What do Wilmette residents think about Gillson Park?
For over 40 years, residents have repeatedly told the Park District that Gillson is an important part of their lives and our community. We like it as it is - a simple, beautiful park offering access to the beach, Lake Michigan, open space, and plenty of trees. Gillson benefits our well-being and quality of life and is a major reason that many of us chose to live here. We ask the Park District to leave it alone. Stop trying to monetize it. Take care of what is there now. The July 2021 Park District community survey told them that (and you can read more about it here). So did the failed 2015 $14.5 million referendum that would have added extensive concrete and more, larger structures to both Langdon and Gillson.
“Anything done should be ecologically sound, protective and supportive of the environment with a view toward maintaining the park for future generations.”
— Comment seen in the Board Update Presentation on 08/09/2021 regarding the 2021 community survey
In the 2016 scientifically-based aQity survey, 83% of residents reported satisfaction with Gillson, and 78% said that preserving open space was their #1 priority.
— 2016 aQity Survey
Wilmette residents’ priorities for the Gillson Park landscape and lakefront have been consistent for over 40 years:
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Trees & Landscape
Develop and implement a comprehensive landscape plan that protects existing trees and shrubs, preserves natural and open spaces, and offers year-round beneficial habitat to birds, pollinators, and other wildlife
Steward responsibly and intentionally, treating Gillson Park foremost as a park, not a source of revenue for the Park District
Endorse scientific research that shows that mature trees are vital infrastructure in the fight against climate change and cannot be replaced with new, young saplings, no matter how many
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Infrastructure
No additional roads, parking or paved areas or structures in the park
Repair roads and sewers as needed
Recognize that entrances, exits, and traffic pattern have worked well for years, allowing cars, boat trailers, emergency, and Coast Guard vehicles to move in the park
Use public funds responsibly and prudently
Work with the Village to create satellite parking sites at the CTA, Metra and local schools
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Park Use
Leave Lakeview Center as is. No redesign or expansion to allow unwarranted programming or larger private events, especially on summer weekends
Reject proposed park overuse and activities that could be better accommodated elsewhere
Acknowledge and accept that there are myriad ways that residents use Gillson, including to explore, using the park passively, rather than for programmed, structured activities
Encourage and incentivize visitors to walk and bike to the park
