History of Three Oaks: From Excavation Site to Beach Front

Rakow and Pingree Roads formerly ran along the perimeter of several excavation sites run by Vulcan Materials, a company that began mining the site over 60 years ago. After the construction company moved on, the pits were filled with water and left to the discretion of the .

The discussion and creation of has taken place on government committees for over 10 years, unbeknownst to many residents of Crystal Lake, beginning with one whose appointments were made by Mayor Wells in 1994.

By 2003 there was a conceptual plan finalized for the area and by 2006 the last Vulcan-owned excavation site was turned over to the City of Crystal Lake. Contracts were awarded to local contractors and a home-rule tax was enacted to offset the cost for the facility which, overtime, would pay for itself.

“Three Oaks Recreation Area was a product of the City Council as well as various community groups, including a study committee,” explained then construction manager and deputy city manager of Crystal Lake Eric Helm.

The committee was led by various members of the community who “studied the concept of a recreation center and provided valuable ideas for the type of amenities for Three Oaks,” according to Helm.

On Friday, Oct. 1, 2010 the area was dedicated and opened the following day.