The Park District of Oak Park is set to break ground on a brand-new Field Center building at Field Park, replacing the outdated 99-year-old facility that currently serves the community. Located near Horace Mann Elementary School at 929 Berkshire Street, this long-awaited project is designed to support modern programming needs and provide safe, accessible spaces for Oak Park families.
Construction will begin in August 2025 and is expected to be completed by June 2026.
Project Overview and Investment
The Park District board approved a contract with Liebe Construction Services, LLC of Mundelein, Illinois, for an amount not to exceed $3.98 million. The district has allocated $2.8 million toward the new Field Center in its 2025 capital improvement plan and an additional $1 million in park-wide enhancements projected for 2026.
The new Field Center will span 4,600 square feet and include:
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Dance classrooms for youth programming
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A small indoor stage for children’s performing arts events
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Design features to streamline preschool and after-care pick-up and drop-off
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Expanded space for summer camps and after-school programs
Continuity During Construction
The current Field Center—designed in 1926 by noted Oak Park architect John Van Bergen—will remain open during construction to allow programs to continue without disruption.
Additional details:
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The 3–5-year-old playground and splashpad will stay open for as long as project conditions permit
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The north playground will be removed in August 2025 and donated to the nonprofit Kids Around the World
Community Concerns and Design Adjustments
Wednesday Journal reports that while the new facility is widely supported, nearby residents have raised concerns about the impact on the park’s layout and traffic. These include:
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Reduced tree coverage and changes to park topography
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Removal of the berm at the northwest corner of the site
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Traffic congestion during construction and long-term use
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Litter and safety along a new walkway connecting the Field Center and surrounding streets
These concerns are being addressed as final plans are completed in partnership with Liebe Construction.
Construction Workforce and Trades Involved
A wide range of skilled trades and construction professionals will be involved in the build, contributing to job creation and local economic activity. Workers needed for this project include:
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Site preparation crews for demolition and grading
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Concrete workers for foundation and slab work
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Framers and carpenters for structural framing and interior finishes
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Electricians to install lighting, outlets, and building systems
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Plumbers and HVAC technicians for climate control and water service
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Roofers and waterproofing specialists to ensure the building is weather-resistant
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Painters, drywall installers, and flooring specialists for interior finishes
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Landscapers for final site grading, sod, and planting near pathways and entrances
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Project managers and safety inspectors to oversee work progress and compliance
This scope of work provides a significant boost for skilled trades and reinforces the Park District’s commitment to investing in both infrastructure and jobs.
Design Process and Community Engagement
In a nod to history, the Park District selected the design through a modern architectural competition, just as it did for the original center nearly 100 years ago. This helped ensure that the new facility blends functionality with a respectful nod to the community’s architectural heritage.
The building is designed to be modern, efficient, and welcoming, with improved access, updated amenities, and room to grow with future programming needs.
A Facility for the Future
Once complete, the new Field Center will provide a safe, modern, and welcoming environment for Oak Park’s children and families while supporting critical community programs.
