John Shea: Park Ridge is lucky to have you!

We asked John Shea, Park Ridge Park District Executive Director, about Oakton Park's recent solar project. Here's what we learned.

The solar installation at Oakton Sports Complex reflects how our community can bring sustainability into everyday spaces where people gather, play, and connect. As the Park Ridge Park District continues to invest in modern facilities, we also look for opportunities to make responsible choices that support the long-term health of our community and environment.

Oakton is one of the District’s most energy-intensive facilities, serving thousands of residents each year through athletics, recreation, and community programs, so incorporating solar energy was a meaningful way to reduce the building’s environmental impact.
 
The solar array includes more than 1,000 panels and is expected to generate approximately 684.7 megawatt hours of clean energy annually. By producing a significant portion of the facility’s electricity on site, the system helps reduce carbon emissions while also lowering long-term operating costs.

Projects like this demonstrate local communities can take practical, measurable steps toward sustainability while continuing to provide high-quality spaces and services for residents.

This project was made possible through the dedication and collaboration of many people. I am grateful to Lauren Blackburn, April Armer, Brent Dolan, and Terry Wolf for their time, expertise, and commitment in helping bring the project to completion.

I would also like to thank the Park Ridge Park District Board of Commissioners for their continued support and vision in prioritizing sustainability initiatives like this one. Investments like this help ensure that Park Ridge remains a community where we truly love where we live/(work), today and for generations to come.