or events. * (e.g., arts, cooking, computers)

122 Wheeling Park District | Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan

68

Appendix A

Need/Interest in Programs/Events

Significant Differences: Interest/Demand in Programs and Events

Overall

Most Likely to Express Interest/Need/Use

Outdoor summer concerts

53%

-

Women (59%, vs. 41% of men) East region (63%) White adults (59%) Homeowners (58%, vs. 43% of renters) Plan to live in Wheeling 6+ yrs. (58%)

Weekend family fests and events

36%

-

Women (44%, vs. 22% of men) Ages 35-44 (62%) Households with children (58%, vs. 29% of those without children) Hispanic/Latino residents (51%) Plan to live in Wheeling 6+ yrs. (40%)

Activities for active older adults

33%

-

Ages 65+ (59%) Lived in Wheeling 35+ yrs. (53%) Homeowners (39%, vs. 21% of renters)

Learning activities for all ages

31%

-

Women (40%, vs. 20% of men) Ages 35-44 (48%) Households with children (43%, vs. 28% of those without children) Plan to live in Wheeling 6+ yrs. (33%)

Nutritional/weight loss education

22%

-

Women (26%, vs. 17% of men) Plan to live in Wheeling 6+ yrs. (25%)

STEM/Science programs

17%

-

Ages 35-44 (39%) Households with children (41%, vs. 9% of those without children) Hispanic/Latino residents (26%) Renters (25%, vs. 13% of homeowners) Lived in Wheeling 5-9 yrs. (32%)

Swimming lessons

15%

-

Women (19%, vs. 8% of men) Ages 35-44 (39%) Households with children (34%, vs. 9% of those without children) Plan to live in Wheeling 6+ yrs. (17%)

69

Need/Interest in Programs/Events

Significant Differences: Interest/Demand in Programs and Events (cont’d)



Note that 78% of respondents identified at least one program or event of interest; only 22% did not respond or expressed no interest in these options.  

Men are most likely to report nothing of interest (cited by 30%, vs. just 17% of women), along with 27% of households without children.

Likewise, non-WPD park/facility users (48%) or non-program/event participants (38%) tended to feel this way.

However, significant numbers of non-participants (in the past year) still are interested in some of these opportunities (see below).

Overall

Most Likely to Express Interest/Need/Use

Specific sports training

10%

-

Youth fitness programs

9%

-

Ages 35-44 (30%) Households with children (31%, vs. 2% of those without children) Plan to live in Wheeling 6+ yrs. (11%)

Unique athletic events

3% -

Men (30%, vs. 17% of women) Non-WPD park/facility users (48%) Non-WPD program/event participants (38%, though 27% cite activities for older active adults, 32% cite outdoor concerts, and 21% are interested in weekend festivals)

None/no answer

22%

Ages 35-44 (26%) Households with children (23%, vs. 6% of those without children) Plan to live in Wheeling 6+ yrs. (12%)

< no statistically significant differences >

70

Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan | Wheeling Park District 123

Appendix A

Need/Interest in Programs/Events

Demand for larger community events – summer concerts and movies, and weekend festivals – is already being met among those interested in these activities. 

While interest in swimming lessons and youth fitness programs is lower overall, residents who express a need for those options likewise feel they are already available.



The biggest “gaps” or opportunities tend to be programs for active older adults, learning activities across all age groups, nutrition and weight-loss programs, and STEM/science programs.

100%

High Priority Needs

Meeting High Demand

Level of Demand

Demand (% Currently Using/Interested in Using)

80%

60%

Summer concerts/ movies

Low Priority Needs

40%

Learning activ. all ages

Activities for active older adults

Weekend events

Nutrition/ weight-loss 20% Unique athletic events 0%

0%

Swimming lessons

STEM/ science

Youth fitness Sports training

20%

Exceeding Demand

40%

60%

80%

100%

Degree of Meeting Demand/Needs Meeting Demand: % Saying Need is Mostly/Completely Being Met (scores of 4+ on a 1-5 scale)

71

Need/Interest in Programs/Events

Among the programs and events that residents feel warrant the top priority for the District, the most frequent response is “none/no answer” (28%) – indicating again that many of the activities in highest demand are already being delivered. 

Nearly one out of five want the District to continue focusing on outdoor summer concerts and movies (especially white adults), followed by:  



Weekend events and festivals, especially among ages 35-44, households with children, and Hispanic/Latino residents Activities for older active adults, mostly the oldest adults (ages 65+) and more established residents (homeowners, lived in Wheeling 35+ years).

Nine percent are in favor of more learning activities (with consistent responses across all age and demographic groups).

No more than 5% feel any of the remaining options are a #1 priority for the District.

Top Priority: Most Important Program/Event Option For WPD To Provide/Expand/Improve (n=400) Outdoor summer concerts, movies

19%

Weekend family fests and events

14%

Activities for active older adults

13%

Learning activities for all ages*

9%

STEM/science programs

5%

Naturitional/weight-loss programs Specific sports training Youth fitness programs

4% 3% 3%

Swimming lessons

2%

Unique athletic events

0%

None/no answer

28%

Q20. Which one of those programs or events should be the top priority for the Park District to provide, add, or improve? * (e.g., arts, cooking, computers)

124 Wheeling Park District | Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan

72

Appendix A

Need/Interest in Programs/Events

Significant Differences: Programs and Events - #1 Priority for Wheeling Park District

Overall

Most Likely to Cite as Top Priority

19%

-

White adults (22%) Plan to live in Wheeling 6+ years (21%)

Weekend family festivals and events

14%

-

Ages 35-44 (28%) Households with children (25%, vs. 10% of those without children) Other/multi-race residents (29% of non-white/non-Asian only adults) Hispanic/Latino residents (35%) Lived in Wheeling 5-9 yrs. (26%) Plan to live in Wheeling 6+ yrs. (15%)

Activities for active older adults

13%

-

Ages 65+ (32%) Homeowners (16%, vs. 6% of renters) Lived in Wheeling 35+ yrs. (30%)

Learning activities for all ages

9% 5%

-

Households with children (16%, vs. 1% of those without children) South region (17%)

Nutritional/weight-loss programs

4%

-

Women (7%, vs. 2% of men)

Specific sports training

3%

Youth fitness programs

3%

-

Asian-only residents (10%) Lived in Wheeling 5-9 yrs. (12%)

Swimming lessons

2%

-

Asian-only residents (10%) South region (9%)

Unique athletic events

0% -

Non-WPD park/facility users or visitors (53%) Non-WPD program/event participants (44%, with another 13% selecting activities for older active adults, 12% summer concerts/ movies, and 12% weekend festivals/events)

Outdoor summer concerts, events

STEM/Science programs

None/no answer

28%

< no statistically meaningful differences >

< no statistically meaningful differences >

< no statistically meaningful differences >

73

Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan | Wheeling Park District 125

Appendix A

VII. WPD Ranking Among Sources for Parks/Recreation/Fitness/ Programs

74

Local Sources for Recreation/Fitness

The WPD clearly ranks as the top source for adult recreation and fitness activities among local providers. Most (53%) cite it as their primary source, and virtually all respondents (83%) include it in their top 3.  Older adults and Hispanic/Latino households are most likely to include it among their top 3 sources (see next page).  Indian Trails Library is cited as a top 3 source by smaller majority (54%), usually ranked second after the Park District. It also tends to be mentioned by the oldest adults, along with white respondents.  County forest preserves is the third top source (mostly among those without children). Other providers are cited less often.

Top 3 Providers for Parks/Recreation/Fitness for Adults in Household (rank ordered) Wheeling Park District

53%

Indian Trails Library

13%

County Forest Preserves

14%

Private clubs (golf, fitness, yoga, etc.)

Private/public schools Homeowner's association/apartment complex

5%

29% 12% 10%

13%

12%

10%

= 83%

= 54%

= 39%

= 18%

6% 4%4% = 14% 4% = 9%

Youth sports programs

= 8%

Private instruction (dance, martial arts, etc.)

Something else

20%

#1 Provider

= 5% 6% 4% 6%

#2

#3

= 16% e.g., state parks/nature preserves, other nearby park district,

social organizations, etc.

Q28A. From the list below, please indicate the three providers that you and other adults in your household use most often for parks, recreation, and fitness programs or services. Please write “1” next to the most frequent provider, “2” for the second most frequent, and “3” for the third.

NOTE: Responses under 4% are not labeled.

126 Wheeling Park District | Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan

75

Appendix A

Local Sources for Recreation/Fitness

Significant Differences: Top Local Providers for Adults – Parks/Recreation/Fitness Programs and Services Most Likely to Include Among Top Three Sources

Most Likely to Cite as #1 Source 53% Overall

Wheeling Park District

83% Overall -

Ages 45-54 (94%), 65+ (90%) Hispanic/Latino residents (92%) Households with children (93%) Lived in Wheeling 35+ yrs. (91%) At least two-thirds (67%+) of all subgroups, except for non-WPD park/facility users (29%)

-

Ages 65+ (68%) White residents (59%) Lived in Wheeling 35+ yrs. (67%)

13% Overall

Indian Trails Library

54% Overall

14% Overall

County Forest Preserves

-

39% Overall

No children in household (18%, vs.

6% of those with children) 3% Overall

Private clubs (golf, fitness, yoga, etc.)

18% Overall -

Homeowners (23%, vs. 7% of renters)

-

Households with children (28%, vs. 8% of those without children)

6% Overall

Private or public schools

-

Homeowner’s association/apartment complex

Households with children (14%, vs.

2% of those without children)

14% Overall

2% Overall

9% Overall

76

Local Sources for Recreation/Fitness

Significant Differences: Top Local Providers for Adults – Parks/Recreation/Fitness Programs and Services (cont’d) Most Likely to Include Among Top Three Sources

Most Likely to Cite as #1 Source 2% Overall

8% Overall -

Youth sports programs

-

Private instruction (dance, martial arts)

1% Overall

Ages 45-54 (24%) Hispanic/Latino adults (18%) Other/multi-race residents (17% of nonwhite/non-Asian adults) Households with children (21%, vs. 3% of those without children) 5% Overall

77

Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan | Wheeling Park District 127

Appendix A

Local Sources for Recreation/Fitness

When asked about top local providers for youth recreation and programs, local schools edge out the Park District as the number one source, and even fewer mention Indian Trails Library as their top provider of youth activities.  Still, the vast majority of those with children include the WPD among their “top-3” providers for youth activities. Similarly, the Indian Trails Library is often seen as a secondary source (especially among those under age 35 – see next page).  About a third also include youth sports programs, followed by private instruction for youth activities.  These responses were generally consistent among respondents with children (few significant differences).

Top 3 Providers for Parks/Recreation/Fitness for Children Under 18 in Household (rank ordered among n=88 respondents with children) Wheeling Park District

37%

Indian Trails Library

10%

County Forest Preserves

7%

Private clubs (golf, fitness, yoga, etc.)

32% 30%

16%

14%

= 54%

4% 11%

= 56%

= 85%

= 10%

5% = 8%

Private/public schools

41%

Homeowner's association/apartment complex

= 3%

Youth sports programs

5%

16%

11%

Private instruction (dance, martial arts, etc.)

