SPRINGFIELD — A solution for a land use problem between Brookfield Zoo, Riverside Brookfield High School and the Forest Preserves of Cook County could be reached thanks to efforts from State Senator Mike Porfirio.

“Not only does this legislation create a safe baseball field for the students of Riverside Brookfield High School, but it also ensures that Brookfield Zoo has secure, sufficient parking for their visitors,” said Porfirio (D-Lyons Township). “I am proud we are able to achieve an outcome that leaves all parties involved in this scenario in a better spot.”

Currently, Brookfield Zoo leases their land from the Forest Preserves of Cook County, including a section that abuts Riverside Brookfield High School to the north. The zoo has allowed the school to use this space for baseball games, but at times uses it for overflow parking when the zoo has high attendance. This often causes disruptions in existing school sports schedules, and safety hazards like ruts left behind on the fields by parked cars. Brookfield Zoo does not have the authority to sublease their land.

Senate Bill 637, introduced by Senator Porfirio, would allow Brookfield Zoo to sublease or license the land within its boundaries for recreational use. The bill paves the way for Brookfield Zoo to invest in alternative parking around the zoo, and permits space for Riverside Brookfield High School to enter a sublease with the zoo and use the land for a new baseball stadium.

"District 208 is thrilled to partner with Brookfield Zoo following the passage of Senate Bill 637” said Dr. Kevin Skinkis, superintendent of Riverside Brookfield High School District 208. “This initiative has been a topic of discussion for several decades, and we are enthusiastic about the positive impact this legislation will have on the students of Riverside Brookfield High School and the visitors of Brookfield Zoo."

“We’re thrilled by the passage of SB637, which allows us to formally negotiate and enter into an agreement with the High School for shared use of property within the borders of Brookfield Zoo Chicago,” said Jennifer Baader, the senior vice president of government affairs for Brookfield Zoo. “As long-standing neighbors and partners, our collaboration with the High School reflects our ongoing commitment to community engagement. We view this partnership as an opportunity to support local education and youth development in a meaningful and collaborative way.”

Senate Bill 637 passed the House on Thursday.