Pool Renovation FAQs

The pools are closing to allow for a major aquatic infrastructure renovation project. Engineering evaluations determined that several critical mechanical systems supporting the lap pool, therapy pool and whirlpools are nearing the end of their useful life and require replacement. While these systems remain operational today, proactively replacing them now helps prevent unexpected failures, emergency closures and significantly longer disruptions in the future.

Although the pools are currently operating safely, many of the systems supporting them are original equipment that have been in service for decades. Engineering evaluations identified key components, including filtration systems, heaters and supporting mechanical infrastructure, that require replacement to ensure the long-term reliability, safety and operation of the aquatic area. Addressing these needs now allows the Village to plan the work carefully rather than react to an emergency failure requiring a longer closure.

No. The pools remain safe, operational and compliant with all applicable health and safety requirements. The renovation project is being undertaken proactively to replace aging infrastructure before a major failure occurs. There is no immediate health or safety concern prompting the closure.

A major failure involving filtration, circulation or water treatment systems could require immediate closure of the pools for public health and safety reasons. In an emergency situation, engineering, permitting, Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) approvals, procurement of specialized aquatic equipment and construction would all need to occur before repairs could be completed. Given current lead times for specialized equipment, the closure could extend significantly beyond the current estimated construction period.

This investment is designed to ensure the long-term reliability, safety and quality of the aquatic facilities for current and future members. By replacing aging infrastructure before a major failure occurs, the Village can reduce the risk of unexpected shutdowns, improve system performance and extend the useful life of the aquatic area for years to come.

Critical Infrastructure Improvements Include: Expansion and renovation of the pool pump room; construction of a new underground surge tank; new chlorine room and storage room; replacement of aging filtration systems and heaters; and new filters and heaters for the men’s and women’s whirlpools. Additional Improvements Include: resurfacing of the lap and therapy pools, repair and replacement of pool lighting, installation of new chair lifts, painting of the pool area ceiling, repair and re-tiling of flooring and drains between the men’s locker room and pool area, and re-tiling of the men’s and women’s whirlpools.

Since the aquatic area will already be closed for critical infrastructure improvements, the Village is taking the opportunity to complete several additional improvements at the same time, including pool resurfacing, lighting upgrades, whirlpool tile replacement and accessibility enhancements. Completing this work during a single closure helps avoid multiple future shutdowns, reduces overall disruption to members and improves the overall aquatic experience when the facility reopens.

No. The primary purpose of the project is to replace critical aquatic infrastructure and modernize aging mechanical systems necessary for the continued operation of the pools and whirlpools. Visible improvements such as pool resurfacing, lighting upgrades and whirlpool tile replacement represent a small portion of the overall project and are being completed during the same closure to avoid additional shutdowns in the future.

While much of the work involves replacing critical infrastructure that members do not typically see, several visible improvements will also be completed, including resurfaced pools, improved lighting, new chair lifts, refreshed whirlpools, painted ceilings and renovated flooring between the men’s locker room and pool area. These improvements will enhance both the appearance and functionality of the aquatic area.

Construction will begin on Monday, September 14.

The project schedule is dependent upon the completion of permitting and regulatory approvals, contractor scheduling, and the procurement and delivery of specialized aquatic equipment. Construction could not begin until the necessary approvals were received. A full construction schedule will be established and communicated to members in the near future.

The current estimated construction timeline is approximately nine months.

This project involves much more than cosmetic improvements. Major work includes expanding and renovating the pool pump room, constructing a new underground surge tank, installing a new chlorine room, replacing filtration systems and heaters, and completing other infrastructure improvements that require specialized construction, inspections and regulatory approvals. The estimated timeline also accounts for permitting, equipment installation, testing and final approvals prior to reopening.

No. The current estimate is approximately nine months, however construction schedules can change based on permitting, inspections, equipment delivery, and construction conditions.

Yes. The project is currently under review by IDPH and will require regulatory approvals as part of the construction process.

Yes. The project impacts the lap pool, therapy pool, and whirlpools.

Yes. The sauna and steam room, and locker rooms will remain open and available for member use during the pool renovation project. These amenities are not impacted by the aquatic infrastructure improvements and are expected to operate as normal throughout the closure.

No. Aquatic fitness classes and programs will be suspended during the renovation period. However, low-impact class alternatives will be added to our class schedules as an alternative to our aqua class participants.

We offer several options to help you stay active while the aquatic area is closed. Members can schedule a complimentary Health Assessment and Fitness Orientation with a Fitness Specialist, who can help develop an exercise plan based on their goals and abilities. Members may also participate in group fitness classes, work with a Personal Trainer, enroll in MyFitRx and utilize VOLT.

There are several aquatic facilities in the surrounding area that members may wish to explore during the renovation project, including facilities operated by Moraine Valley, the Tinley Park District, Burr Ridge, Lifetime Fitness, and the Crestwood Recreation & Wellness Center.

• Life Time Fitness: (708) 364-0300, 16333 LaGrange Rd., Orland Park, IL 60467
• LA Fitness: (708) 429-7050, 18400 Convention Center Dr., Tinley Park, IL 60477
• Crestwood Recreation & Wellness Center: (708) 659-4800, 5331 W. 135th St., Crestwood, IL 60418
• Moraine Valley Community College: (708) 608-4000, 9000 College Pkwy., Palos Hills, IL 60465
• Matteson Community Center: (708) 441-4500, 20642 Matteson Ave., Matteson, IL 60443

Membership rates will not be reduced during the project. Members will continue to have access to the Health & Fitness Center’s fitness equipment, group fitness classes, walking track, gymnasium, locker rooms, sauna, steam room and other amenities throughout construction. For members whose primary use of the facility is aquatic programming, the Center is offering a membership hold option without penalty.

Yes. Members will have the option to place their membership on hold without penalty, at any time during the closure. Before the pools reopen, members will receive advance notice of the reopening date and when membership billing will resume. At that time, members may reactivate their membership or choose to cancel.

If you choose to place your annual membership on hold during the pool renovation project, your membership expiration date will be extended by the length of time your membership remains on hold. This ensures you receive the full term of membership that you originally purchased.

To request a hold, please call 708.226.0555 to speak with a Member Services Representative or visit our Membership Department.

Yes. Individual members of a couple or family membership may be placed on hold while other family member(s) remain active. During the hold, membership dues will be adjusted to reflect only the members who remain active.

Members may choose to place their membership on hold during the renovation project and utilize day passes or punch pass packages as needed.

Yes. Members whose memberships are on hold may continue to receive member pricing and utilize massage, facial, personal training, and special program services.

The Orland Park Health & Fitness Center will provide regular updates as project milestones are finalized. Members should watch for emails, signage, website updates, and facility communications.

Please stop by the Member Service Desk to update your email, for assistance downloading our Center’s app or for current pricing and details on available pass options.