4%

19%

= 23%

Something else

= 32%

#1 Provider

#2

#3

= 6%

Q28B. [IF CHILDREN UNDER AGE 18 IN HOUSEHOLD]: For any children in your household (under age 18), please indicate in the right column the three most frequent providers for those children.

NOTE: Responses under 4% are not labeled.

78

Local Sources for Recreation/Fitness

Significant Differences: Top Local Providers for Youth – Parks/Recreation/Fitness Programs and Services  The few statistically meaningful differences by sources for youth events are shown below. All others (blank cells) have no significant differences.

Wheeling Park District

Indian Trails Library County Forest Preserves Private clubs (golf, fitness, yoga, etc.)

Private or public schools Homeowner’s association/apartment complex Youth sports programs Private instruction (dance, martial arts)

-

Most Likely to Cite as #1 Source

Most Likely to Include Among Top Three Sources

37% Overall

85% Overall

Ages 45-54 (61%) 10% Overall

54% Overall -

Under age 35 (78%)

1% Overall

10% Overall

3% Overall

8% Overall

41% Overall

56% Overall -

Central region (74%)

0% Overall

3% Overall

5% Overall

32% Overall

0% Overall

23% Overall

79

128 Wheeling Park District | Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan

Appendix A

Local Sources for Recreation/Fitness

More detailed responses regarding “other” sources for recreation and fitness are provided below. Among neighboring park districts and agencies, those in Buffalo Grove, Arlington Heights, and Prospect Heights are each cited more than once.  Those using private fitness facilities cite several different health clubs.

Other Sources for Recreation/Fitness/Activities (multiple open-ended responses, n of cases) Other park districts

22

Chicago Botanic Garden

6

State parks

3

Forest preserves

2

Private fitness/health clubs Trails/bike paths in general

Including: Park districts in general (n=7); Buffalo Grove PD (n=6), Arlington Heights/Lake Arlington (n=3), Prospect Heights (n=2); Northbrook, Mt. Prospect, Rolling Meadows, Glenview park districts (n=1 each)

11

Most often LA Fitness and NCH Fitness/Wellness Center (n=2 each); all others cited by n=1 each

3

80

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Appendix A

VIII. WPD Information Sources

81

WPD Sources of Information

By far, the District website is the “go-to” source for WPD information (cited by 75% overall, more than double the 35% mentioning it in 2015).  At least 43% of all subgroups report using the District website, with the highest responses coming from those ages 35 to 44 and households with children (see next page).  The District’s e-newsletter is the second top source (40%), mostly used by those living in the South region.  About one in five (22%) rely on word of mouth from friends and neighbors, especially Hispanic and Latino residents.  Nearly as many (19% each) also cite district signage and postings (especially white adults), and/or social media (especially women and residents with children).  Similarly, 18% call the WPD office or facility when seeking information.

WPD Information Sources Wheeling Park District's website

75%

Wheeling Park District e-newsletter

Word of mouth from family/friends/neighbors

40%

22%

Social media (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, etc.)

19%

Signage near/inside WPD facilities

19%

Call the main office or one of its facilities

18%

Other website

4% (e.g., Google search, ITL website, etc.)

Other source(s)

12% (e.g., local papers/Daily Herald, village newsletters, front desk or on-site WPD staff, etc.)

Q21. When you seek information about the Wheeling Park District and its programs, parks, facilities, or services, from what sources do you get that information?

130 Wheeling Park District | Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan

82

Appendix A

WPD Sources of Information

Significant Differences: WPD Information Sources

Top Responses

Cited Most Often By

WPD Website (75%)

-

Ages 35-44 (93%) Households with children (84%, vs. 74% of those without children) Plan to live in Wheeling 6+ yrs. (80%)

WPD e-newsletter (40%)

-

South region (56%) Plan to live in Wheeling 6+ yrs. (43%)

Word of mouth (22%)

-

Hispanic/Latino residents (31%) Homeowners (26%, vs. 13% of renters) Plan to live in Wheeling 6+ yrs. (25%)

Social media (19%)

-

Women (25%, vs. 10% of men) Households with children (34%, vs. 14% of those without children) Plan to live in Wheeling 6+ yrs. (20%)

Signage near/inside WPD facilities (19%)

-

White adults (22%)

Call main office or one of its facilities (18%)

-

Ages 45-44 (38%)

-

Lived in Wheeling <5 yrs. (9%)

< no statistically significant differences >

Other source(s) (12%) Other website (4%)

83

WPD Sources of Information

When asked which one is their preferred source of information about WPD offerings, a clear majority cite either the District website (54%) or e-newsletter (a distant second at 22%).  These responses are generally consistent among all subgroups, though women tend to rely more on the newsletter (27%) than men (16%).  Signage near or inside District facilities is exclusively cited by households without children (9%, vs. 0% of those with children).

Preferred Source for WPD Information

Wheeling Park District's website

54%

Wheeling Park District e-newsletter

Social media (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, etc.)

22%

7%

Other source

6%

Signage near or inside WPD facilities

6%

Call the main office or one of its facilities

3%

Word of mouth from family/friends/neighbors

3%

Q22. Please select your most preferred source when seeking information about the Park District.

84

Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan | Wheeling Park District 131

Appendix A

Satisfaction with WPD Website

WPD website users are generally satisfied with the site, especially the overall experience and the accuracy and timeliness of information.  They are slightly less happy with the ease of navigation and searching for desired information, and ease of program registration.  Consistent with other findings, these satisfaction scores tend to be highest among the oldest residents (ages 65+), and lower among more middle-aged adults ages 55 to 64 (see next page)

Satisfaction with Wheeling Park District Website (0-10 scale) Overall experience

6%

11%

20%

Providing accurate, updated information

6%

11%

17%

Ease of finding what you are looking for

10%

Ease of registering for programs/participation

9%

Dissatisfied (0-4)

Neutral (5)

9%

19%

23%

40%

19%

24%

14%

Somewhat Satisfied (6-7)

Avg. 0-10 Rating

47%

7.7

7.8

20%

37%

7.4

19%

39%

7.2

Very Satisfied (8)

Extremely Satisfied (9-10)

Q23. Thinking of your experience with the Wheeling Park District website, how would you rate your satisfaction in terms of…

85

Satisfaction with WPD Website

Significant Differences: Satisfaction with WPD Website

Lower than Avg. Ratings Overall experience with WPD website (Avg. 0-10 rating = 7.7) Providing accurate, updated information (avg. = 7.8) Ease of finding what you are looking for (avg. = 7.4)

Higher than Avg. Ratings -

Ages 65+ (8.1)

< no statistically significant differences > -

Ages 55-64 (6.8)

Ease of registering for programs/participation (avg. = 7.2)

-

Ages 65+ (7.9)

-

Ages 65+ (7.8)

86

132 Wheeling Park District | Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan

Appendix A

APPENDICES

87

88

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Appendix A

89

90

134 Wheeling Park District | Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan

Appendix A

91

92

Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan | Wheeling Park District 135

Appendix A

93

94

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Appendix A

95

Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan | Wheeling Park District 137

Appendix 1.0 B Introduction Full Engagement Summary 138 Wheeling Park District | Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan

Appendix B

INTRODUCTION

INTERNAL ENGAGEMENT

As part of Wheeling Park District PRCP, a great deal of public engagement was sought from the community. Working with the project team and Wheeling Park District’s Marketing and Communications team, Wheeling Park District’s logo was combined with the tagline “Imagine the Future of Parks and Recreation” utilizing Wheeling Park District’s branded color palette. This logo and tagline were used to promote the PRCP engagement. To reach as many people as possible, the Marketing and Communications team completed a significant amount of promotion.

Board of Commissioners and Steering Committee

The engagement for the Wheeling PRCP included: • Meetings with the Board of Park Commissioners, Wheeling Park District’s Steering Committee, and two large staff meetings.

• Meetings with key stakeholders (8).

The engagement kicked off with a meeting with the Board of Commissioners followed by Wheeling Park District Steering Committee, where attendees discussed strengths, challenges, ideas for park and program improvements, marketing and communication efforts, partnerships, underserved population segments, industry trends and implementing the PRCP. The Steering Committee included the following team members: • Jan Buchs, Executive Director • Matt Wehby, Deputy Director • Amy Rivas, Director of Administrative Services • Jim Waterson, Superintendent of Parks & Facility Maintenance

• Focus groups (4).

• BerryDunn-staffed tables at several Wheeling Park District events, including the Active Adult Expo (10/6), Boonanza (10/21), the Day of the Dead 5K Run/Walk Party (10/30), and the Thanksgiving Feast (11/20).

• BerryDunn-staffed tables during busy times at the recreation center, including the fitness lobby (10/14), outside of pickleball games and senior lunches (11/9), and in the gym lobby during youth programming (12/3).

• Engagement tables in the Recreation Center between events so that people could provide input independently and this turned out to be very successful.

• Staff time at several local locations to obtain feedback; these sites included Holmes Middle School, Rise and Dine Café, Jimenez Grocery, and the Korean Cultural Center of Chicago.

• Two Social Pinpoint tools (an ideas wall and a community forum) on Wheeling Park District’s website, allowing people an opportunity to provide feedback online.

• A statistically valid survey administered by aQity Research & Insights, Inc.; survey results are summarized in a separate, standalone report.

• Juan Carlos Acevedo, Superintendent of Marketing and Communications • Jeremy Turton, Chevy Chase Superintendent of Greens • Jennifer Sweeney, Superintendent of Recreation Programs • Katie Klemke, Superintendent of Recreation Facilities • Marc Sylvie, Trades Foreman WHEELING PARK DISTRICT STRENGTHS Wheeling Park District has a reputation for hiring motivated, highly driven staff members. Overall, staff are well organized, good teammates, solid planners, sharing a common vision, and track a good amount of participant and facility data. Wheeling Park District is in a strong financial position and its programs, events, and facilities attract a good number of nonresidents.

WHEELING PARK DISTRICT CHALLENGES Similar to parks and recreation agencies across the country—as well as all other types of industries—Wheeling Park District struggles to hire and retain qualified staff members for seasonal and part-time positions. The increased cost of goods and labor has made it difficult to continue to offer programs and services at a reasonable rate. Some facilities, specifically Chevy Chase and the outdoor pool, have aging infrastructure, which will be costly to maintain in the future. With the number of facilities, it has been difficult for staff to keep up with maintenance. Senior programming and congregate dining have been a challenge that will need addressing.

Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan | Wheeling Park District 139

Appendix B IDEAS FOR IMPROVING EXISTING PARKS OR

• Adding more real-time marketing to the mix

DEVELOPING NEW PARKS/FACILITIES

• Determining how to reach more people in apartment buildings because Wheeling Park District program guide is no longer mailed

Several ideas regarding park amenities were suggested by staff: • Updating existing pickleball courts and adding new courts in new location.

• Adding new amenities to existing parks such as spray grounds, bocce courts, fitness stations around the lake, a dog park, and a cricket pitch.

• Adding new facilities to the system, including a field house and an indoor ice rink.

SUGGESTIONS FOR FUTURE PROGRAMS AND SERVICES When discussing new program and service offerings with the staff, the following suggestions were made: • Cricket • Field hockey • DIY, lifelong learning classes • New indoor space to provide rental opportunities as well as indoor sports • Golf simulators at Chevy Chase to accommodate golfers in the winter months • New events at Chevy Chase that involve alcohol, such as art events MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS EFFORTS The Steering Committee believes Wheeling Park District has a talented Marking and Communications team that generally does a very good job marketing programs and services.

