EVANSTON — The Evanston Recreation Center threw a party celebrating its 40th anniversary on Saturday, Sept. 22.

“The party is not just a celebration of our past achievements, but also a reflection of the incredible support we’ve received from the Evanston community,” said EPRD Director Kim Larson. “For 40 years, EPRD has been at the heart of promoting wellness, fostering connections, and offering recreational opportunities that enhance the quality of life for everyone. We are incredibly proud of what we’ve accomplished,” she continued.

Larson, a former rec center lifeguard, noted that the facility has cultivated generations of lifelong memories for those raised in the community.

“Whether it was Junior Jazz basketball, gymnastics, swim lessons, fitness classes, many of us grew up with these programs,” she said. “Chances are you have been involved in one of these activities and now, we get to watch our own kids participate in the same programs that shaped us. Today, my 16-year-old daughter is a lifeguard and learning those same valuable skills.”

The celebratory occasion offered Larson the opportunity to unveil an architectural plan for a proposed aquatic center. The presentation featured a 3D walk-through.

“Our pool is 40 years old and has outlived its life expectancy. Someday soon the pool may fail beyond our repair. I would hate to see the community without a public pool,” she said.

Larson later told the Herald that the aquatic center plans were created by Burbach Aquatics and Albertson’s Engineering.

“These designs offer an exciting glimpse into what’s possible for the next generation of EPRD,” she said. “Our vision is focused on expanding recreational opportunities and building a state-of-the-art facility that will serve as a community hub for years to come.”

While funding has not been secured, it will be explored, including a possible tax ballot measure.

“Our goal is to ensure that this facility, and the benefits it will provide, are accessible to all members of our community,” Larson said. 

The party offered free building access for the day. Attendees were treated to a variety of free fitness classes, a pickleball tournament, pirate ship pool inflatable, two bouncy houses, kids’ crafts and art show, free burgers and hotdogs and live entertainment from the band Mountain Green.

“The 40th anniversary is just the beginning of the journey, and we look forward to working with the community to shape the future together,” Larson said.