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 Enhancements
Officials from District 218 have announced ambitious plans to invest $79 million in upgrades to athletic facilities, which include the construction of new field houses at Eisenhower and Shepard High Schools. These enhancements are aimed at elevating the school district’s athletic programs and facilities, ensuring that they remain competitive against neighboring districts.
Field House Construction Timelines
The construction of the 35,000-square-foot field house at Eisenhower High School is progressing smoothly and is anticipated to be completed by December 2025. Meanwhile, the field house at Shepard High School is scheduled for completion by August 2026. Both facilities are set to feature advanced amenities tailored for student athletes.
Theater Expansions Also Underway
In addition to the new field houses, both Eisenhower and Shepard High Schools are undergoing theater expansions, which are expected to wrap up this summer. Further construction activities for these projects are slated to begin early next year, enhancing the campuses’ commitment to offering a holistic educational experience.
Funding Strategy Explained
During a recent meeting, business manager Anthony Corsi shared revised financing plans to cover the costs associated with the various construction projects. The district plans to issue over $18 million in bonds during the 2025-2026 fiscal year, with about two-thirds of the project’s expenses being covered by the district’s available reserve funds. The remaining costs are likely to be financed through debt, as the administration aims to avoid putting a funding referendum to voters.
Board Meeting Discussion
Parameters for the upcoming bond sale are set to be discussed during a board meeting scheduled for August 21, marking a critical step in financing the enhancements. The district is determined to ensure that the investment translates into state-of-the-art facilities that keep pace with improvements made by surrounding schools, such as the $40 million field house being built at Oak Lawn High School, part of District 229, expected to open in fall 2026.
Facility Features and Specifications
The planned Eisenhower field house will incorporate a four-lane, 160-meter track, a spacious 4,000-square-foot weight room, a batting cage, a climbing wall, and designated areas for long jump and pole vaulting. Conversely, the Shepard field house will include a slightly smaller weight room and a three-lane, 130-meter track, along with two batting cages and similar field event areas. Both facilities will also feature three dual-purpose basketball and volleyball courts, designed to enhance athletic functionality.
Impact on Traffic and Future Plans
Traffic and parking at Eisenhower High School are expected to remain stable this fall, although logistical adjustments for Shepard’s construction are currently being assessed. Families will receive updates from the school regarding progress and planning during the week of August 4.
Richards High School and Other Developments
Richards High School, however, will not receive a new field house due to space limitations; instead, it has plans to renovate its existing gym, a project expected to begin in spring 2026 and conclude the following year. This updated gym will span 7,000 square feet and is specifically designed for physical education classes. Additionally, there are plans to relocate administrative offices at Richards between December 2025 and April 2026.
The Future of Athletics in District 218
Superintendent Josh Barron emphasized the importance of these upgrades for the district’s athletic programs. With the expected openings of the new field houses and renovated gyms, District 218 is set to not only enhance its athletic offerings but also foster a competitive environment for its 5,429 students across Eisenhower, Richards, and Shepard High Schools.
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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