This group noted that many nonresidents take advantage of facilities, programs, and events, serving as evidence that marketing efforts are reaching many people.

Some suggestions were made for improvement: • Adding a kiosk in the lobby to provide an opportunity for people to interact with Wheeling Park District information • Reducing focus on the website and leveraging other avenues to market programs • Improving the timing of marketing with more advanced notice for some programs and events

• Doing a better job of telling Wheeling Park District story with all the programs, services, and facilities that are available to the community

Suggestions to Strengthen Wheeling Park District Partnerships or Create New Partnerships The Steering Committee agreed that Wheeling Park District was gaining traction with new partners prior to the COVID19 pandemic. Since that time, efforts have ceased. Although all agree it is an important need, there is not a position dedicated to this type of work. Some suggestions that were noted include: • Creating a nonprofit foundation—i.e., a 501(c)(3)—however, concern was noted regarding the recruitment and retention of suitable board members.

• Creating a relationship with the Town Center.

• Adding food trucks to events and building on that concept for future events.

• Creating stronger partnerships with other governmental agencies that involve staff at multiple levels, as staff noted frustration when only the leadership of agencies communicate, which makes it difficult at some Village events to know who is responsible.

Underserved Populations Wheeling Park District Should Target With Additional Outreach Some Steering Committee members admitted that they know underserved populations exist within Wheeling Park District, but they were not certain who they are. Two members noted the former Family Learning Program that was successful in the past but not currently. A couple of groups were noted as underserved: • Families in lower socioeconomic groups.

• Residents who do not speak English at home.

It was also noted that it was time to revamp the scholarship program, which can be cumbersome, and increase the marketing of this important program.

140 Wheeling Park District | Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan

Appendix B Industry Trends Wheeling Park District Should Consider for Future Service Delivery When discussing this topic, the Steering Committee suggested the following trends that should be considered in the future:

• Dog park • Basketball courts • Frisbee golf • Batting cages

• Equity for all Wheeling residents

• Fitness equipment stations

• Environmental programming

• Golf simulators at Chevy Chase

• New health and wellness activities

Improvements at Existing Parks

• Electrical access for electric vehicles

• Improve park signage and wayfinding

STAFF MEETINGS The BerryDunn consulting team met with two groups of staff, including 49 people from all levels of the organization.

The discussions were thoughtful and focused on four specific questions: 1. In the next five years, what ideas do you have for improvements, changes, or additions to Wheeling Park District’s parks and facilities?

• Complete unfinished projects throughout the park system • Improve the outdoor ice rink • Add more parking, especially at park sites with shelters • Add storage at athletic fields • Improve the pavilion with better restroom facilities at the performance space

2. Are there any programs Wheeling Park District should offer that are currently not being offered?

• Add trash compactors at park sites

3. What are the biggest challenges facing Wheeling Park District in the next five years?

New Parks and Facilities

4. Thinking about how critical recruitment and retention will be, what ideas do you have for Wheeling Park District to be able to recruit and retain the best staff?

The results of the two meetings have been combined to create this summary:

Improvements, Changes, or Additions to Wheeling Park District Parks and Facilities This question generated significant conversation and ideas from staff. The responses have been organized into new amenities at existing parks, improvements at existing parks, new parks and facilities, upgrades to the Community Recreation Center, ideas for the Family Aquatic Center, and renovations at Chevy Chase Country Club. Additional storage was noted as a need in several locations, including parks, the Community Recreation Center, the athletic field complex, and Chevy Chase Country Club.

Several staff mentioned the development of the property on Lake Cook that includes a small lake with a path, fishing, boating, and, possibly, a nature center. The other popular comment regarding new facilities was the addition of an indoor sports complex with turf fields. Staff also suggested adding a playground near Chevy Chase Country Club

Community Recreation Center Upgrades There was a good amount of discussion regarding the Community Recreation Center, especially about increased parking. Other suggestions included: • Increased parking and improved traffic flow • Updates to the indoor pool – more amenities for children • Additional water fountains outdoors near the preschool playground • Renovations to the stage • A new space for teens

New Amenities at Existing Parks Staff made the following suggestions for adding new amenities at existing parks, with the most popular comment being the addition of a dog park:

• Repurposing rooms with capacity (potentially fitness) for new programs

Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan | Wheeling Park District 141

Appendix B Family Aquatic Center

Teen/Preteen

Staff mentioned the need to update the filtration system and current amenities. A lazy river was suggested specifically as a new amenity.

Everyone agreed that more is needed for the teen/preteen group, but no one is certain what this group seeks. Several suggested a dedicated space, such as a skate park or ice rink, would address some teen needs. Other suggestions included:

Chevy Chase Country Club There was a great deal of discussion regarding this aging Wheeling Park District facility and the many needs that exist:

• Babysitting certification • Mentorship or life coaching

• Renovations to the foundation, patio, grounds, and kitchen

• Sign language

• Upgrades to the audio-visual equipment

• Parkour classes

• New roof

• Frisbee golf, disc golf, putting leagues

• Adding a driving range

Adult

• Adding more restrooms on the course

Suggestions for new adult programs included:

• Better location for the cart barn

• Photography classes

New Programs Staff had many ideas for new programs Wheeling Park District could offer in the future, following the addition of more parking at the Community Recreation Center. More variety appears to be desired such as offering classes with a short time commitment (one or two class sessions) for art, science, or cooking (any age). Staff also suggested that some programs be offered in another language besides English (possibly Spanish) to see if that could meet a need. Program suggestions are organized into five categories: youth, preteen/teen, adult, seniors, and families.

Youth Child care for young children while their parents are using the fitness center or taking a group exercise class was suggested by several staff. A staff-only child care program was also mentioned. A day care program or extension of preschool appears to also be a need in the community. Other program suggestions for youth included: • Cooking classes at Chevy Chase • Theatre classes • Gaming/eSports • Coding/STEAM • Adding a recital to the dance program

• More dance classes such as ballroom • English as a second language classes • Self-defense • More golf lessons (couples, nine and dine) and moonlight golf events • Basketball leagues • Guest speakers to present on financial planning, investing, healthcare, etc.

Seniors No specific programs were suggested for seniors, but it was mentioned several times that more innovative offerings are needed for this population.

Families New program suggestions for families included more events, more family fitness programs, and a larger space for the birthday parties.

Challenges Facing Wheeling Park District in the Next Five Years Staff noted many challenges they expect Wheeling Park District will face in the next five years. The biggest concern is staffing, including concerns about: • Recruiting and hiring: Good staff are difficult to find and keep.

142 Wheeling Park District | Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan

Appendix B • Keeping up with increasing pay rates while keeping program costs reasonable.

• Retaining good staff and reducing the rate of turnover/ the amount of time and resources invested in training.

• Supporting staff dealing with mental health issues.

• Benefits: Staff demographics are changing, and there is a notion that benefits should align with need (not everyone has a spouse or children, and Wheeling Park District should adjust how it views a household and provide benefits accordingly).

• The need to provide a safe space to share feedback. There is a perception that Wheeling Park District is divided, staff do not communicate effectively with each other, and kindness is missing.

Culture To improve the current culture, staff would like to see: • More teamwork • Better follow-through on promises • More positive feedback and less negative feedback • Enhanced communication • More appreciation • Bridging the divide between newer staff and more experienced Wheeling Park District staff • Improved work-life balance by hiring more staff to accommodate staff vacation time

• The language barrier: Some staff mentioned the desire to learn Spanish to communicate more effectively with residents who speak Spanish.

Orientation, Training, Continuing Education, and Advancement

Additional challenges Wheeling Park District will face include:

• A more effective orientation program that includes more information on all departments

• Funding, the cost of supplies, keeping up with aging facilities, and the possibility of a recession.

To address this area of concern, staff desire:

• Relevant, job-specific training

• The ability to continue providing programming at reasonable prices (with increasing staffing and supply costs).

• Continuing education to prepare staff for new positions and potentially increase staff retention

• Potential growth in the community with the new development; more people to serve.

• More advancement opportunities

• Keeping up with resident expectations; staying competitive and innovative in the parks and recreation industry while trying to improve programs, facilities, and services overall. Maintaining existing levels of service while attempting to create new.

• Climate change and taking care of natural outdoor spaces.

• Revising the current scholarship program to better meet the needs of those who are underserved.

• Rising child care needs in the community and the increase in cost for these services.

• The unknown; what’s the next virus?

Ideas for Staff Recruitment The conversation regarding staff recruitment was robust and centered around several key topics: the current culture; orientation, training, continuing education, and advancement; wages and benefits; and how Wheeling Park District could enhance recruiting efforts.

• A solid sense of job security

Competitive Wages and Benefits Staff suggested a need to keep up with the private sector by learning what it is doing differently and incorporating those findings into Wheeling’s pay and benefits structure.

Suggestions included: • Enhanced benefits, such as revisions to how one can earn vacation time and the option to exchange money for health insurance benefits not taken (cafeteria style).

• The opportunity to earn bonuses and incentives (for helping recruit new staff members).

• A more flexible work environment, creating flexibility, where possible, within the organization (knowing that this is not an option for all).

• Child care for staff; with the cost of private day care on the rise, some staff would like to see Wheeling Park District provide a child care option just for staff.

Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan | Wheeling Park District 143

Appendix B Suggestions to Improve Recruiting Efforts This conversation included the need to enhance relationships with local high schools and colleges for recruiting and participating in existing college fairs. There was a suggestion to learn more about what younger generations want out of work to create more buy-in. There is frustration that once young people are trained, they only stay for a year or two.

EXTERNAL ENGAGEMENT The external engagement for the PRCP included stakeholder meetings, focus groups, and a BerryDunn table at a series of events. Online Social Pinpoint tools were also added to Wheeling Park District’s website to collect feedback.

Stakeholder Meetings The BerryDunn team met with eight stakeholders. BerryDunn defines a stakeholder as a current or former leader in the community, a business owner, those involved in service organizations, or a heavy user of Wheeling Park District programs and services. All stakeholders were asked the following seven questions: 1. What does Wheeling Park District do well; what do you want to ensure continues?

2. What challenges do you feel the community of Wheeling will face over the next five to 10 years?

3. What challenges do you feel Wheeling Park District will face over the next five years?

4. Do you have any ideas for new partnerships that Wheeling Park District should pursue?

5. Are there underserved segments of the community where Wheeling Park District needs to provide additional outreach?

6. What is Wheeling Park District’s brand and image in the community?

7. Do you have anything else to share about Wheeling Park District to assist us with their comprehensive plan?

What Wheeling Park District Does Well All stakeholders concurred that Wheeling Park District provides a wide variety of programs, facilities, and events that are well received by the community as well as nonresidents. Customer service was also noted as being a strength.

Wheeling Park District staff treat customers very well, and

they are receptive to feedback, forward thinking, and very adaptable, as evidenced during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Family Aquatic Center was noted as one of the best aquatic facilities in the area, employing exceptional lifeguards. Other strengths included the well-maintained park grounds and recent updates to playgrounds.

