Chicago Park District plans new fieldhouse in Washington Heights

The Chicago Park District will build a new fieldhouse at Jackie Robinson Park at 10540 S. Morgan. Located in Washington Heights, the new building will replace the existing Chicago Public Schools single-floor annex building that has been vacant since the 2010s. The new safe space will accommodate the community’s growing demand for diverse, year-round programming for multi-generational park visitors.

“A new fieldhouse is a meaningful addition to any community that acts as an anchor for personal enrichment, wellness, creative development, recreation, and socialization,” said Chicago Park District Superintendent & CEO Rosa Escareño. “With support from our local elected officials, the Park District is empowered to build places like the Jackie Robinson Park fieldhouse that address community needs, contribute to the betterment of quality of life of our residents and help strengthen our neighborhoods.” 

Designed by Booth Hansen, the new 18,000 sq. ft. fieldhouse will feature a compact and efficient design with welcoming entrances to connect the building to the adjacent park, Mt. Vernon Elementary School and the recently opened Nature Play Space. The new fieldhouse will include a full-sized gymnasium, two multipurpose clubrooms, a fitness center, a teen room, a pantry, restrooms, offices, lobby, and storage space. 

A $15 million State of Illinois, Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) grant supported by Rep. Slaughter will bring the much-anticipated addition to the 12.3-acre park, located in the Washington Heights neighborhood. Construction is projected to begin this Summer 2024 with completion slated for late Summer 2025.