Wilmette Park District South Beach Operations and Community Feedback

Wilmette Park District South Beach Operations and Community Feedback

12/17/24 – The Board of Park Commissioners has committed to using a managed access control at South Beach in Gillson Park in 2025. In 2024, access control was implemented using a fence; however, this does not necessarily mean the same structure will be used in 2025. While the specific form of access control may evolve, the Park District remains committed to having a system in place that effectively manages but does not restrict access. The Board carefully deliberated this choice, considering testimonies and evidence highlighting the positive impacts of a managed beach area. These include enhanced safety for beachgoers, improved operational efficiency, and a better experience for visitors and staff. The Board also considered feedback from park district staff, public input, and data from local law enforcement as key factors in making their decision.

While the decision to retain access control measures is confirmed, several operational elements remain under review and open for consideration. To address these, the District is seeking community input to help shape the details of beach operations for the upcoming season.

The Wilmette Park District and Public Communications Inc. (PCI) will host focus groups on January 21 at the Lakeview Center in Gillson Park (800 Gillson Park Drive, Wilmette) and January 22 at the Community Recreation Center (3000 Glenview Road, Wilmette) to gather feedback on:

• Alternative Types of Seasonal Access Control
• Location of Managed Access (Entrance/Exit Points)
• South Beach Pricing
• South Beach Schedule
• Other Operational Suggestions

Each date will have two ninety (90) minute time slots available, with approximately fifteen (15) participants per time slot. The afternoon session begins at 1:00 pm and the evening session begins at 6:30 pm. Feedback from the focus groups will help inform operational decisions, with finalized plans and announcements to be shared this spring. 

How to Participate:

The Park District values the insights of community members who have expressed a strong interest in Gillson Park and beach operations and have provided feedback over the past year. These individuals will form the initial focus groups and should expect invitations to attend.

If you are not part of this initial group but would like to participate, we invite you to sign up for consideration using https://forms.office.com/r/AHngKYMZmS. Participants will be randomly selected from this sign-up list with the assistance of Public Communications Inc. (PCI); the agency leading the discussions.

Thank You

We sincerely appreciate the community’s ongoing passion and engagement with Gillson Park and South Beach. Your input continues to be invaluable as we work to enhance the experience for all patrons.

We look forward to collaborating with Wilmette residents in shaping the 2025 beach season. We will share more details, in the weeks to come.

Thank you for your support and commitment to our parks!