Community Challenges Stakeholders expressed concern over the increase in violence at the local schools and rising behavioral issues potentially due to poor mental health. Community growth and changing demographics were also discussed at length.

Along with cultural diversity, household income was also mentioned, as not all can afford programs or summer pool passes. The scholarship program was noted as an important program that could possibly be enhanced and improved.

There is a desire to protect those in the community who are the most vulnerable and to continue being inclusive.

Business leaders at the stakeholder meetings discussed concerns about being able to keep local, family-owned businesses open. With low income levels, difficulty in hiring good part-time staff and running a business can be difficult.

The last challenge discussed was the traffic on Dundee Road near the railroad tracks. One stakeholder noted concern about work that is planned on Milwaukee Avenue (five to seven years out) and how that will impact the traffic on Dundee.

Wheeling Park District Challenges Like the Board of Park Commissioners, the Steering Committee, and the two staff focus groups, stakeholders shared their concerns regarding staffing issues and how difficult it is to hire and retain good staff members.

There was conversation that Wheeling Park District staff need to be more involved throughout the community and that more coordination between agencies is necessary. There is a perception that it can be difficult to obtain access to the outdoor athletic field complex as well as the school fields.

The current and former board members have concerns that it will be difficult to attract future board members. In addition, they fear that the most vulnerable in the community, those with a lack of disposable income, cannot participate in Wheeling Park District programs or utilize facilities.

144 Wheeling Park District | Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan

Appendix B Ideas for New Partnerships Wheeling Park District stakeholders would like to renew partnerships with the following Wheeling organizations:

center user, and two parents with children enrolled in the after-school care program, summer camps, and other youth programs.

Following introductions, focus group participants answered the following questions:

• Chamber of Commerce • Local municipalities, including the Village and all the school districts: Although there are some current agreements, this group would like to see enhanced cooperation and collaboration.

• Cook County Forest Preserve: This organization was suggested as a partner to develop the Milwaukee property and enhance trail connections throughout the community.

1. What Wheeling Park District programs or facilities do you or your family utilize?

2. What does Wheeling Park District do well; things you would like to see continued?

3. Do you have improvements?

comments

about

needed

facility

• Local businesses: This group would like to see more local vendors to participate in Wheeling Park District events.

Wheeling Park District may need to make participation more affordable to attract more vendors.

4. Are there any park improvements you feel are needed?

Any ideas for new amenities or new parks?

Underserved Segments of the Community

6. Based on what you know and hear from others, what is Wheeling Park District’s brand and image in the community?

Like all the staff groups, stakeholders mentioned the following underserved populations that required more outreach: • Preteens and teens • Residents who do not speak English as a first language

5. Are there any programs you would like to see that are currently not offered?

7. Any ideas about how Wheeling Park District can improve its marketing of programs and services?

• Seniors

8. Are there any segments of the community that are underserved who would benefit from additional outreach?

• Families

9. Additional comments?

Wheeling Park District Brand and Image

Program Utilized

Overall, stakeholders noted that Wheeling Park District has a very positive brand and image. Some noted that more promotion is needed, as pockets of residents are not aware of the breadth of what is available.

The parents participating in the focus groups have enrolled their children in many Wheeling Park District programs over the years, including preschool, after care, summer camps, basketball, dance, gymnastics, t-ball, pickleball, and swim lessons. They complimented several areas, including staff, the cost of programs, the level of competition in the youth sports, and the level of engagement during summer camps.

Their families have also attended many of Wheeling Park District’s events and have always been pleased. One of the attendee’s daughters was a camp counselor this past summer and had a very positive experience.

Additional Comments A couple of stakeholders noted the need for creating more opportunities for community conversations, possibly Wheeling Park District forums where residents could come and discuss community issues.

Focus Groups Although Wheeling Park District staff worked hard to fill up the five focus groups scheduled for November, they did not have much success. A total of 29 people were invited, with only six people participating. No Village leaders could participate and only one representative from School District #21 attended. Other participants included a library board member, a nonresident who rents athletic field space, a fitness

The fitness participant has been a member of the center for 15 years and praised Wheeling Park District facilities, parks, and programs. She has also been a participant on trips and attended senior events. She noted her high satisfaction with the level of maintenance of facilities and the cost of programs and services. She noted the Thanksgiving Feast might provide some families their only holiday meal.

Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan | Wheeling Park District 145

Appendix B Wheeling Park District Successes

New Program Ideas

When asked what Wheeling Park District does well, focus group members noted the following:

The main topic of discussion regarding new program ideas centered on what to offer 30- to 40-year-old adults. The perception from the group is that Wheeling Park District offers several programs for adults that include alcohol, but some would like a different focus. Ideas included crocheting, drawing, knitting, and ways for parents of young children to connect with other parents to network.

• Staff – they are wonderful, friendly, and patient • Summer camps – highly sought after and fill up quickly • Youth sports – short season and not too competitive • Before- and after-school care – popular program for resident families • Family Aquatic Center – the lifeguards are the best; they love to watch the staff conduct drills, and they appreciate that the staff take control of children who misbehave

Fitness classes were also discussed. There is a sense that many classes are too crowded, which poses a safety hazard.

Setting more stringent class size limits and adhering to those limits was suggested. New class suggestions included: • Yoga (daytime)

• Athletic fields are great (soccer, baseball, softball) as are the newly installed playground and landscaping throughout Wheeling Park District

• Pilates (daytime)

• Facility maintenance is very good, as they are clean and well-maintained

• Spin class

• The fees for programs and fitness membership are affordable (a bargain).

• Barre class

• Tai chi • Kettlebell class • Additional pump classes (morning and evening)

Needed Facility Improvements Focus group participants discussed and complimented recent improvements/renovations to the Community Recreation Center. The following facility issues were noted: • There is no plumbing on the second floor of the new addition.

• More indoor seating is needed.

• The water pressure is low in all the drinking fountains.

• The new portion of the Community Recreation Center is not user-friendly for people with disabilities.

• The indoor pool is not ideal for water walking (too shallow) and needs an update.

• In the locker rooms, add non-skid mats, reinstate the locker rentals, repair combination locks that are too sensitive.

Needed Park Improvements There was some good discussion about park improvements focus group attendees would like to see in the future.

Improved parking and better traffic flow at the Community Recreation Center campus was noted most often and the most significant issue that requires attention.

Additional program suggestions included: • Youth baseball, softball, and flag football (providing instructional leagues so that resident children not in travel sports can access Wheeling Park District sports complex) • Friday night events for middle school children (open gym, dance room, activity room) • Adult volleyball

Wheeling Park District Brand and Image When asked about the brand and image of Wheeling Park District, there was a mixture of responses). According to a part-time fitness employee, Wheeling Park District has been their best employer. Many programs and facilities have very positive reputations in the community and surrounding towns, including the renovations at the Community Recreation Center, the Family Aquatic Center, and summer day camp. There were positive comments about the new holiday decorations (“gorgeous”). A couple of people noted that a brand was missing, and more advertising was needed.

146 Wheeling Park District | Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan

Appendix B Marketing Ideas

Additional Comments

Focus group attendees suggested many improvements to Wheeling Park District marketing. The parents with children in programs complained about the registration system and how difficult it is to manipulate. At times, it can be so frustrating that they opt to register in person. Although they understand the reasons that the guide is not being printed, they miss it.

Focus group attendees also made the following closing comments:

One focus group member, an avid user of the fitness center, said marketing is one of Wheeling Park District’s weakest areas. From their perspective, improvements are necessary to inform and retain members and attract new members.

They suggested the following for improvements: • Prepare fitness instructors to announce and promote other programs and events at the end of class.

• The Chevy Chase Country Club online system is not userfriendly and hard to follow for seniors.

• Wheeling Park District does a great job taking care of the community.

Event Table BerryDunn staffed a table at several Wheeling Park District events: The Active Adult Expo (10/6), Boonanza (10/21), the Day of the Dead 5K Run/Walk Party (10/30), and The Thanksgiving Feast (11/20). asking two simple questions: 1. What new programs would you like to see?

• Continue to post banners in the hallways at the Community Recreation Center.

2. What changes would you like to see at Wheeling Park District?

• Increase collaboration between the part-time fitness instructors and Wheeling Park District.

Sticky notes and pens were available for people to share either a new program idea or changes they would like to see.

In addition to the events, the table was staffed during busy times at the Recreation Center, including the fitness lobby (10/14), outside of pickleball classes and senior lunches (11/9), and in the gym lobby during youth programming (12/3). Staff left the engagement information up in the Recreation Center between dates so that people could provide feedback independently, which turned out to be very successful.

• Create a space and time for part-time fitness instructors to meet and collaborate and provide information to promote each other’s classes.

• Include exterior signage regarding fitness opportunities.

• Add a suggestion box at the fitness reception desk.

• Reinstate the member of the month program.

Underserved Segments of the Community When discussing potential underserved segments of the community who could benefit from additional outreach, the importance of the scholarship program was noted. There were also comments about the need to continue to diversify the makeup of Wheeling Park District staff and have more staff who are bilingual (a school representative said 67 languages are spoken in Wheeling households). A suggestion was made to keep a list of all of the languages that staff speak aside from English and provide to the front desk if translation is needed. The underserved groups noted that might require more outreached included:

This engagement effort culminated in 542 suggestions over the course of 12 weeks. All the feedback was organized into the following categories: • Comments/Questions (5) • Compliments (9) • New Amenities (88) • New Programs (257) • Suggestions (183) Each category was further divided to better analyze the information. A full listing of all the comments at the event table is included in Appendix A.1.

• Hispanic residents • Preteens and teens • Adults with children • Young moms with toddlers • LBTIQA+ community members

New Program Suggestions The most popular type of new program suggested was for fitness classes (49), water exercise classes (14), mind/body classes (11) and yoga (8), for a total of 82. New sports program suggestions followed fitness with 50 suggestions. Trip suggestions rounded out the top three with 19 ideas.

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Appendix B Fitness Classes

• Miscellaneous suggestions (21)

The most popular fitness class suggested was additional Body Pump classes in the evenings (9), followed by more HIIT classes (Spin, Body Pump) on Thursday evening with Jayce or Sheldon (8). Many of the comments specify desired classes at a very specific day and time.

• Hours and scheduling (20) • Indoor pool (12) • Locker rooms (38) • Open gym (4)

Water Exercise

• Parking (27)

Overall, participants want more water exercise classes in the morning (6), specifically Aqua Zumba (4).

• Pickleball (4)

Mind/Body Classes For mind/body classes, there is interest in tai chi during the day or in the evening (8).

• Community Recreation Center (21)

Locker Rooms

Several types of yoga were mentioned including gentle (1), mommy and me (3), and chair (1). There is also interest in another yoga class with Carole on Friday evening (3)

The most frequently made suggestion about the locker rooms was the lack of hot water in the showers (11), followed by the desire for suit spinners in the member and family locker rooms (4), lockers for rent in the member locker room (4), and returning a good scale to the women’s locker room (4).

Sports

Parking

Yoga

The new sports program suggested included volleyball; youth instruction, adult league, and more open gyms (13); tennis offerings (6); badminton (4); and several pickleball suggestions (pickleball lessons, drills for intermediate players, and advanced pickleball). Several youth sports were suggested, including basketball, lacrosse, soccer, gymnastics, and dodgeball.

