From eyesore to opportunity: Demolition begins at Tinley Park Mental Health Center site
TINLEY PARK, Ill. - Tinley Park’s long-vacant mental health center is finally coming down, marking the start of a major redevelopment effort.
On Thursday, workers demolished Building 6, the fourth of 47 structures slated for removal at the site, which has been an eyesore in the community for over a decade.
Permits for demolition are issued one at a time by Cook County, with six granted so far. Village officials called the process "lengthy but necessary."
What we know:
The Tinley Park Mental Health Center, the last state hospital built in Illinois, once served patients with severe mental health challenges, including schizophrenia and suicide risk. However, years of neglect turned the 280-acre property into a landscape of overgrown grass, vandalized buildings, and piles of debris.
Demolition crews have already removed asbestos and hauled away trash, with air quality monitored daily by an independent company during the process. Workers are also using water hoses to keep contaminants out of the air.
What we don't know:
While the village has ruled out a casino for the site, details on other potential uses remain vague. Officials have hinted at possibilities beyond the planned recreation center and sports complex, but specifics have not yet been announced.
"There was a plan for 90 acres originally to be redeveloped for the park. So that’s being talked through with the Board of Commissioners and I’m sure some developers are on board also," said Michael Maloney, Park District Project Manager.
Community input will play a role in shaping the future of the site once environmental cleanup is completed.
What's next:
Tinley Park leaders envision a first-class recreation center with a regional sports complex to revitalize the area.
In the coming months, the Park District plans to engage with the community to gather feedback on ideas for the site, ensuring the redevelopment reflects the needs of local residents.