Northwestern University is moving forward with plans to host home football games at its lakefront athletic field while the new Ryan Field is under construction, the university announced. news release Wednesday.
Construction of temporary facilities will begin in the area this summer. Lanny and Sharon Martin Stadium, 2235 Campus Drive, and a portion of Hutchison Field to the south. The facility could hold up to 15,000 spectators for the majority of NU's 12 home games during the 2024 and 2025 seasons, according to a March 26 announcement from the university. Zoning analysis application.
The university determined that the lakefront location was the “best option” out of “several options” it considered for the next two seasons, according to a news release.
“In addition to creating a great fan experience for the opening of Ryan Field, hosting games on campus will reduce the travel burden for student-athletes and fans, making it easier for students to attend games,” said Northwestern University President Michael Schill. will become more accessible.” said in a release. “We are also pleased to be able to maintain the economic benefits of playing football in Evanston.”
City spokeswoman Cynthia Vargas confirmed that the facility does not require City Council approval for any special use or zoning. Ward 7 Councilwoman Eleanor Revell did not respond to a request for comment.
The facility will be built by InProduction, a temporary event structure provider that provided viewing areas for the July 2023 NASCAR race in downtown Chicago. The football game does not preclude the men's and women's soccer teams and the women's lacrosse team from playing at Martin Field, nor does it infringe on the field hockey game at the adjacent Lakeside Field.
Just over a mile inland, joint venture Turner Walsh Construction, also known as Central Street Consortium, continues to Demolish old Ryan Field. According to an April 4 announcement, public works projects requiring parking restrictions on Chuo Avenue will be finished by Sunday, April 14. construction updates.