Trips Most trip suggestions were for senior trips to many different locations, including Christkindl market, Cantigny, the Chicago History Museum, winery tours, White Fence Farm, Long Grove Confectionary, Skokie Performing Arts Center, and a Chicago architectural boat trip. The family trip suggestion included canoe/kayak day trips.

General Suggestions All 183 general suggestions have been organized in the following categories: • Events (3) • Fees and charges (4) • Fitness center (12) • Fitness equipment (17)

In addition to more parking desired (23), there was a suggestion for more directional signage (2), more handicapped spots (1), and more parking lot lighting (1).

Community Recreation Center A wide variety of suggestions were made regarding the Recreation Center, with the most popular renovation of the indoor track (4), returning the morning coffee (3), and having more food/vending options available (3).

Miscellaneous Suggestions Miscellaneous suggestions included better bus for trips (5), followed by more competitive pay (3) and better/more marketing (2).

New Amenities The 88 suggestions for new amenities were categorized into the following: • Indoor pool (14) • New facilities (22) • Outdoor pool (4) • Park amenities (33) • Recreation Center (15)

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Appendix B Park Amenities

• Increasing the temperature of the indoor pool (2)

Top suggestions for new park amenities included community gardens (5), a dog park (3), and additional basketball courts (3).

• Having food for sale (1)

New Facilities

• Offering child care at the fitness center.

A new ice skating rink was the top suggestion for new facilities (13), followed by a dedicated senior space (6) and an indoor soccer arena (2).

Jimenez Grocery

Recreation Center A sauna was the top suggestion for new amenities at the Recreation Center (4), followed by more indoor pickleball courts (2) and facility updates to the second floor (2).

Staff Outreach During December 2022, Wheeling Park District staff conducted in-person outreach at several locations, seeking input from a variety of residents who may not be users of Wheeling Park District programs and services. Some of this input was provided in Spanish and Korean and was translated by Wheeling Park District staff for this report. These locations included:

• Providing more discounts for Wheeling residents (1) and less expensive gymnastics classes (1)

A great deal of feedback was gathered at this location, with new program suggestions being popular. Several people requested programs taught in Spanish (dance), translating the guide into Spanish, and Spanish instruction for kids.

Other suggestions included: • Dance: more ballet (for 2-year-olds), ballroom, salsa, bachata, rumba, and merengue • More gymnastics, cheer classes, and health and wellness for young kids • Theatre for kids and guitar classes • More Zumba, Zumba taught in Spanish, and later group exercise classes

• Holmes Middle School – December 12 and 14 at 7 p.m.

• More opportunities for kids aged 10 to 13, specifically basketball

• Jimenez Grocery – December 30 at 1 p.m.

• For adults, English as a second language, and knitting.

• Korean Cultural Center of Chicago – December 30 at 4:30 p.m.

Some shoppers indicated their love of Unplug at the Park, and suggested more concerts (in Spanish), a Spanish movie night, and a Taste of Wheeling with small businesses.

Holmes Middle School The most popular suggestions from the outreach conducted at the middle school revolved around additional programming for children: • Dance, boxing, singing, basketball, and English classes

Korean Cultural Center of Chicago The people who mentioned the Korean Cultural Center were looking for more diverse programs that teach people about different cultures. Other requests included:

• More opportunities for those in fifth grade and up

• Adult painting, ceramics, knitting, sewing, and cooking (for men)

• Family activities

• Youth music and choir

The addition of several events was also suggested:

• More Pilates and Zumba classes

• “Posadas” (the Spanish word for “inn,” which refers to Joseph and Mary’s search for refuge on their way to Bethlehem before the birth of baby Jesus) (3)

• Tennis, ping pong, and more pickleball (daytime, nighttime, and weekends)

• Mariachi events and Mexican traditions (3) • Day of the Dead Festival (1) Miscellaneous suggestions included:

• Drop-in Go Game (Korean chess) • English classes For events, suggestions included Korean food with K-pop and a lunar new year event.

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Appendix B

SOCIAL PINPOINT Two Social Pinpoint tools, an ideas wall and community forum, were embedded in Wheeling Park District’s website from October 6, 2022, through December 31, 2022. A total of 102 people submitted 174 comments. The wall, which garnered 154 comments, included: 1. Tell us about your experience at Wheeling parks. (12)

• “I would like to see an outdoor soccer field/football field because gym two gets reserved for soccer every day and people wo want to play basketball can’t play.” (10 up votes).

There were also five different comments regarding the need to improve the parking at the Community Recreation Center, with a total of 19 up votes and 7 down votes.

2. What changes would you like to see at Wheeling Park District? (74)

What New Programs Would You Like to See Offered?

3. What new programs would you like to see offered? (50)

Suggestions for new programs included ideas for youth, adults, and seniors. The most popular comments included:

4. What’s great about Wheeling Park District? (15) Many of the comments included multiple ideas incorporated into this summary.

The community forum asked participants to answer the following question: What is your vision for Wheeling Park District in five years? A total of 20 people responded to the question.

In addition to providing comments, participants could vote up or down vote the comments of others. A full listing of the Social Pinpoint comments is included in Appendix A.2.

Ideas Wall What Changes Would You Like to See at Wheeling Park District?

A total of 74 suggestions were provided for the following question: What changes would you like to see at Wheeling Park District? Popular topics included renovations to the aquatic facilities (indoors and outdoors), more events, additional fitness equipment, and new programming ideas. The comments receiving the most up votes included: • “I don’t like the idea of both basketball courts/gyms being reserved at the same time. I would like to suggest that only one of the basketball courts be reserved and leave the other one for people who want to play basketball.” (17 up votes).

• “There are signs at every park no dogs on the playground and every time I go to the park there is always the entitled person who thinks everyone wants to play with their dog!

Wish we could do something about it!” (11 up votes/17 down votes).

• “What about an area for a little dog park at Heritage? I walk my dog there all the time and see many other dogs there as well.” (11 up votes/2 down votes).

• “Revive community theatre for adults and children.”

(15 up votes/1 down vote).

• “I would love for Wheeling Park District to create a dog park.” (12 up votes/6 down votes).

• “Community theatre (plays and/or musicals) for people of all ages, including adults!” (11 up votes/2 down votes).

Group fitness class comments were popular (27 up votes/10 down votes), with the suggestion for boxing garnering the most response (7 up votes/3 down votes). Four comments were made for more water fitness classes, specifically the early morning weekday classes and Aqua Zumba (7 up votes/2 down votes). New fitness classes for seniors were also mentioned (yoga and meditation). A wider variety of classes and more for those who work during the day were suggested.

There were four separate comments (22 up votes/3 down votes) regarding the need for new adult programming, including art, pottery, cooking, dancing, book clubs, and programs offered outside of traditional working hours.

Organized meetups for people to walk together around Heritage Park at various times (3 up votes/1 down vote) and opportunities for community gardening and composting are of interest (2 up votes).

There appears to be interest in offering organized sports leagues for young children, such as baseball, basketball, soccer, and volleyball travel teams, as well as a swim team (8 up votes/2 down votes). More tot swim lessons (3 up votes/2 down votes) and bringing back the old swim lesson structure (4 up votes/1 down vote) were all noted.

Pickleball was also a popular topic in regard to new program ideas, including evening time slots (8 up votes/1 down vote), more pickleball options (5 up votes/1 down vote), and the addition of dedicated indoor courts (5 up votes/2 down votes).

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Appendix B At Chevy Chase Country Club, there is a desire for more golf lessons, a driving range, and golf simulators (5 up votes/2 down votes) as well as opening up the course to cross-country skiing in the winter (3 up votes/1 down vote).

What’s Great About Wheeling Park District?

Ideas wall contributors appreciate staff at all levels (4 up votes), appreciate the events and concerts that Wheeling Park District produces (8 up votes), enjoy the facilities and the parks (6 up votes/1 down vote), and love the pickleball options (5 up votes/1 down vote).

Tell Us About Your Experience at Wheeling Parks Some noted concerns about safety at Heritage Park (8 up votes/3 votes down) and the level of litter in parks and trails (7 up votes/1 down vote). Someone suggested volunteer cleanup efforts were needed, with a comment that staff should be cleaning up because parks are funded by taxes (8 up votes). Frustration was noted regarding slow progress at Childerly park (4 up votes).

The parking at the Community Recreation Center was noted twice in this category, especially the lack of parking and the poor lighting (16 up votes/1 down vote).

A couple of people noted their satisfaction with water aerobics classes (7 up votes/1 down vote) with the added comment that more classes are needed during the day for seniors and the need for more equipment.

Community Forum The community forum asked participants the following question: What is your vision for Wheeling Park District in five years? A total of 20 comments were made; like the ideas wall, once a comment was posted, other people could up or down vote. Some of the most popular comments on the community forum included:

Districts that offer more but price some of us out by not even partnering with Wheeling Park District to offset nonresident costs. If you don’t have the tax money coming in from all those unsightly rentals do more for the residents of Wheeling long term and advocate for similar equity in services, classes, and teams for our children who live here.” (14 up votes).

• “Would love to see separate bike lanes at Heritage Park.

As I walk on the path, there have been several times I was almost hit from behind by bicyclists trying to maneuver between walkers/dogs.” (6 up votes).

• “I envision Wheeling Park District revamping its aquatics programs, most importantly the swim lessons. There has been much inconsistency due to the sudden change in the swim lesson program. It feels as if it just swept up the previous problems of the prior program under the rug and piled up more problems. Plus, the gym got a new touch-up, so the pools should get one as well! Re-do the locker rooms outdoors and add a family one as well. Don’t ignore the pools – please renovate them!” (6 up votes).

• “Aquatics needs remodeling. It’s almost as if Wheeling Park District neglects aquatics. It hasn’t been updated in so long, yet the fitness center and preschool all got new facilities. I am thankful for my memberships, but I want the quality of what I pay for. There needs to be better area cleaning at the indoor pool (floors, deck, pool, office). The indoor pool just looks so sad and plain. The swim lesson banners are the only thing giving the place color. Staff is super nice!” (5 up votes).

• “Although the gym was redone recently, I believe it needs a refresh. The equipment is laid out poorly, there are not enough weight plates to go around during busy periods, and equipment needs maintenance more frequently. I think the price increase that was instituted due to Covid needs to be revisited as well. I think the path out in Heritage Park needs to be redone as it is very uneven and showing signs of breakdown.” (5 up votes/10 down votes).

