Skokie Voters Approve Park District Referendum

SKOKIE, IL — Skokie voters overwhelmingly approved a $53 million bond referendum for improvements to Sports Park East and the development of a new Channelside Park South.

With the approval, residents can expect their property taxes to increase by approximately $0.129 per $100 in home value for the next 20 years. The Park District said the estimated annual tax impact would be about $137 for a home with a fair market value of $400,000, or about $11 per month. To check how much your property tax bill will increase, visit the park district's website.

With all precincts reported as of Wednesday morning, 60.25 percent of Skokie voters, or 11,019 people, voted yes on the referendum. Out of Skokie's 47,671 registered voters, 19,433 ballots were cast by Tuesday, making the night's turnout about 40 percent.

The project will transform an undeveloped asphalt site into Channelside Park South and improve Skokie Sports Park and Sports Park East. The Park District said the work is intended to enhance indoor and outdoor recreation opportunities while strengthening connections between both parks and the North Shore Channel Trail.

Plans for Channelside Park South include expansive green space, scenic paths and natural landscapes, along with an accessible playground and outdoor fitness equipment. The plan also includes a renovated multipurpose facility, plus a bandshell and event lawn.

At Skokie Sports Park and Sports Park East, the Park District said the project will expand and improve year-round recreation, sports and fitness opportunities for all ages. Work will include a new recreation center with indoor courts, upgraded athletic fields with new sports lighting and irrigation, a walking path with native plantings and other outdoor amenities.

Work on the project is expected to begin in spring 2027.