Demolition set to begin at Ryan Field
University provides updated project information for the community
- Link to: Northwestern Now Story
As construction fences go up around Ryan Field, Northwestern University is announcing measures to keep the community informed of upcoming milestones and ensure transparency and engagement with the community throughout the construction process at the University’s athletics campus.
“A vital component of this project is communication with our stadium neighbors,” Senior Executive Director of Neighborhood and Community Relations Dave Davis said. “We have been in conversation with residents throughout the approval process and look forward to building on that relationship as we move into the demolition and construction phases of the project.”
On Friday, the University launched an updated Rebuild Ryan Field website, which will feature new information about project milestones and efforts to minimize disruptions to the surrounding neighborhood. The construction manager, Central Street Consortium, a joint venture between Turner Construction Company and Walsh Construction, will post periodic updates to the site throughout the project.
“We are excited to begin the work to create a best-in-class experience for our fans and student-athletes and offer new event opportunities for local non-profits and community organizations,” Vice President of Operations and Chief Operating Officer Luke Figora said. “This is an exciting but complex project, and we are committed to being as communicative as possible with our neighbors throughout.”
“On behalf of our student-athletes, coaches and staff, we want to thank the community for their support of this project,” said Combe Family Vice President of Athletics and Recreation Dr. Derrick Gragg. “This state-of-the-art venue will be transformational for Northwestern Athletics and become the crown jewel of facilities in Evanston.”
The updated website answers questions frequently raised by the community regarding traffic management and noise, light pollution and debris during demolition and construction.
It highlights the prohibition of truck idling, queuing or parking in the adjacent residential zones and the careful placement of lighting to prevent direct shining into neighboring homes and surrounding buildings.
“Turner Construction and Walsh Construction are proud to be part of this monumental project,” said Kate Van Zeyl and John Kiesling of Central Street Consortium. “We look forward to safely delivering a world-class athletics facility on campus, while continuing a trusted partnership with Northwestern University and the neighboring communities.”
Central Street Consortium’s construction management plan emphasizes its dedication to environmental stewardship and strict compliance with local, county and state regulations for mitigation strategies. Furthermore, it released plans to monitor vibration throughout the process, with six monitors — placed at various locations throughout the project site — that will feed monthly reports to the City of Evanston.
“This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to improve both Northwestern and the City of Evanston in ways that will last for generations,” Davis said.
The University will continue to update the site throughout the project with important construction updates as well as answers to frequently asked questions. Residents seeking information about the project can visit rebuildryanfield.com or submit a service request via the City of Evanston’s 311 system.