• “I would love to see that our Wheeling Park District is as enriched and serviced as surrounding communities. It is quite sad that we are so close to other Wheeling Park

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Appendix B

APPENDIX B.1: IN-PERSON ENGAGEMENT COMMENTS COMMENT/QUESTION – (TOTAL OF 5 RESPONSES))

NEW AMENITY – OUTDOOR POOL (TOTAL OF 4 RESPONSES)) • Add lazy river – 2

• Sandpebble condos need residential rates – 1

• Slide that can fit an inner tube for 2 – 1

• When is Childerly Park opening? - 1

• Enlarge the outdoor water park – 1

• Why is filming on tripods allowed on the gym floor? – 1

NEW AMENITY – PARK AMENITIES (TOTAL OF 33

• I would like people to pick up their dog waste – 1

RESPONSES))

• I belong to the Frisbee, and they provide a lot of opportunities – 1

• Need a trail-based workout – 1 • Community garden – 5

COMPLIMENTS – (TOTAL OF 9 RESPONSES))

• Composting Options – 2

• Great membership option for NR – 1

• Add 2 outdoor basketball courts – 3

• I live in Buffalo Grove, and I love Wheeling Park District so much more! – 1

• Add a skate park – 2

• Nothing to add – Wheeling Park District is perfect! – 1 • Allah is great! – 1 • Great Event! Boonanza – 1 • Whatever you are doing, keep it up. Fantastic group! – 1 • Everything is great! – 1 • It is perfect! Well done! Thank you! – 1 • I live in Buffalo Grove, but I come to Wheeling Park District with my family – good prices, new facility – 1 NEW AMENITY – INDOOR POOL (TOTAL OF 14

• Adaptive Playground – 1 • Add more bike paths – 1 • Cross Country Ski Course – 1 • Outdoor lighted courts – 2 • Go karts – 1 • Parks court – 1 • More sophisticated park amenities for teens/adults – 2 • More bathrooms – 1 • Add an obstacle course – 1

RESPONSES))

• Create bike lane on outdoor path – 2

• Warm water therapy pool – 3

• Dog park – 3

• Steam room – 2

• A bigger park – 1

• Add hot tub – 7

• Cricket Pitch – 1

• Add something new to the indoor pool – 1

• Better Playgrounds – 1

• Locker room for children’s classes – 1

• Tennis Courts – 1

There is a desire to add a hot tub to the current amenities.

The top park amenities the community would like to see are a community garden, outdoor basketball courts, and a dog park.

NEW AMENITY – NEW FACILITY (TOTAL OF 16 RESPONSES)) • Ice-skating rink – 13 • Indoor Soccer Arena (with walls for 6 v 6) – 2 • Roller Skating Rink – 1

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Appendix B NEW AMENITY – RECREATION CENTER (TOTAL OF 15

NEW PROGRAM – AQUATICS (TOTAL OF 10

RESPONSES))

RESPONSES))

• Sauna (like Sky Fitness) – 4

• More Adult Swim Classes – 2

• More indoor pickleball courts – 2

• Swimming for Kids – 1

• Facility updates (second-floor plumbing, vent leaks, better shower heads) – 2

• Swim Class – 1

• Dedicated Yoga Studio – 1

• More Swim Classes at Outdoor Pools – 2

• Indoor running track – 1

• Add More Classes for Sharks – Classes are difficult to Get Into – 1

• Need phone in women’s locker room – 1

• Youth Swim Team – 1

• More water fountains – 1

• Private swim lessons – 1

• Teen lounge – 1

• Diving Instruction – 1

• Space for Preteens/Lounge – 1

The majority of respondents are looking for more youth/ adult swim classes.

• Add Community Theatre in Room 205 – 1

NEW PROGRAM – ART (TOTAL OF 5 RESPONSES))

The overall new amenities to the Recreation Center include a sauna, more indoor pickleball courts, updates to the facility and a space for Preteens/Teens.

• Oil Painting Classes – 1

NEW AMENITY – SENIORS (TOTAL OF 6 RESPONSES))

• Art Classes – 2

• Seniors need a dedicated space – 6

• Senior Painting Classes – 1

• More Hands-On Crafting Events – 1

NEW PROGRAM – ADULTS (TOTAL OF 8 RESPONSES)) • Stimulate learning (read books, speaker) – 1

The desire is to have more classes offered (i.e., oil painting, art, senior painting).

• Book Club – 2

NEW PROGRAM – COOKING (TOTAL OF 8 RESPONSES))

• Genealogy Classes – 1

• Cooking/baking classes/recipes for healthy eating – 4

• Teach Gardening – 1

• Cooking demo from local restaurant – 1

• Carpenter Class – 1

• Interactive cooking classes – 2

• Canvas Painting – 1

• Cooking class – 1

• Workshops for Teachers During the Summer – 1

Seven out of eight respondents were looking to have cooking classes offered.

Overall, there is a desire for additional learning opportunities (i.e., book clubs, classes, gardening, and painting)

NEW PROGRAM – DANCE (TOTAL OF 5 RESPONSES)) • Belly Dance – 1 • Ballet, Folkloric/variety of cultural dance options – 1 • More dance classes – 1 • Ballroom Dance Classes – 2 The general theme is to offer more dance classes in a variety of dance (belly dance, ballet, folkloric, cultural dance, etc.)

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Appendix B NEW PROGRAM – EARLY CHILDHOOD (TOTAL OF 13

NEW PROGRAM – FITNESS CLASSES (TOTAL OF 49

RESPONSES))

RESPONSES))

• Preschool 5-days a week – 1

• Spin classes – 4

• Toddler Pottery – 1

• STEP class - 1

• More classes for 5-year-olds – 1

• Body Pump Class for specific evening times – 9

• Early childhood – Foam party – 1

• New/More Barre classes – 1

• Neon night party - 1

• Kickboxing – 2

• Free activity sessions for toddlers – 1

• Body Pump Class at 7:15 p.m. (Sheldon) – 2

• Day care or longer preschool – 1

• Pilates (in a.m.) – 2

• Early Childhood classes; gymnastics, music, art, movement – 1

• Another Pilates class on Tuesday/at night – 2

• Early Childhood classes (weekends) – 1 • Need levels for early childhood classes so kids can move up – 1 • New programs for early childhood – new vendors - 1 • After school care for 5-year-olds/programs for days off of school – 1 • More programs for toddlers/art classes/music – 1 There is interest in extending the hours/days of preschool, adding additional activities/programs, and having some specialized events geared toward early childhood.

NEW PROGRAM – EVENTS (TOTAL OF 8 RESPONSES))

• HIIT/Spin/Body Pump on Thursday p.m. (Jayce/Sheldon) –8 • Cardio/Strength on Friday a.m. – 1 • Offer another weight loss challenge/monthly fitness challenges – 2 • Body Building – 1 • Weekday fitness classes at 5:30 a.m. / Bootcamp – 1 • Kettle Bell Class in a.m. – 1 • Mat ball – 1 • More senior exercise classes with different instructors – 1

• Pet Friendly Events – 1

• Add more intermediate fitness classes during the morning for adults/seniors – 2

• Movie Night – 1

• Dance Fusion classes – 1

• Turkey trot run – 1

• Additional fitness classes – 6

• Bring back movies in the afternoon – 1

• Women’s fitness – aerial classes – 1

• More 5k or longer runs – 1

Overall, the community is looking to have various classes that are currently offered, offered at different times (Body Pump, Pilates, HIIT, Fitness classes), additional classes added, and a variation in fitness instructors.

• Scavenger hunt – 1 • Show World Cup Final – 1 The desire is to have more movie viewing opportunities and specialized runs.

NEW PROGRAM – GENERAL SUGGESTION (TOTAL OF 4 RESPONSES)) • Spanish Class – 1 • Daytime classes offered in the afternoon – 2 • More inclusion for those with special needs – 1 • Dog training – 1

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Appendix B NEW PROGRAM – MIND/BODY (TOTAL OF 10

• Youth basketball class for youth/additional – 2

RESPONSES))

• Cricket – 4

• Tai Chi (day/evening) – 8

• Youth soccer – 3

• Breath work – 1

• Volleyball – 3

• Meditation Classes – 1 There was an overwhelming response to a desire to host tai chi classes to support the mind/body.

NEW PROGRAM – MUSIC (TOTAL OF 2 RESPONSES))

• Volleyball “B” League (add back) – 2 • Open Gym Volleyball (winter) – 6 • Advance pickleball – 3

• Music programs – 1

• Intramural basketball – 1

• Guitar lessons – 1

• Drills for intermediate pickles players – 1

NEW PROGRAM – PARENT/CHILD (TOTAL OF 4

• Free agent adult sport leagues – 2

RESPONSES))

• Pickleball lessons – 1

• Early childhood – Bring parent/guardian dressed as what they work – 1

• Tennis – 6

• Early childhood – Brunch or breakfast with family/grandparents – 1

• Soccer tournaments – 1

• Futsal – 1

• Parent/child – Mimosa and pancake are fun – 1

• Badminton – 4

• Zumba with child – 1

• Flag football – 1

NEW PROGRAM – PERFORMING ARTS (TOTAL OF 4

• Youth football program – 1

RESPONSES))

• Youth gymnastics – 2

• Community Theatre (for all ages: youth – adult) – 2

• Youth volleyball instruction – 2

• Improve upon youth dance classes – parents will pay more – utilize room with stage – 1

• Dodgeball – 1

• Improv classes – 1 • Interest in a community theatre for all ages.

NEW PROGRAM – SENIORS (TOTAL OF 4 RESPONSES)) • Chair Yoga for seniors – 2

• Basketball tournament – 1 In total, there were 12 responses) that included offering additional youth programs (lacrosse, basketball, soccer, football, gymnastics, and volleyball). These are significant numbers that show interest in volleyball, tennis, and badminton.

NEW PROGRAM – TEENS (TOTAL OF 5 RESPONSES))

• Silver Sneakers at 10 a.m. – 1 • Tech and Social Media classes for seniors (iPhone, iPad, Digitals) – 1

• Fortnite – 1 • A running league for teens – 1

There is an interest in chair yoga for seniors.

• Badminton lessons for teens – 1

NEW PROGRAM – SPORTS (TOTAL OF 50 RESPONSES))

• More volunteer coaching programs at the High School level – 1

• Athletic classes for youth – 1 • Youth lacrosse – 1

• Intramural basketball – 1

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Appendix B NEW PROGRAMS – TRIPS (TOTAL OF 19 RESPONSES)) • Trip to Christkindl market – downtown Chicago – 2

• More for young adults (20s, 30s, 40s) non-sports related such as dance, acting, sign language) – 3

• Trip to Cantigny – 2

• More programs for young adults – 1

• Trip to local historical locations – 1

• More activities for working adults/evenings and weekends – 1

• Trip to Chicago History Museum – 2 • Architectural boat tour trip – 1 • Family canoe/kayak day trips – 2

• Book club – 1 • Targeted activities for adult ages (30s, 40s, 50s) – 1

• Trip/tour of Long Grove Confectionary Outlet – 1

There needs to be more programs/activities for ages 20 to 50.

• Tour local bus: banks/rest/factories – 2

NEW PROGRAM – YOUTH (TOTAL OF 17 RESPONSES))

• Tours of facility/how it works/kitchen tours – 1

• Additional field trips – 1

• Winery tour – 1

• STEM activities/chemistry, robotics – 3

• Trip to Skokie Performing Arts Center – 1

• Rock climbing – 1

• More activities/day trips for active adults – 2

• Finance classes for youth and teens – 1

• Trip to White Fence Farm in Joliet – 1

• Pop-Up Classes – 1

There is a desire for more activities/day trips for active adults.

Common attractions included a trip to Christkindl market, Cantigny, Chicago History Museum, local bus tours, and family canoe/kayak trips.

