The Oak Lawn Community High School District 229 Board of Education has officially approved the construction of a new $40 million fieldhouse. This state-of-the-art facility will offer students and the Oak Lawn community an innovative space for sports, fitness, school events, and community gatherings. With a focus on health, wellness, and sustainability, the fieldhouse is designed to create exciting opportunities for everyone.
Construction is scheduled to begin in spring 2025, with an expected completion timeline of approximately 18 months.
Key Features of the Fieldhouse
Patch reports that the new facility has been designed to meet the diverse needs of students and the broader community. Highlights of the project include:
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Modern Indoor Athletic Spaces
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Facilities for competitive sports, physical education classes, and team training sessions.
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Flexible areas for recreational activities, fitness programs, and general exercise.
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Versatile Event Spaces
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Large multipurpose areas for school assemblies, community events, and extracurricular programs.
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Spaces built to host a variety of activities that engage both students and local residents.
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Upgraded Fitness Rooms and Locker Facilities
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Eight fitness rooms to support gym classes, wellness programs, and strength training.
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Upgraded locker rooms with modern amenities for physical education students and athletes.
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Sustainability and Environmental Design
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Underground water retention tanks under the parking lot to manage rainwater runoff and prevent flooding.
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Energy-efficient materials and systems designed to reduce environmental impact and promote sustainability.
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Seamless Campus Integration
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The fieldhouse will connect to the south end of the campus along 95th Street, making it easily accessible for students, staff, and visitors.
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Funding the Project
The total cost of the fieldhouse is $40 million, funded through a balanced financial plan:
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$21.6 million will come from bonds approved by the District 229 Board of Education.
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The remaining funds will be covered using district savings set aside for capital improvement projects.
Assistant Superintendent Joe McCurdy explained that the budget covers all critical elements, including:
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Architectural design and site preparation
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Utility work, permits, and construction management fees
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Installation of the underground rainwater retention system
This careful financial planning ensures the project moves forward efficiently while staying within the district's budgetary goals.
Promoting Wellness and Physical Health
The Oak Lawn fieldhouse represents a growing trend in high school design: creating spaces that support physical fitness and mental well-being. Beyond team sports, the facility will include programs and activities such as:
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Fitness Training: Strength training, cardio exercises, and personalized fitness programs.
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Yoga and Dance: Spaces for mindfulness, relaxation, and recreational activities that promote balance and mental health.
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Recreational Sports: Inclusive activities designed for students of all skill levels and abilities.
The new fieldhouse will provide:
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Improved Athletic Programs: Professional-grade spaces for student-athletes and teams to train and compete.
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Enhanced Educational Opportunities: A flexible environment for physical education, school events, and assemblies.
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Stronger Community Connections: A central hub for local events, gatherings, and recreational programs, helping to bring residents together.
Construction Timeline
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Start Date: Spring 2025
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Estimated Completion: Late 2026 (approximately 18 months)
Conclusion
The Oak Lawn High School’s new fieldhouse is more than just a building—it’s a commitment to growth, health, and community development. With modern athletic spaces, versatile event areas, and a focus on sustainability, this $40 million investment will provide long-lasting benefits for students, families, and local residents. Once completed, the fieldhouse will stand as a symbol of progress, opportunity, and pride for District 229.
