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Construction crews work to protect Northwestern’s South Campus shoreline

University shares updates on detours and ongoing facilities improvements
August 15, 2024 | By Kayla Driessen
campus construction
Following record-high lake levels in recent years, Northwestern is making improvements along the southeast edge of campus to protect the shoreline from erosion. While improvements are in process, parts of the pedestrian path in that area will be closed until work is completed in June 2025. Northwestern Now staff photos

The summer months brought a wave of construction projects to Northwestern’s Evanston campus, as crews work to enhance the experience for students, faculty and staff.

Most recently, work has begun to protect the University’s South Campus shoreline and redevelop the Cohen Lawn east of Norris University Center. This work will cause disruptions to pedestrian pathways throughout the fall.

Ongoing and scheduled projects align with the University’s strategic priorities in academics and the student experience, as well as athletics facilities and essential campus infrastructure.

Northwestern is committed to accessibility and sustainability in all facility enhancements, and crews are making every effort to minimize disruptions to the campus and Evanston communities during construction. Additionally, the Office for Research is working with Facilities Management and the schools to minimize the impact of construction to research activities on North Campus and will communicate directly with those who might be affected.

The following provides updates on several campus projects, including suggested detours for pedestrians.

Shoreline improvements planned in response to record-high lake levels

Following record-high lake levels in recent years, Northwestern is making improvements along the southeast edge of campus to protect the shoreline from erosion.

The pedestrian bridge on the southern edge of the cooling pond is closed as crews install a new bridge. Opening in January 2025, the new structure will accommodate emergency vehicles, improving emergency response capabilities along the lakefill.

This fall, crews will begin work to extend the pier on the south edge of campus to better protect Northwestern’s Sailing Center and beach. The Sailing Center beach will be closed from September through June 2025.

Parts of the pedestrian path along the southeastern edge of campus will be closed until work is completed in June 2025. During construction, pedestrians are advised to follow the footpath that runs west of the Segal Visitor’s Center and the Wirtz Center for the Performing Arts. The University will post signage to reroute pedestrian traffic along the lakefront path and bridge for periodic closures during construction.

Learn more about the shoreline improvements project.

nm field
The new Northwestern Medicine Field at Martin Stadium will provide a stunning backdrop for the Northwestern football, soccer and lacrosse teams during the 2024 and 2025 seasons.

Northwestern Medicine Field at Martin Stadium will open soon

Construction is well underway to get Northwestern Medicine Field at Martin Stadium on Northwestern’s Evanston lakefront ready for football gamedays. Construction of the temporary structure, which was announced in April, is expected to be completed by mid-August.

The new facility will provide a stunning backdrop for the Northwestern football, soccer and lacrosse teams during the 2024 and 2025 seasons. Bridging the gap between the old Ryan Field and the new state-of-the-art stadium, which is scheduled to open in 2026, the facility will create a home field on campus for the Wildcats — including bleachers and enclosed box seats with a capacity of approximately 12,000 — with expansive views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline. Plus, two designated areas on campus will transform into a football festival and gameday tailgating experience for fans and guests.

To prepare and secure both the playing field and tailgating areas at Hutcheson Field and the lakefill, Northwestern will close some parking lots and the lakefill area the night before games. The full schedule and ticket information can be found here.

Learn more about Northwestern Medicine Field at Martin Stadium.

Demolition complete as crews prepare for the new Ryan Field

Northwestern is replacing its 97-year-old football stadium, creating a facility that is smaller, more environmentally friendly and accessible as a community venue throughout the year.

Demolition of the existing structure was completed in June, and crews have spent the summer preparing foundations for the future stadium and excavating the site for the new, below-grade field. Steel structure for the new stadium is expected to begin going up around the new year, with construction complete by the start of the 2026 football season.

The new, privately funded stadium will be a catalyst for local economic growth, bringing new jobs, boosting local businesses and creating a vibrant cultural hub in Evanston.

Learn more about plans to redevelop Ryan Field.

Redevelopment of the Cohen Lawn will create new space to relax and socialize

Redevelopment of the Cohen Lawn — an open area adjacent to Norris University Center formerly known as the East Lawn — will transform the space into a welcoming outdoor destination with stunning views of nearby Lake Michigan. A pub will be the centerpiece of the new space, along with a rooftop patio, covered performance pavilion and fire pits.

The redevelopment includes improvements to site utilities, stormwater infrastructure, pedestrian pathways, landscaping and the outdoor plaza area.

Construction began in June and is expected to be completed in Fall Quarter 2025. During this time, the Cohen Lawn and adjacent paths along the cooling pond edge will be inaccessible to pedestrians. Detour signage will be posted.

Learn more about the Cohen Lawn redevelopment.
Jacobs Center
Jacobs Center renovations began last spring, with expected completion by fall 2026. Adjacent sidewalks will be closed intermittently through 2025. Detour signage will be posted for pedestrian foot traffic.

Jacobs Center renovation creates collaborative space to address societal issues

A three-year renovation of the Donald P. Jacobs Center at 2001 Sheridan Road is well underway as crews transform the building into a hub for social sciences and global studies. The renovated building will include classrooms, meeting and seminar rooms, labs, offices, dining areas and gathering spaces for students and faculty.

Renovations began in April 2024, with expected completion by fall 2026. Adjacent sidewalks will be closed intermittently through 2025. Detour signage will be posted for pedestrian foot traffic.

Learn more about the Donald P. Jacobs Center renovations.

Deering Library renovations will enhance the facility while preserving its history

Deering Library is undergoing renovations to improve accessibility, upgrade technology, increase collaboration opportunities and restore and preserve its historic features. The upgrades will enhance building infrastructure and prominent public spaces, including the Eloise W. Martin Reading Room, the third-floor lobby and room 208, a reading room and event space.

Renovations began in June and are expected to last through September 2025. Deering Library will be inaccessible during this time. Library staff will be available upon request to retrieve materials from Deering Library’s collections.

Learn more about the Deering Library renovations.

Central Utility Plant to undergo equipment upgrades

New equipment in the Central Utility Plant will ensure the reliability of campus heating and cooling operations. A short portion of Campus Drive will be closed to vehicular traffic between Northwestern Place and the University Library through the week of Aug. 26. Pedestrian walkways will remain open, and the work will not cause any disruption to utility services.

Learn more about the Central Utility Plant equipment upgrades.

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