News Summary
District 218 is set to invest $79 million in upgrades to athletic facilities at Eisenhower and Shepard High Schools. This initiative includes the construction of new field houses, theater expansions, and gym renovations aimed at enhancing student athletic experiences. The Eisenhower field house will feature a comprehensive range of athletic facilities, while enhancements at other schools reflect a commitment to improving educational standards. Construction is expected to be completed by December 2025 and August 2026 for the respective high schools, with funding strategies outlined to support the project.
District 218 Unveils $79 Million Athletic Facility Upgrades
District 218 officials have unveiled plans for significant upgrades to athletic facilities across district schools, dedicating a total of $79 million towards the construction of new field houses as well as various other improvements. This ambitious project aims to enhance the athletic experiences of students at Eisenhower and Shepard High Schools.
Construction Timelines Set for New Field Houses
The construction of the Eisenhower High School field house is scheduled to be completed by December 2025, with a slightly later completion date for the Shepard High School field house, which is expected to open in August 2026. Both field houses will serve as comprehensive athletic spaces designed to enhance physical education and sports programs.
Theater Expansions and Other Upcoming Changes
In addition to new field houses, there are plans for theater expansions at both Eisenhower and Shepard High Schools, which are aiming for completion this summer. More construction related to these expansions is set to commence early next year, indicating a broader commitment to improving facility offerings across the district.
Funding Mechanisms for the Projects
Financially, Business Manager Anthony Corsi outlined updated plans, which involve selling over $18 million in bonds during the 2025-2026 fiscal year. Approximately two-thirds of the total project costs will be financed through the district’s reserve funds, while the remaining costs will be incurred as debt. The district is focused on avoiding a referendum for additional funding, thus bridging the gap between current funds and the amount required for these projects.
District 218’s Competitive Edge
Superintendent Josh Barron emphasized the necessity of this investment as a means to keep up with neighboring districts that are also enhancing their athletic facilities. For instance, Oak Lawn High School, part of District 229, is constructing its own field house with a budget of $40 million, projected to be completed by fall 2026.
Facilities Overview
The new Eisenhower field house will cover 35,000 square feet and will include a four-lane, 160-meter track, a 4,000-square-foot weight room, a batting cage, climbing wall, long jump pit, and a pole vault area. In contrast, the Shepard field house will have a slightly smaller configuration, featuring a weight room of similar size, a three-lane, 130-meter track, two batting cages, along with a long jump pit and a pole vault area.
Both field houses are designed to include three basketball/volleyball courts connected through athletic commons and corridors to their respective schools, fostering an inviting atmosphere for both practice and games.
Logistical Considerations for Construction
Families of students can expect updates regarding ongoing construction activities, particularly concerning any inconveniences related to traffic or parking during the fall. Current evaluations indicate that traffic around Eisenhower is not likely to be affected, while logistical arrangements for Shepard are still under review. An update will be communicated to parents during the week of August 4.
Planned Enhancements at Other Schools
Richards High School, while not receiving a new field house due to spatial constraints, will undergo gym renovations starting in spring 2026 with an aim to complete the upgrades by the following year. The updated gym is expected to cover 7,000 square feet and will cater specifically to physical education classes. Further changes will involve administrative office relocations planned between December 2025 and April 2026, aimed at optimizing space and functionality.
Overall, these upgrades and enhancements signal a significant investment in the facilities of District 218, reflecting a commitment to student experience and athletic development that aligns with contemporary educational and competitive standards.
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Additional Resources
- Chicago Tribune: District 218 Unveils $79 Million Athletic Facility Upgrades
- NBC Chicago: Several Chicago Area Schools Announce Closures Ahead of Expected Snow
- Patch: OLCHS Dist 229 Board Approves $41.6M Budget for New Field House
- New York Times: House Trans Athletes
- TownLift: Park City School District Board of Education Approves $38 Million Toward Treasure Mountain Sports Complex
