LOREL PARK

Lorel Park was purchased in 1937 from some of the proceeds of the sale of 21 acres of Oakton/Emily Parks for the construction of Niles East High School (now Oakton Community College). Development soon followed with the construction of a stone shelter, spray pool and a ball field area, which also served as an outdoor skating rink during the winter months. The rink was eventually abandoned, and the spray pool was demolished in 1990. In 1991 redevelopment of the park took place for a total cost of $189,000 and included water service replacements, playground, picnic tables, benches, and other site amenities, drinking fountain, internal walks, basketball court and tennis court resurfacing and color coat. Landscape improvements including trees, shrubs, sodding. The park shelter was rebuilt the following year for $73,000. Playground improvements were made in 1998.