The old bathhouse is a bathhouse no more.
On Monday, July 14, residents stepped into the newly renovated Memorial Activity Center for the first time, ushering in a new chapter for the aging brick building that once served as Memorial Pool. Built decades ago as a bathhouse — a locker-room-style facility where swimmers changed and showered — the structure had sat mostly unused since the pool closed.
Now, after years of dormancy, the space has been transformed into a hub for senior programming, and the community turned out to celebrate.
“We listened to the feedback from the community about wanting a dedicated space for senior programming, and we’re proud to see that happen,” said Tom Hartwig, executive director of the Oak Lawn Park District. “This project has been a long time coming.”
Located at 5725 W. 102nd St., the Memorial Activity Center now features two bright, multi-use rooms with TVs, a commercial-grade kitchen, restrooms, offices, and a welcoming new entrance.
Guests toured the new facility, talked with staff and volunteers, and previewed the kinds of programs already underway. Residents mingled, peeked into game rooms and settled into chairs where movie screenings and fitness classes will take place.
Construction began on November 27 and wrapped up on June 30.
“We’re very excited for the added space for senior programming and are grateful to the Village of Oak Lawn for partnering with us to bring this to the community,” said Justin Waters, marketing manager for the Oak Lawn Park District.
Programs began June 30, with regular offerings like bridge, pinochle, yoga, movies and social gatherings drawing residents back each week.
“The seniors have had a great time using the new space since they started their programs,” Waters said.
Much of the funding came from a $2.1 million grant awarded through the Park and Recreational Facility Construction Act, part of Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s Rebuild Illinois capital program. Waters noted the Village of Oak Lawn also contributed to construction costs.
During the ribbon cutting ceremony, President of the Oak Lawn Park Foundation, Steve Loulousis, presented the Oak Lawn Park District with a check for $1,000.
“This doesn’t happen without support at every level,” Hartwig said. “We’re incredibly grateful to Senator Bill Cunningham, former state Rep. Kelly Burke and the Illinois Association of Park Districts for helping us secure the funding.”
Hartwig added the Memorial Activity Center is proudly a dedicated, permanent space for seniors in Oak Lawn.
