THE JOURNAL & TOPICS NEWSPAPERS | WEDNESDAY, MAY 14, 2008
Oasis Water Park Opens Memorial Day Weekend
The Niles Park District and Wight & Company, the design-builder for the project, announced last week that the new Oasis Fun Center & Water Park on Milwaukee Avenue will open to the public on Saturday, May 24, at 11 a.m.
The $4.7 million Oasis Fun Center project includes the renovation of the existing zero-depth swimming pool, the addition of a 3,000 sq. ft. "spray ground," and the construction of a new 12,000 sq. ft. recreation center and parking lot.
The recreation center houses the pool manager and lifeguard operations, administrative services, locker room facilities, concession area, and multi-purpose and rental rooms.
"Visitors will have the opportunity to enjoy the new water park features this summer and the recreation facility complements the Tam Tennis Center and other park district amenities," said Joe LoVerde, executive director of the Niles Park District.
According to park district officials, the new Oasis was constructed to minimize its impact on the environment through the recycling of materials from its initial demolition projects-a "green" initiative that saved the park district more than $40,000 in materials costs.
"The park district's leadership established the vision for this fantastic project and was again a true partner through the process of design and construction," said Ken Osmun, president of Wight Construction. "It is great working with a sophisticated and knowledgeable client who values quality and the environment."
Wight & Company is a leader in integrated solutions for the built environment, a spokesperson said.Its professional staff of more than 175 specialists has been providing clients with architecture and engineering services since 1939, and design-build and construction management services for more than a decade.
A ribbon cutting ceremony will be held on Thursday, May 22 at 6 p.m.