The publicly owned Palatine will close this fall after some seven decades of equestrian operations.
Palatine Park District

The publicly owned Palatine Stables will close this fall after some seven decades of equestrian operations, the Palatine Park District has announced.

“While the memories of pony rides and show ribbons are recounted by many, the unfortunate reality is that expense of operations and fiscal responsibility to the taxpayers have resulted in a decision to end programming at the end of the summer season,” a lengthy statement on the park district’s website reads. “Boarding operations will continue through November.”

Built in the 1950s on the southeast corner of Northwest Highway and Dundee Road, the operation was privately owned until 1988, when it was acquired by the park district.

“Considering the advanced age and condition of the facility, the (park board was) compelled to make the difficult decision to cease operations,” the park district’s statement reads. “The considerable financial investment required for the mandated renovations could not be reasonably justified.”

District officials said efforts are underway to secure new homes for the 36 district-owned horses and ponies at the facility, as well as 25 horses being boarded there.

Plans are underway to gather community input for how the property should be re-purposed, according to the district’s statement

This is a developing story. Come back to dailyherald.com for more details.

Palatine Stables is closing this year after some seven decades of equestrian operations, the Palatine Park District has announced.
Courtesy of Palatine Park District