McHugh Construction, in partnership with Nacional Group, LLC, has officially begun preconstruction on the new Wagner Community Center for the Elmhurst Park District. Replacing the current 32,000-square-foot center at 615 N. West Ave., this two-story, 127,250-square-foot facility will break ground in December 2025, with a grand opening scheduled for fall 2027.
Why Build New? A Strategic Upgrade Over Renovation
Originally designed as an elementary school nearly 70 years ago, the existing Wagner Community Center is no longer suitable for today’s community needs. Purchased in 2003 from MacCormac College and partially renovated in 2004, the building presents numerous challenges:
Poor insulation and lack of water infiltration protection in exterior walls
Doors and windows that fail to meet modern energy codes
A roof that requires complete replacement
Restrictive ceiling heights limiting program flexibility
Multiple accessibility shortcomings
Mechanical systems outdated and designed for school use
Inadequate security, particularly for early childhood areas
Insufficient electrical capacity for expansion
Most notably, the current facility lacks the square footage needed to meet public demand. A feasibility study by Dewberry Architects concluded that replacing the structure would be the most cost-effective and efficient path forward.
New Design Highlights: Purpose-Built for Recreation and Learning
The new Wagner Community Center is packed with features designed to support the Park District’s expanding programs:
27,285 sq ft gymnasium for basketball, pickleball, volleyball, and more
24,700 sq ft indoor turf field, sized at 60 x 40 yards (U9 soccer regulation)
Three-lane walking/jogging track, just under 1/8 mile or 8.6 laps per mile
Expanded early childhood and preschool zones with secure access
Larger studios for gymnastics and dance instruction
Indoor play zone for young children
Versatile multipurpose rooms for classes, meetings, and community events
REBusiness reports that these amenities reflect direct feedback from residents and aim to reduce waitlists while broadening access to diverse programming.
Team Behind the Build: Integrated Design and Engineering
The project’s success hinges on a collaborative team of experienced professionals:
Architect: Dewberry (Elmhurst office)
MEP Engineer: Elara Engineering
Structural Engineer: Pease Borst & Associates
Civil Engineer: V3 Companies
Landscape Architect: Upland Designs Ltd.
Together, they are committed to delivering a functional, energy-efficient, and modern facility that meets the long-term needs of the Elmhurst community.
Opportunities for the Construction Workforce
This large-scale public infrastructure project will provide significant work for tradespeople and contractors. Key workforce components include:
Demolition teams for tearing down the existing building in fall 2025
Site prep and excavation crews to prepare foundations
Structural framing and concrete teams for core construction
Mechanical, electrical, and plumbing trades (MEP) to install essential building systems
Finish carpenters and painters to complete the interior
Specialty installers for HVAC, security, and data systems
Landscaping and exterior finishing crews to round out the site
This two-year project offers robust employment and is expected to create a ripple effect across Elmhurst’s construction and supplier industries.
Interim Program Continuity During Construction
While the new center is under construction, the Park District will continue offering programming through alternative venues, including existing district facilities and other community spaces. The aim is to maintain as many services as possible until the new building is operational.
A Long-Term Investment in Community Health and Access
At nearly four times the size of its predecessor, the new Wagner Community Center is designed with flexibility, inclusivity, and sustainability at its core. From toddler programs to adult recreation and senior wellness, it addresses the evolving recreational needs of a growing community.
The new facility is not just a physical expansion—it’s a statement of commitment to public health, active living, and community engagement. By fall 2027, Elmhurst will be home to a premier community center that reflects both resident priorities and modern construction excellence.