Arlington Heights Park District’s 100th Year Anniversary
June 9, 2025 marks the Arlington Heights Park District’s 100th year anniversary. We are proud to share and celebrate this important milestone with our residents from June 2025 through May 2026.
The Arlington Heights Park District’s mission is to enrich the community by providing quality recreation, facilities and fun.
We do this by:
- Ensuring the efficient and effective use of financial resources and Park District
- Providing innovative recreational opportunities and facilities to meet the diverse programming needs of our
- Continuing the District’s pursuit of being a community, regional, state and national leader
- Promoting an environment of cooperation, collaboration and teamwork
- Providing quality internal and external customer-focused
- Providing stewardship of our open spaces and natural resources
Over the past 100 years, the Arlington Heights Park District has reached countless milestones. Let’s journey back to where it all began!
The foundation of the Arlington Heights Park District was laid when residents approved its formation through a referendum on June 9, 1925. Just days later, on June 18, the first Park Board meeting was held with Commissioners Nathaniel Banta, Henry Klehm, Eugene Berbecker, Albert Volz, and Julius D. Flentie.
The Arlington Heights Park District (AHPD) has a rich history of growth and community impact. Early acquisitions included Memorial Park and leased land along railroad tracks, with the first tax levy in 1926 raising $1,335.72. By 1931, bonds funded land development, and in 1939, the WPA-supported Recreation Park Pool and Field House opened.
The 1950s saw expanded programming, and a 1955 referendum secured $675,000 for land acquisition, including Pioneer Park. Rapid population growth in the 1960s led to three major bond referendums, funding facilities like Hasbrook Park, community centers, pools, and Arlington Lakes Golf Club. In 1971, a survey highlighted interest in indoor facilities, resulting in Forest View Tennis Club (1973). Financial challenges in the mid-1970s led to a “Save the Parks” referendum, helping sustain operations.
The 1980s focused on maintenance and earned AHPD its first National Gold Medal. The district acquired North School in 1987, now its Administration Building, and launched the “Children at Play” (CAP) program in 1989. The 1990s brought expansion, including Lake Arlington programming, Nickol Knoll Park, and Senior Center activities.
Since 2000, AHPD has secured over $10 million in grants, funding projects like pool renovations and community center upgrades. Major initiatives include the Arlington Ridge Center (formerly Olympic Park) and upcoming developments guided by the 2024 Comprehensive Plan.
AHPD is excited to celebrate its 100th anniversary with a variety of activities and events for the entire community to enjoy. Throughout the year, residents can look forward to special programs, initiatives, and family-friendly events that showcase the district’s rich history and commitment to recreation.
Happy 100 Years, Arlington Heights! We can’t wait to celebrate with you!