• Paintball – 1

NEW PROGRAM – WATER EXERCISE (TOTAL OF 14

• Marble tournaments – 1

RESPONSES)) • Water exercise classes in the morning – 6 • Aqua Zumba – 4 • Aqua Fitness – 1 • More water classes – 2

• More programs and activities for youth (i.e., life skills) – 3 • Please add more free camps – 1

• Gaga ball – 1 • Cooking classes – 1 • Learn to ride a bike – 1 • Archery – 1

• Outdoor Aqua Aerobics in the a.m. weekly (summer) – 1

General interest in more youth programs (i.e., STEM, rock climbing, paintball, etc.).

NEW PROGRAM – YOGA (TOTAL OF 8 RESPONSES))

SUGGESTION – EVENTS (TOTAL OF 3 RESPONSES))

• Yoga (afternoon/Mommy & Me) – 3

• Take more registration for Thanksgiving Feast to accommodate for no-shows – 1

• More daytime classes – Gentle yoga – 1 • Yoga – on Friday evening (with Carol) -3 • Add second chair yoga class – 1 NEW PROGRAM – YOUNG ADULTS (TOTAL OF 9 RESPONSES)) • Self-defense training for women – 1 • Young adult activities/programs – 1

• Bring back the live music to the Thanksgiving Feast – 1 • Keep Kids Night Out – 1 SUGGESTION – FEES AND CHARGES (TOTAL OF 4 RESPONSES)) • Lower the outdoor pool fees – 1 • Reduce cost of classes for seniors – 1

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Appendix B • Charge Nonresidents for Wheeling Park District events so Residents are not subsidizing – 1

SUGGESTION – GENERAL SUGGESTION (TOTAL OF 21

• Free membership – 1

• Support group for people with health issues – 1

SUGGESTION – FITNESS CENTER (TOTAL OF 12

• Batman mobile – 1

RESPONSES))

• A new/bigger bus is needed for trips – 5

• Sanitizing equipment/space requirements – 2

RESPONSES))

• Need better food at senior lunch – 1

• News on tv’s in the a.m. – 1

• Competitive pay – 3

• Online check-in – 2

• Better/more marketing – 2

• Allow kids to use the gym with adult – 2

• More art supplies – 1

• Bring massage back – 1

• Free mental health counseling – 1

• Child care while parents exercise – 1

• Provide 1:4 ratio for swim lessons – 1

• Please remove the plastic on fitness desk – 1 • Wheeling Park District Fitness App to record fitness and sign-up for fitness classes – 1 • Child care while parents exercise – 1

• I would like an opportunity to exhibit my artwork at the Community Recreation Center – 1 • More creativity in water aerobics classes – 1 • Colored outdoor Christmas lights on the trees – 1

There was a common theme of having child care for parents while they exercise as well as letting children workout with an adult present. The community would also like to have equipment/spaces sanitized frequently.

• More user-friendly website to register kids for programs –1

SUGGESTION – FITNESS EQUIPMENT (TOTAL OF 17

The most popular general suggestion is to purchase a new/ bigger bus for trips, competitive pay, and better/more marketing.

RESPONSES)) • More rubber balls and 3 lb. weights – 1

• More fun! – 1

SUGGESTION – HOURS/SCHEDULING

• More weight plates – 1

• Evening pool hours – 2

• Centralized weight plate organizer – 1

• Very early morning classes – 1

• More cable machines – 1

• Early and late classes for people who work – 1

• More squat racks – 2

• Extended pool hours/more hours for the working class – 3

• Deadlift platform – 1

• Expand track hours beyond 8 p.m. - 1

• Update/more equipment – 9

• Keep pool open longer for adults – 1

• Organize weights on 1st floor better – 1 The community would like to see the current equipment updated as well as adding more equipment to the facility.

• Longer hours – 1 • Later hours on Saturday – 1 • More pool hours available for exercise – 1 • Longer hours at FAC – open later that 7 p.m./After School Hours in August – 1

Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan | Wheeling Park District 157

Appendix B SUGGESTION – HOURS/SCHEDULING

• Hot water in showers – 11

• Additional hours for open swim at indoor pool for kids who still nap – 1

• Better soap and conditioner in showers – it’s low quality –2

• Please do not offer private swim lessons during lap swim –1

• Provide shampoo, conditioner, and body wash separately, not all in one – 1

• Longer hours for evening lap swim – 1

• 2nd shower – curtain and conditioner – 1

• Open the Walking Track 24/7 – 1

• Replace the shower heads in the locker rooms – 1

• Extend open swim hours – 1

• Family changing room is too cold; increase the temp – 1

• Add badminton courts on Thursday – 1

Respondents would like better/more amenities within the fitness center and locker rooms (swimsuit spinner/dryer, fullsized towels, locker rentals, weight scales, etc.)

Regarding hours, the community would like more options during all hours of the day. Longer hours for some activities, longer open hours daily, and classes scheduled for the working class.

SUGGESTION – INDOOR POOL (TOTAL OF 12 RESPONSES)

SUGGESTION – OPEN GYM (TOTAL OF 4 RESPONSES) • More open gym time – 2 • Free gym – 1

• Heat the indoor pool more – 8

• Shorter gym hours – 1

• Provide opportunity to reserve a lane for lap swimming –1

SUGGESTION – PARKING (TOTAL OF 27 RESPONSES) • More parking is needed – 23

• Add a steam room – 1

• Additional handicapped parking spaces – 1

• Deeper swimming pool- 2

• More direction is needed in lot – 2

There is a common theme of increasing the temperature of the indoor pool.

• Parking lot lights – 1

SUGGESTION – LOCKER ROOMS (TOTAL OF 38 RESPONSES) • Swimsuit spinner/dryer in member and family lockers – 4 • Full sized towels in locker rooms – 1 • Locker rentals in fitness center – 4 • Put the weight scale back in women’s locker room – 4 • Add conditioner and hair dryer in women’s locker room – 1 • Add scales to the locker rooms – 1 • Add soap in the locker room showers – they always seem to be empty – 1 • Bigger, better Showers – 3 • Need a mirror and hair dryer in women’s locker room – 1 • Need door or curtain in shower area to keep hanging clothes/towel dry – 1

There was an overwhelming response that more parking is needed.

SUGGESTION – PICKLEBALL (TOTAL OF 4 RESPONSES) • More pickleball times – 2 • Harder pickleballs - 1 • More time to reserve Pickleball courts in p.m. – 1 SUGGESTION – RECREATION CENTER • Recycling Options – 1 • New pickleball court lines – 1 • Increase water flow in fountain – 1 • Better pickleball lighting – 1 • Replace gym lighting with LED lighting – 1 • More food available/vending or stand – 3 • Re-do the gym floor lines in the old gym (pickleball) – 1

158 Wheeling Park District | Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan

Appendix B SUGGESTION – RECREATION CENTER • Please renovate the walking track – it’s been neglected – 4 • Fix drinking fountains, low pressure (filter change) – 1 • Free food samples cart – 1 • Bring back morning coffee – 3

Respondents would like to see more food/vending options, the current walking track renovated, and to bring back morning coffee.

SUGGESTION – SCHEDULE/HOURS (TOTAL OF 1 RESPONSE) • More days of basketball – 1

• Provide a space for youth to hang out – 1 • Better water bottle fillers – 1 • Better gym lighting – 1

Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan | Wheeling Park District 159

Appendix B

APPENDIX B.2: SOCIAL PINPOINT COMMENTS Ideas Wall Summary Below is a summary of the responses to ideas wall prompts on Wheeling Park District Social Pinpoint site.

Up Votes

Down Votes

A Sauna in the gym facility

9

4

Up Votes

Down Votes

Wheeling Park District Swim Team

8

0

Resistance loop bands at the gym

1

3

Concerts

2

4

Steam room

0

0

5k races

2

4

Warm water/heated pool

Adult only time at the Aquatic Center

9

0

6

3

Lazy river at the Aquatic Center

Community farming

0

0

4

9

Community composting

0

0

Bigger slides at the Aquatic Center

4

9

English classes

0

0

Climbing wall

1

0

ADA accessible playground equipment

4

1

Walking and biking trails

8

1

Indoor playgrounds

5

0

Dog park

11

2

Driving range at Chevy Chase

4

0

Sand volleyball courts

6

2

Skate park

1

0

Soccer and football fields

10

0

Music, art, and painting programs

4

9

Programs in Spanish

4

9

Daily lunch

4

9

New Amenities

Gym Facility

Aquatic Facility

General Facilities

Sporting Facilities

General

What changes would you like to see at Wheeling Park District?

New Programs

General

160 Wheeling Park District | Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan

Appendix B Up Votes

Down Votes

Renovate and maintain the aquatics center

6

0

Moring aqua aerobics

3

1

Expand hours of operation for the pool

4

3

Early pool access for adults

3

2

Early access for all residents

6

Bigger indoor lap pool with more lanes to reserve

7

Suggestions

Aquatics

Gym

Track

Sporting

Concerts

Up Votes

Down Votes

Meeting/Hangout spaces for adults

0

0

Separate email distribution lists

0

0

Change how basketball courts/gyms are reserved

17

0

0

Stop permitting MLMs at health and holiday fairs

5

0

0

Expand health insurance coverage

5

0

Regenerative farming for food pantries

10

3

Linked trails to the Des Plains River Trail and/or Prospect Heights Trail

1

2

Add floors to the building to create space

0

5

Increase lighting (Parking lot, pool, gym)

6

1

Suggestions

General

Add weighing machines in the gym locker rooms

0

Expand gym hours

4

3

More visible gym schedule at reception

4

0

More dumbbells in the gym

0

2

Open the track until close

8

0

Add a dog park

0

0

Renovate the track

8

0

Expand parking

0

0

Senior scrambles for golf

1

1

Senior golf league

1

1

Make use of the sand volleyball courts

5

0

Stock the lake with fish

8

2

More pickleball courts

4

2

More concerts with varying genres

5

1

Diversity with summer concerts (Spanish speaking)

6

2

0

General

Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan | Wheeling Park District 161

Appendix B Comments/Questions

Dog Parks

Events

Aquatic Center

Up Votes

Down Votes

There are “no dogs” signs at the playgrounds but there are frequently people there with their dogs.

11

17

More diversity in concerts and performances. Everyone should think their preferences are heard.

2

0

We already have a fantastic international festival. I worry that too many rock bands might bother all the new neighbors and old homes surrounding the events center.

2

0

I’ve gone to the outdoor pool after work a few times, looking forward to lap swimming only to be thwarted by teens and kids hanging out in the lap lanes.

It’s one of the reasons I don’t buy a summer pass.

0

0

You can find lazy rivers and they’re not the biggest draw. If you don’t make resources available to all you leave out some. We all identify with one another when we show up for common programs. Highlighting our village not just a segment.

6

0

Comments/Questions

Parking

162 Wheeling Park District | Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan

A decision was made to place barriers in the middle of the 2-way road to the west of the main parking lot for the Community Recreation Center, the lot just south of the building. This precluded those of us who park in the first line of continuing around the loop and being able to exit the property at the light. We are forced to either go to the overflow lot to west and turn around or to go out the drive on the west of the building, being required to cross two intersections where many divers fail to obey the stop signs. To make matter worse, cars traveling west down the middle drive are continuing west, in the wrong direction, on the southern portion of the newly divided roadway. Corrective action is required. I was told that the barriers were installed due to summer camp. Camp is over, remove them before someone get seriously hurt, or killed.

Up Votes

Down Votes

11

5

Appendix B Comments/Questions

Parking

Up Votes

Also, it causes a problem when a car is leaving the second-row parking and is trying to go towards the overflow parking, and someone is trying to go back toward the Community Recreation Center coming from the overflow parking. I have seen many people have to start backing up to let each other through. This needs to be fixed ASAP as it does not make sense in a traffic or safety sense.

3

The parking situation at Community Recreation Center is seriously awful.

Even just a single event going on forces you to park by the village hall (illegally, according to the signs) or out by the concert stage and walk a mile to the building.

3

This should be a priority!!!!

We shouldn’t have to come up with our own protective measures when it is known a lighted facility is safer. If you have to park far away, they could install cameras and alerts for help.

We shouldn’t have to carry mace or whistles.

0

Down Votes

1

0

Up Votes

Down Votes

This was the first year that I signed my son up for a Summer Camp at the Community Recreation Center. My son's best friend is the same age but in a different grade because of his birthday. I don't understand why my son and his best friend couldn't be in the same group. I even talked with the manager to discuss the option. She said that she would try, but ultiSummer mately, they were placed in different groups. Needless Camp to say, my son disliked camp, and I withdrew him 4 weeks early (I signed him up for the whole summer).

6

4

The parking situation at Community Recreation Center is seriously awful.

Even just a single event going on forces you to park by the village hall (illegally, according to the signs) or out by the concert stage and walk a mile to the building.

3

0

Comments/Questions

0

Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan | Wheeling Park District 163

Appendix B Comments/Questions

Summer Camp

Camp is for making new friends too. Sounds like this resident played into sons fears of being alone at camp. I would have just said everyone there is looking at you on the first day as a potential new best friend.

Geez. Why not just take him and his friend on outings together. Like being spoon fed everything you want is realistic expectations for life.

There is nowhere for a child between the ages of 3-6 where they can play basketball outside. The nets are too high. There is a park where they have a fenced in area with multiple leveled basketball nets.

Parks

Indian trails has a storybook walk-in buffalo grove that encourages families to walk the whole path to read the story. We have also been to a park that is specifically for crawlers and toddlers. A wooden town with pretend food café, post office, store, and ramps they can crawl up and slide down.

There are very few trails, and the current ones are not the best. It is a trap for people riding roller blades as it requires really good ways.

Up Votes

22

2

3

0

Down Votes

0

1

Up Votes

Down Votes

Chevy Chase - Is the country club private owned or a Wheeling Park District establishment?

0

0

Gym – I don’t think they need to explicitly post a sign telling you to wipe down any equipment you use upstairs. It’s common courtesy to wipe down anything you use.

Unfortunately, I know that is not followed by a lot of people, which is a problem throughout the gym.

5

0

Recreation center: Walking track closing late. 8pm is a bit early.

8

0

Scholarship program: We offer scholarships for children some who don’t reside in Wheeling Park District.

Yet our elders are left without money to pay? Even when interested? No wonder some communities feel unserved. We price them out, yet their taxes pay for those programs and scholarships. Free for all or nominal. Let all those out of residents pay full prices.

5

0

Tennis: Compared to our neighboring suburbs, we are very lacking in Tennis facilities, and by extension, programs.

4

0

Comments/Questions

General

0

0

164 Wheeling Park District | Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan

Appendix B What new programs would you like to see offered?

Up Votes

Down Votes

Art classes for adults (pottery)

5

1

Cooking, dancing, book clubs

4

0

New Amenities

Adult Programming

Group Exercise

Performing Arts

Aquatics

Youth Programming

General

Up Votes

Down Votes

Make programs flexible with scheduling outside of the typical 9-5 schedule (Up votes: 11, Down votes: 2)

11

2

More golf lessons available at the simulator/range

5

2

Open up the golf course to cross country skiing in the winter

3

1

More senior group programs (yoga, meditation, exercise)

4

3

Softer Tai Chi, yoga, and lifting for seniors

2

0

Additional cardio classes that aren’t boot camp level

1

3

More programs for people who work 9-5

0

0

Add evening pickleball times

8

1

More pickleball options

5

1

Bring back its old swim lessons program

4

1

Evening or weekend Aqua Zumba

0

1

Please bring back Wednesday and Friday morning aqua fit classes

0

0

Look at trips offered

by Grayslake Wheeling Park District for seniors

4

0

Diverse music/ bands at the outdoor pavilion

3

3

Bollywood Dances

1

0

More parking

1

3

Suggestions

Walking, snow shoeing, skis, etc. including equipment rentals

3

Weekly ballroom dancing

4

0

Boxing classes

7

3

Tai Chi

5

0

Senior exercise and wellness

7

0

Friendly fitness competitions and yoga

2

0

Volleyball open gym

1

0

Community theatre for adults and children

28

3

Morning water Zumba course

6

2

Additional tot swim classes

3

2

Little league traveling teams

7

1

Organized sports for younger children

0

0

Multi-generational programs (gardening, yoga, golf lessons, etc.)

0

0

1

Adult Programming

Golf

Group Exercise

Pickleball

Aquatics

General

Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan | Wheeling Park District 165

Appendix B Up Votes

Down Votes

Varying costs for residents/ nonresidents

2

0

Line up after school programs for kids so that parents have a choice of what the kids do

1

1

Stop pricing out those that pay taxes in village

2

0

Up Votes

Down Votes

I taught drama classes at Wheeling years ago and would happily teach/direct any and all ages again.

0

0

Why not join the elder community and on day one choose places to go as a group! That way no complaints and all feel heard together.

2

This resident is right.

But no free bus service. That should be by your school.

But since private schools aren’t given for free this cannot be viewed as equitable or fair. Ok with after school activities but guardian should bring or all schools should cover free bus service.

0

Suggestions

Comments/Questions

Up Votes

Down Votes

Wheeling Park District is for all. Services and classes should be provided with time constraints for some residents in mind. Sounds like elderly love the early morning as do little children not in school. If you already flex time programs for them. Adults who work should be kept in mind too. Even parents could benefit from weekend classes as one spouse working could stay home and watch children.

2

0

In the summer, I go Prospect Heights for a 6am Deep Water Aerobics class 3x during the week - and at 8am on the weekend. They offer it twice a week in the evening as well. I know there are classmates who would go to Wheeling for this, especially if you coordinated/alternated the days with PH.

1

1

Although I agree with you this should already be incorporated in the programs you enjoy. I would caution you to get this advice you are seeking from qualified practitioners. But maybe the course you looking for could be run by one??!

4

0

Comments/Questions

0

0

166 Wheeling Park District | Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan

Appendix B What new programs would you like to see offered?

Up Votes

Down Votes

7

1

Up Votes

Down Votes

Add fencing along the walking trails

8

3

Better supervise the ball fields, teams warm up too close to the walking paths

2

0

Repair the bridge from Wolf Road

1

2

Offer more water aerobics classes

6

1

It would be nice to have more aqua fit classes during the day

1

0

Up Votes

Down Votes

New Programs Add a community cleanup group for the parks and trails

Suggestions

Parks

Water Exercise

Compliments

Events

Compliments

Wheeling does a great job with family friendly events like Boonanza and summer events to attract younger families to enjoy.

8

0

I love all the events you have like the Thanksgiving

0

0

We really enjoy the outside events like the concert in the summer we get to spend time with the whole family it’s something to look forward to. Love The Thanksgiving Feast.

0

0

Great pickleball options

Up Votes

Down Votes

5

1

Great facilities and grounds

3

0

Great fitness center hours

2

0

Beautiful park my fami1 lies come to walk 6 days

1

My family and I love F a c i l i t i e s going to the Aquatic Center in the summer. and Parks Flick and Float is a great event there as well. We enjoy the events and 0 concerts held at the area next to the Aquatic Center. We have frequented a few of Wheeling Park District parks.

0

Staff

The staff is wonderful, top notch fitness center, and lifeguards at the Aquatic Center are great. Lots of events for kids and families for free

6

0

Love the fitness center, the employees and clientele make it a very enjoyable experience every time!

4

0

Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan | Wheeling Park District 167

Appendix B Forum summary Below is a summary of the responses to the Forum on Wheeling Park District Social Pinpoint Site.

What is your vision for Wheeling Park District in five years?

Up Votes

New Amenities Community garden and 3 compost program

1

Add a skate park either 2 indoor or outdoor

0

Hockey Instruction and 2 Rinks (youth and adult)

0

Up Votes

Suggestions Handicap/wheelchair accessible ramp or walkway for main entrance ADA

Programming

Recreation Staff

General

Down Votes

2

Down Votes 0

Place electric door openers at better locations so the door 0 doesn’t open against where the button is

1

Aquatics needs remodeling, especially the indoor pool

5

0

Reorganize the gym equipment and better maintain it

5

10

Update the lockers 0 by the walking track

0

Remove speed bumps, or cones in the parking lots

3

1

Update the registration template to be less tedious

4

0

Separate bike lanes at Heritage Park

6

0

Expand trips for seniors

2

0

Up Votes

Down Votes

I would love to see that our Wheeling Park District is as enriched and serviced as surrounding communities.

It is quite sad that we are so close to other Wheeling Park Districts that offer more but price some of us out by not even partnering with Wheeling Park District to offset nonresident costs. If you don’t have the tax money coming in from all those unsightly rentals do more for the residents of Wheeling long term and advocate for similar equity in services classes and teams for our children that live here. (Up votes: 14, Down votes: 0)

14

0

Quit giving tax money to residents that only live here temporary in apartment buildings. If you offer scholarship money to help pay for our services, make sure they actually own a home here and pay taxes. Otherwise send each resident a donation slips because that is charity.

Enough already.

11

8

Significant improvement to handicap accessibility both from the parking lot to the main entrance and the electric doors. You have indicated in many past communications that the property is ADA compliant. However, it is far from handicap accessible. The handicap spaces near the handicap ramp are about 30 to 40 yards, a very long distance for those with mobility issues, from the main entrance in which is mostly all uphill.

0

1

Comments/Questions

168 Wheeling Park District | Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan

Appendix B Comments/Questions

Up Votes

The door exiting the main entrance is a very far distance from the door leading to the lobby and you have to walk past the door to the wall to press the button and back to the door. It would be easier to consider either moving the electric door to the next set of doors to the east which would be a logical flow patten or put the button to the side of the door or

0

I envision Wheeling Park District revamping its aquatics programs, most importantly swim lessons. There has been much inconsistency due to the sudden change in the swim lesson program. It feels as if it just swept the previous problems of the prior program under the rug and piled up more problems. Plus, the gym got a new touch-up, so the pools should get one as well! Re-do the locker rooms outdoors and add a family one as well. Don't ignore the pools! Please renovate them.

6

Down Votes

2

Up Votes

Down Votes

Why doesn't the Museum provide educational programs and events/activities like the surrounding suburb's Museums which have professional management/curator/ program directors?

1

0

I’m not certain I understand community garden. Does your backyard garden not grow enough for the community? Can you imagine the pd controlling starving people that come on harvest but not on planting day.

1

0

Comments/Questions

0

Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan | Wheeling Park District 169

Wheeling Park District We’re People Driven

Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan