Construction Updates Archive
Oct. 10, 2025 newsletter update
Visible progress continues both inside and outside at the stadium. Crews are busy framing walls throughout the concourses, adding steel infill to the roof canopy and installing exterior sheathing around the stadium perimeter.
Over the next few weeks, the canopy will make its way around the entire stadium bowl, with crews finishing up by placing the roof decking atop the steel structure. Inside, work is moving steadily as teams install mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems throughout the newly framed spaces.
Outside the stadium, progress is just as steady. The mechanical yard has been backfilled to subgrade, and crews are preparing to place housekeeping pads in the next week. Underground electrical work in the west parking lot is now complete, and paving has been restored.
Oct. 2, 2025
The near-final form of the stadium canopy will soon be visible from the air as crews prepare to begin installing the final infill steel next week. Meanwhile on the ground, cooling tower installation continues in the mechanical yard, and utility installation continues throughout the site.
Framing and exterior sheathing continues around the outside, while stud framing and fireproofing are ongoing inside. HVAC equipment also has started to arrive on-site.
Sept. 26, 2025
Crews are making steady progress on the stadium roof, with steel corner sections now secured on the north end and preparations underway on the south. Installation of roof panels will follow. Around the exterior, framing and wall sheathing continue to take shape, while inside, workers are erecting studs for interior walls. On the west side of the site, preparations are in place to pour concrete for the stormwater system, and installation of the steel framework for the mechanical yard’s cooling tower is set to begin this week.
Sept. 18, 2025
Canopy steel infill and roof gutter installation are underway on the east side roof, while stone cladding continues along the façade. Inside, fireproofing and MEP work progress, and new concrete walls are taking shape around the mechanical yard outside the stadium. Landscaping and paving on Chancellor Street are now complete, with ongoing excavation for underground storm traps on the west side of the stadium lot.
Sept. 11, 2025 newsletter update
Crews are making steady, visible progress on the stadium exterior, with green sheathing wrapping the structure and stonework now taking shape on the southeast corner. High above, the roof canopy is coming together as header truss installation moves from the north end toward the south.
Inside, stud framing is advancing through the main and upper concourses, while masonry work continues at the field level. At the same time, crews are busy installing the stadium’s mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems throughout the main concourse.
Beyond the walls, Chancellor Street asphalt topping continues this week, paired with ongoing landscaping to restore the surrounding area.
Sept. 5, 2025
Work on the new stadium is quickly taking shape, inside and out. On the exterior, masonry scaffolding is now in place as crews continue installing panels along the east side, steadily enclosing the building. Inside, partitions are being placed throughout the field level and main concourse, while framing rises in the upper concourse suites. Beyond the walls, progress stretches to Chancellor Street, where landscaping restoration is well underway.
Aug. 28, 2025
This week, leading up to the Labor Day holiday, crews continue to erect canopy steel. Exterior wall work has begun. Interior mechanical, electrical and plumbing rough-in continues throughout the stadium. Interior partition work continues. Site utilities continue along the south side of the project site. And, Chancellor Street restoration is underway with road paving and curb installations.
Aug. 21, 2025
This week, crews are installing masonry walls on the field level and main concourse where overhead mechanical, electrical and plumbing (MEP) work continues as well. Concrete placement proceeds for foundation walls at the new MEP mechanical yard. Also, fireproofing continues on the concourses. Roof canopy sections are going up on both sides of the stadium. Chancellor Street Sewer work is progressing to the new stadium connection. As part of that process, crews will begin hardscaping and landscaping restoration.
Aug. 14, 2025 newsletter update
In early August, concrete masonry and metal stud framing work continues. Fireproofing is coming along on the main and upper concourses, as is ductwork and electrical overhead. On the exterior, canopy truss sections are going up one at a time. Onsite sewer work has begun from the south to the west side. Away from the site, sewer and underground utility work is moving along at Chancellor Street and Asbury Avenue. Finally, crews are preparing for underground electrical utility work that starts in the Ryan Field west parking lot and proceeds toward the stadium.
Aug. 7, 2025
This week, crews continue the interior build-out on the field Level and main concourse, progressing with concrete masonry and metal stud framing. Fireproofing is coming along on the main and upper concourses, as is ductwork and electrical overhead. On the exterior, installation has started on canopy truss sections. Onsite sewer work has begun working from the south to the west side. And, away from the site, sewer and underground utility work is moving along at Chancellor Street and Asbury Avenue. Beginning next week, crews will be preparing for underground electrical utility work that starts in the Ryan Field west parking lot and then crosses Ashland Avenue toward the stadium.
July 31, 2025
This week, as July comes to a close, structural steel is nearly complete on the north side scoreboard. Precast stadia installation continues along the western section. Masons are beginning installation of mullion facade. Meanwhile, progress continues on fireproofing heading to the western section on the upper concourse. And, sewer work proceeds on Chancellor Street and Asbury Avenue.
July 24, 2025
This week, work proceeds on the south and west sides of the bowl. Precast installation is ongoing and slab on grade is being prepped for concrete placement. The southern rim is being prepped for future slab on grade placement. Scoreboard steel assembly continues on the south end, transiting to the north. Also still in progress is fireproofing on the concourses. On the press level, crews are preparing for concrete slab on deck pours. Underground mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems are being set in the new mechanical yard. And finally, sewer work is moving west to the last portion of Chancellor Street.
July 17, 2025
This week, steel canopy sections are being erected, and preparations are being made to hoist the first sections. Precast erection is nearly complete on the east, north and south sides while work is well underway on the west side. Concrete deck pours proceed. Spray fireproofing continues on the field level and concourses. Crews are roughing in mechanical, electrical and plumbing, while interior partitions continue. Meanwhile, Chancellor Street storm line work is making its way to Asbury Avenue.
July 10, 2025
This week, steel has reached full elevation with the canopy steel being assembled. Precast erection continues to the north and east sides of the stadium. On the upper decks and field level, concrete slab pours continue. Also, crews continue to rough in mechanical, electrical and plumbing. On the field level, main concourse and upper concourse levels, work proceeds on interior wall construction as well as spray fireproofing. On Chancellor Street, crews continue work on the storm sewer line toward the stadium site.
July 3, 2025
During the holiday week — and now that the stadium’s steel frame has topped out — crews are building and detailing canopy sections. Meanwhile, precast continues on the upper bowl wrapping up the east side and moving toward the west side. Concrete deck pours continue along the west side on the upper concourse and the loft level. Interior wall construction continues along the north end of the main concourse and east side at field level. Also on the main concourse, mechanical, electrical and plumbing rough-in proceeds, along with spray fireproofing. Electrical underground work continues at field level on the south end. Utility construction phase 2 work is underway on Chancellor Street. Finally, the construction site will be closed on Friday, July 4, but work will resume on Saturday, July 5.
June 26, 2025
This week, steel detailing of the main structure continues, and crews will continue the build of the roof canopy. At the northeast and southeast corners, precast erection proceeds toward the northwest and southwest corners. Concrete pours continue on the upper deck levels, and preparation of slab pours at field level are ongoing. In other work, mechanical, electrical and plumbing (MEP) crews continue rough-ins. And, on the main concourse and field levels, work proceeds on interior partitions and spray fireproofing. MEP mechanical yard work proceeds. Lining of the existing manhole at Chancellor and Asbury, as well as the phase 2 utility work, will begin the week of June 30. See a graphic here.
June 19, 2025
As the main structure is being completed, steel work now begins on the roof canopy. Meanwhile, precast installation continues on the upper bowl, progressing from west to north. On the field level and upper decks, concrete slab pours proceed. Mechanical, electrical and plumbing progress continues. And, mechanical yard work is underway. On the main concourse and field level, crews carry on with interior partitions and spray fireproofing. On Chancellor Street, sewer lining work is in progress.
June 12, 2025 newsletter update
As with last week, steel erection continues in the southwest upper bowl. Canopy steel will be delivered soon. On the east side of the upper bowl, precast installation continues. Crews are pouring concrete decks on the main concourse and field level. Also on the main concourse, plumbing crews are installing overhead pipe, with fire protection and HVAC to follow. Masonry walls and metal stud framing continue to go up as well. Spray fireproofing continues on both the main concourse and field level, where electrical and plumbing shallow underground work proceeds. And, in the next week, the Chancellor Street storm sewer work will begin.
June 5, 2025
This week, steel erection continues in the southwest upper bowl. Canopy steel will be delivered soon. On the east side of the upper bowl, precast installation continues. Crews are pouring concrete decks on the main concourse and field level. Also on the main concourse, plumbing crews are installing overhead pipe, with fire protection and HVAC to follow. Masonry walls and metal stud framing continue to go up as well. Spray fireproofing continues on both the main concourse and field level, where electrical and plumbing shallow underground work proceeds. And, in the next week, the Chancellor Street storm sewer work will begin.
May 29, 2025
As with last week, steel erection proceeds. Precast setting continues on Ryan Field’s upper bowl. Concrete slab pours are happening on the deck and field level slab on grade. On the main concourse, interior wall construction carries on, as does spray fireproofing and the rough-in work on mechanical, electrical and plumbing engineering. Next week, area residents also may notice a ComEd presence along Central Street as it begins working on infrastructure upgrades for the new stadium.
May 22, 2025
Heading into the holiday weekend, crews continue to erect structural steel around the upper part of the stadium. On the west side, metal decking work is progressing as are concrete deck pours on the main concourse and field level. Also on the main concourse, spray fireproofing operations carry on and interior walls are going up. The installation of basic infrastructure — mechanical, electrical and plumbing — proceeds on the west side decks and on the field level shallow underground.
May 15, 2025
Along the west and south ends of the stadium, steel continues to go up. Precast erection continues along the upper concourse, and work will begin next week on the upper bowl. Meanwhile, crews continue to pour concrete on grade and deck levels. Shallow underground MEP rough-in continues, as does spray fireproofing operations. Interior masonry and partition walls are mobilizing, and crews soon will start building the interior walls. Also, storm line work continues to progress.
May 8, 2025 newsletter update
As the visible shell of the new Ryan Field takes shape, structural steel erection continues for the upper bowl and scoreboard.
Precast installation continues on the upper concourse, and it will soon start on the upper bowl seating. Work also continues on fireproofing as well as placing concrete slabs on the upper concourse, main concourse, field level and loft level.
Next up, interior masonry and wall framing crews have started mobilizing and will begin constructing walls. Also, exterior wall support framing will begin soon, while installation is underway on new storm water sewer lines.
May 1, 2025
Next week will mark an exciting milestone for Wildcat fans as crews begin erecting the steel for the scoreboard on the south side of the stadium.
Meanwhile, steel erection and precast installation continues around the concourses, along with deck pours and spray fireproofing. Utility rough-in also continues, and work has begun on the Chancellor Street utility corridor.
April 24, 2025
Spray fireproofing operations began this week, and interior wall layout is ramping up. Steel erection also continues around the upper concourse, along with utility rough-in, deck pours and installation of precast stadia risers.
April 17, 2025
Crews have begun a new stage of construction at the new Ryan Field, laying out interior walls inside the stadium. A third crane is now active on site, as steel erection rises to the upper seating level. Fireproofing operations and site utility work also are set to begin in the coming week.
April 10, 2025 newsletter update
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Steel columns are shooting skyward, while metal decking continues to snake around the concourses, forming the shell of the new Ryan Field. With concrete now poured over much of this decking, fans can start to imagine their walk to their seats in the state-of-the-art venue. Premium seating is also taking shape. Stadia risers are being placed, creating a foundation for chair-backed seats that will give fans a comfortable view of the action.
Soon, a third tower crane will rise into the skyline, ready to hoist materials to the top reaches of the new stadium. Meanwhile, new trades are arriving on site, preparing to enclose the structure over the coming months, adding the exterior elements that will define its final look.
In the meantime, work continues on essential infrastructure including mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems.
April 4, 2025
An attention-grabbing piece of equipment is set to make its debut next week, as a third crane soars above the landscape to lift construction materials to the upper decks of the new stadium. In the meantime, crews are hard at work on the stadium’s structural elements too, with steel beams rising into place, concrete decks being poured and metal decking and precast stadia being installed around the concourses.
March 27, 2025
Crews have begun pouring concrete decks, giving form to the future walkways and concourses through the new stadium. The upper concourse is taking shape with the installation of seating risers made from precast concrete placed along the north and south sides. Steel erection and metal decking installation are advancing, and in addition to the structural progress, work continues on shallow underground utilities at the field level.
March 21, 2025
Steel erection and installation of metal decking continues along the upper concourse, with crews set to begin pouring concrete decks next week. Work also continues to set the precast stadia, shaping the risers for future seating. At the field level, underground mechanical, electrical and plumbing installation continues as crews prepare the site for additional utility work.
March 13, 2025 newsletter update
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Crews have made significant progress on the steel framework, which now wraps along the east side of the upper concourse and the entire lower concourse. This framework is a key element in shaping the stadium’s future layout, creating the structural support for the seating areas and fan amenities.
One of the most visible updates this month is the placement of steel decking, an essential step in preparing for concrete pours that will take place in the coming weeks. These pours will further solidify the structure, bringing more definition to the concourses and walkways. In addition, the first signs of seating risers are now emerging, offering an exciting preview of where fans will soon be cheering on the Wildcats.
Work also is progressing on the installation of precast concrete panels around the stadium bowl, and crews continue to install shallow underground utilities, ensuring that the stadium’s essential infrastructure — such as drainage, electrical and water systems — is in place.
March 6, 2025
Steel is going up on the upper concourse, and installation of metal decking continues on the north and west sides. Precast installation also is in full swing on the east, south and north sides, as concrete curbs are steadily coming together. Installation of underground utilities also continues in the loading dock area.
Feb. 26, 2025
Construction on the stadium is progressing steadily, with steel erection now underway on the upper concourse.
Crews are actively installing metal decking and precast elements around the lower stadium bowl while also working on concrete curbs and walls. Additionally, efforts continue on installation of shallow underground utilities in the loading dock area.
Residents along the Chancellor St. utility route that runs from the west end of the street to Asbury Ave. and Canal Shores will notice equipment on site Feb. 27-28 as crews take samples to assess soil conditions. All work will occur during the City of Evanston’s allowable work hours and will not impact access to homes along the utility route.
Feb. 20, 2025
Steel beams now wrap around the full lower bowl, with work set to begin next week on the upper concourse framing. Installation of metal decking and precast concrete also continues around the lower levels.
Residents along the Chancellor St. utility route that runs from the west end of the street to Asbury Ave. and Canal Shores will notice equipment on site Feb. 27-28 as crews take samples to assess soil conditions. All work will occur during the City of Evanston’s allowable work hours and will not impact access to homes along the utility route.
Feb. 13, 2025 newsletter update
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Rapid progress is underway at Ryan Field as the new stadium begins to take visual form. Towering steel columns, freshly poured concrete decks and carefully placed precast panels are quickly transforming the site.
The steel framework for the main concourse level has now wrapped more than halfway around the future stadium bowl, setting the base for the next stage — construction of the upper concourse, which is set to begin in the coming weeks. Meanwhile, an additional crane has been deployed on-site to place precast concrete panels, giving fans and passersby a glimpse of the stadium's future shape and structure.
With foundation work and underground utilities successfully completed last month, crews have shifted focus to installing essential infrastructure, roughing in utilities within the future stadium building.
Residents along the Chancellor St. utility route that runs from the west end of the street to Asbury Ave. and Canal Shores will notice equipment on site Feb. 27-28 as crews take samples to assess soil conditions. All work will occur during the City of Evanston’s allowable work hours and will not impact access to homes along the utility route.
Feb. 6, 2025
Steel erection continues along the west side of stadium, with additional concrete deck pours scheduled in the next two weeks. Crews also are preparing for an exciting phase of progress – installation of pre-cast concrete. A second large crane is now on site, ready to lift large concrete panels into place, beginning next week. During this phase, the exterior form of the new stadium will begin to take shape, with most panels in place by fall.
Soil sample work along the Chancellor St. utility route that was originally scheduled Feb. 6-7 has been delayed. An updated schedule will be posted at RebuildRyanField.com when available.
Jan. 30, 2025
Construction hit a major milestone this week, as crews poured the first concrete decking in the northeast corner of the stadium's loading dock. Steel erection continues to move clockwise around the stadium bowl, with concrete decking to follow. Crews also are preparing for the arrival of a second large crane next week, for steel and precast stadia erection.
Residents along the Chancellor St. utility route that runs from the west end of the street to Asbury Ave. and Canal Shores will notice equipment on site Feb. 6 and 7 as crews take samples to assess soil conditions. All work will occur during the City of Evanston’s allowable work hours and will not impact access to homes along the utility route.
Jan. 23, 2025
Most foundation and underground utility work is now complete at the new Ryan Field, as crews prepare for the first concrete deck pour in the coming days. Steel erection also continues around the bowl, along the south edge of the future stadium.
Jan. 16, 2025 newsletter update
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The new stadium is taking shape at the Ryan Field construction site. The first sections of above-grade steel are now visible over the fences, giving neighbors a first glimpse of the future structure. Crews are also busy pouring the first concrete decking and getting to work on the new stadium’s first seating area.
Meanwhile, the concrete foundations are now complete, and the team is pushing forward with the installation of underground utilities. They’re also making progress on metal decking installation, including over the future loading dock.
Residents along the Chancellor St. utility route that runs from the west end of the street to Asbury Ave. and Canal Shores will notice equipment on site Jan. 16 and 17 as crews take samples to assess soil conditions. All work will occur during the City of Evanston’s allowable work hours and will not impact access to homes along the utility route. An additional set of soil samples will be collected in the coming month. Timing for that work will be shared at RebuildRyanField.com as soon as possible.
Jan. 9, 2025
Crews have finished pouring concrete foundations for the new stadium as the first above-grade level steel becomes visible over the construction fences. Steel erection continues, including construction of the first seating area in the new stadium.
Installation of metal decking continues over the loading dock area, and preparations have begun to pour the first concrete decking in the coming week. Installation of underground utilities also continues.
Crews also will be taking soil samples Jan. 16 and 17 to assess soil conditions along the utility route from the west end of Chancellor St. to Asbury Ave. and Canal Shores. The work may cause a slight increase in noise. It will occur during the City of Evanston’s allowable work hours and will not impact access to homes along the utility route. An additional set of soil samples will be collected in the coming month. Timing for that work will be shared as soon as possible.
Jan. 3, 2025
Steel erection continues at the new stadium, moving to the bowl in the coming week. Installation of metal decking also has begun, and the concrete foundations are nearly complete. Installation of underground utilities continues.
Dec. 23, 2024
Construction activities continue this week, including steel erection, as well as installation of metal decking, concrete foundations, and underground electrical and plumbing.
In observance of the upcoming holidays, construction activities will pause Dec. 25 and Jan. 1.
Dec. 16, 2024 newsletter update
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In November, construction reached a significant milestone with the installation of the first structural steel. This marks the beginning of the steel erection phase, which will continue throughout the coming months.
In addition to the steel work, crews continue installation of underground utilities, and they are on track to complete the pouring of concrete decks and foundations in the next few weeks.
In observance of the upcoming holidays, construction activities will pause Dec. 25 and Jan. 1. We wish everyone a joyful holiday season and look forward to continuing work in the new year.
Dec. 12, 2024
The new stadium continues to take shape as steel erection progresses along the east side. Crews also continue pouring concrete foundations and installing underground utilities.
Dec. 5, 2024
Installation of concrete foundations continues this week, with completion expected later this month. Underground utilities installation also continues, along with structural steel erection.
Nov. 27, 2024
The first structural steel was placed this week, as the new stadium begins to take form. In the meantime, work continues on foundations and underground utilities.
Construction activities will pause Thursday, in observance of Thanksgiving, and resume Friday morning.
Nov. 21, 2024
Preparations continue to place the first structural steel for the new stadium next week. Crews are currently assembling the crane they will use to place that steel. Underground utility work also continues along the south and north ends of the stadium, while crews continue to pour foundations along the west side.
Nov. 14, 2024
It is a momentous week as crews begin preparations to place the first structural steel for the new stadium. Workers have begun setting matting for the crane that will hoist the steel into position. That crane will arrive onsite in pieces this week, ready for assembly. The first loads of steel will be delivered late next week.
Meanwhile, crews continue to pour concrete foundations and ramps, and work continues on underground utilities.
Nov. 7, 2024 newsletter update
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This month at the Ryan Field construction site, preparations are underway to bring in the first structural steel for the new stadium. The first structure is expected to go in by the end of the year.
In the meantime, crews continue installing underground utilities and concrete foundations throughout the new stadium site. A layer of stone now lies over the field area, as workers prepare for the future playing surface.
Oct. 31, 2024
Crews continue to backfill completed foundations and pour concrete foundations along the east and west sides of the stadium. Work also continues to pour the concrete wall along the future loading dock.
Installation of underground utilities continues along the east and south ends of the stadium, and crews are beginning to lay stone over the field area, in preparation for the future playing surface.
Oct. 24, 2024
Utility infrastructure work is ramping up, with drainage pipe going in under the field subgrade. Underground plumbing work also continues along the south side of the stadium, while underground electrical is being installed along the east and south sides.
Crews also are making progress on concrete foundations around the stadium. The south end foundations are now complete, while the east side is nearly finished. Crews are excavating foundations along the west said and will pour concrete in the coming weeks.
Oct. 17, 2024
Installation of concrete foundations continues around the stadium footprint. Excavation activities have shifted to focus on foundation, plumbing and electrical piping installations.
Oct. 10, 2024 newsletter update
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Construction activities at the new Ryan Field are turning a corner as fall sets in, with mass excavation now mostly complete, resulting in fewer trucks and dirt coming from the site. Focus now shifts to installing concrete foundations and underground utilities as preparations begin for the new stadium's steel structure.
Oct. 3, 2024
Mass excavation at the site is nearly complete, as crews shift focus to foundation work in the north and south ends of the stadium, soon moving to the west side. Underground utility work also is expected to begin soon.
Sept. 26, 2024
Installation of earth retention soil anchors has been completed. Mass excavation continues, and crews continue to pour concrete foundations around the stadium.
Sept. 20, 2024
Foundation work is well underway, with concrete being poured along the north section of the stadium.
Crews completed installation of the earth retention system this week, and mass excavation levels continue to decrease, resulting in progressively fewer trucks and less dust around the job site.
Sept. 12, 2024
It was a big week on the Ryan Field job site. The last of the soil anchors have now been installed, and the crew expects to finish the final bracing next week, completing the installation of the earth retention system. Mass excavation is also nearing final stages, with some areas already at the final depth, and concrete foundations continue going in along the north and east sides of the stadium. Over the next few weeks, new casing will be installed, which may result in periodic increases in noise levels but will not exceed allowable limits.
Stay up-to-date on all Evanston construction projects and events on the City of Evanston website.
Sept. 5, 2024 newsletter update
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Construction crews have been busy at the new Ryan Field, continuing work to lower the gradient to the future field height, reinforce the surrounding area and pour concrete foundations.
Mass excavation will near completion in the coming month, resulting in fewer trucks and less dust around the job site. Installation of earth retention system sheeting anchors also continues, wrapping up in early October.
Installation of underground utilities is set to begin in September, and concrete foundations will continue to be poured throughout the footprint of the future building.
Aug. 29, 2024
Installation of earth retention anchors continues along the west side of the stadium, moving south, while mass excavation continues along the east side. Crews also continue to pour concrete foundations along the north end and are beginning to pour foundations along the east side.
Aug. 22, 2024
Installation of earth retention system lower soil anchors continues, along with mass excavation. Pouring of concrete foundations also continues along the south and north ends of the new stadium.
Aug. 16, 2024
Mass excavation continues this week, as crews place earth retention lower soil anchor along the south side and lower bracing along the east side. Pouring of concrete foundations also continues along the south and north ends. Additionally, the team continues to distribute 4-inch purple dot stickers to truck drivers to display in the upper left-hand corner of the windshield.
Aug. 8, 2024 newsletter update
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Several key activities will take place during the month of August. Deep foundations and the earth retention soil anchor drilling is scheduled to be completed this month. Underground utilities installation is set to begin, while the concrete foundation installation will continue into September. Mass excavation work also will continue into September, along with earth retention system bracing and testing.
Aug. 2, 2024
Mass excavation work continues at Ryan Field, while earth retention lower soil anchor installation progresses to the south side. Crews also continue to pour concrete foundations along the south side, completing the second pour the week of July 29. Deep foundations have been completed.
Trucks involved in the Ryan Field project are now demarcated by a purple dot in the upper left corner of the windshield. View more information about approved truck routes and procedures in the FAQ section of the Rebuild Ryan Field website.
July 25, 2024
Mass excavation continues at Ryan Field, while crews complete deep foundations along the north, east and south sides of the site, progressing along the west. Earth retention lower soil anchor installation also continues along the east side. The pouring of concrete foundations also continues along the south edge of the site.
Trucks involved in the Ryan Field project are now demarcated by a purple dot in the upper left corner of the windshield. View more information about approved truck routes and procedures in the FAQ section of the Rebuild Ryan Field website.
Additionally, the City of Evanston has begun contracted renovations at Independence Park, with work anticipated to be completed in October. Stay up-to-date on all Evanston construction projects and events on the City of Evanston website.
July 19, 2024
Crews have begun an exciting new aspect of construction, pouring concrete foundations along the south end of the new stadium site. Deep foundation work also continues along the west edge, while the second layer of earth retention anchors are installed along the east edge. Excavation work also continues.
Traffic along approved truck routes will be affected by an unrelated project taking place on Noyes St. A series of crane lifts are planned for July 24 through July 31, excluding weekend days. Noyes St. will be closed to vehicle traffic in both directions at the 1000 block, between Ridge Ave. and Maple Ave., from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. each day. Westbound traffic will detour to Foster Ave. between Maple St. and Ridge Ave. Eastbound traffic will detour to Simpson St. between Ridge Ave. and Maple Ave.
July 11, 2024 newsletter update
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Ryan Field construction crews will be making exciting progress in July. While the earth retention system anchoring continues, installation of sheeting is now complete, resulting in decreased noise and vibrations. The deep foundation operation will be complete by early August. Mass excavation work also continues, with the stadium bowl nearing its permanent field level, helping to prepare the way for pouring concrete foundations.
Additional work hours approved
The city has approved alternate work hours for the first phase of the Northwestern Ryan Field Project. The additional work hours will be used for equipment maintenance and preparation for the next day’s activities. The work conducted during these additional hours is required to comply with the City’s noise ordinance, and the impact is expected to be minimal. The additional work hours allow the project to progress and stay on time. The additional work hours are at the City's discretion and will be continually re-assessed.
The alternate work schedule is as follows:
- Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. (currently 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.)
- Saturday, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. (currently 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.)
- Allowable activities between 7 p.m. and 9 p.m. on weekdays and 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Saturdays are limited to site maintenance and preparation activities and must comply with City of Evanston noise ordinances.
Community meeting
Northwestern University invites you to join us for a virtual community forum on July 23, 2024, at 7 p.m. We will provide important updates on the Ryan Field Project and the temporary lakeside football field.
Temporary lakeside football field
Mark your calendars for Aug. 31 at 2:30 p.m. The Wildcats will host their first home game at the temporary football field. This is an exciting milestone for Northwestern and the Evanston community.
As we get closer to the big day, Northwestern and the City will provide more details. Stay tuned for updates and get ready to cheer on the Wildcats in this historic event.
We look forward to your participation and feedback. Your input is crucial as we work to minimize the impact of these projects and keep you informed.
July 3, 2024
Installation of earth retention system sheeting is complete, resulting in decreased noise and vibration levels for the remainder of the project. The final shape of the stadium is now more visible, as crews continue to install soil anchors and bracing around the west side. Soil anchor installation also continues on the north side and caisson installation on the east. Mass excavation also continues, with the bowl nearing its final elevation.
Construction crews will pause activities Thursday, July 4, in observance of the holiday. Work will resume Friday, July 5.
June 27, 2024
Deep foundation work continues along the east and south sides of the stadium, while soil anchor installation proceeds along the west and north sides. Excavation work also continues along the north and east sides of the stadium.
Construction crews will pause activities Thursday, July 4, in observance of the holiday. Work will resume Friday, July 5.
June 20, 2024
Foundation preparation work continues this week, with earth retention soil anchor drilling and installation progressing along the west side and earth retention bracing installation along the east side. Installation of the earth retention system sheeting is now complete, resulting in decreased noise and vibrations.
Deep foundation work also continues along the east side of the site, and crews continue to excavate the center of the site for the below-grade field.
June 13, 2024
Installation of the earth retention system sheeting will be complete by June 14, which will result in decreased noise and vibrations. Installation of the earth retention system soil anchors and deep foundations continues along the south end of the project, progressing to the west side. Mass excavation also continues, with a portion of the new bowl area now excavated down to the new field level.
The City of Evanston Juneteenth Parade is scheduled for Saturday, June 15, which will cross the approved truck route at the intersection of Emerson Street and Dodge Avenue. The construction team will work closely with the City and the scheduled road closures to ensure truck traffic is coordinated with parade operations.
June 6, 2024 newsletter update
View the full newsletter here.
Activity at the new Ryan Field is shifting gears, with demolition now complete and construction ramping up. The new stadium will begin taking shape by the end of the year, and in the meantime, the Central Street Consortium is hard at work preparing the ground and foundations to support the new, world class stadium.
Mass excavation activities will continue throughout the summer, as crews work to lower the field level. Installation of earth retention sheeting also has resumed and will continue for about two weeks. Residents can expect an increase in noise and vibration during this period. Deep foundation work and caisson installation also continues this month.
May 30, 2024
Installation of earth retention sheeting will resume the week of June 3, resulting in an increase in noise and vibration levels. Installation will take about two weeks to complete. Meanwhile, mass excavation continues; earth retention anchor installation continues along the east side of the project site; and demolition of existing foundations continues along the west side. Deep foundation installation also has started and will continue through the end of the week.
The Central Street Consortium also continues to ramp up dust control efforts. An undercarriage and wheel wash station was constructed this week to clean trucks before they leave the site, and a pressure washing station has been set up to wash all truck wheels, regardless of the level of dirt. The Central Street Consortium also added another water truck on the site, upgraded street sweeping equipment, increased the use of water trucks and misters, and built stone roads through the site to reduce dirt tracking on truck wheels. Read more about dust mitigation efforts in Frequently Asked Questions.
May 23, 2024
Demolition of the above-ground portion of the press box is now complete, marking a major milestone on the project. Removal of existing foundations is the last remaining demolition activity.
Meanwhile, mass excavation continues toward the west side of the project; caisson installation is wrapping along the north end of the new stadium, proceeding to the south end next week; and installation of the Earth Retention System (ERS) continues, with soil anchor installation beginning along the east side of the job site. ERS sheeting installation is expected to resume late next week and continue for two weeks, during which time, noise and vibration levels will temporarily increase.
Demolition and construction activities will pause Monday, May 27, in observance of Memorial Day.
May 17, 2024
Installation of the first caissons began late this week and will continue over the next several months. Meanwhile, installation of the earth retention system (ERS) sheeting has paused temporarily while crews remove the remaining press box structure. ERS sheeting installation could resume as early as mid-next week and continue through the next two weeks. Soil anchor installation will begin next week. Mass excavation work also continues.
Dust mitigation efforts also continue, with additional measures taken this week. Crews continue to wash down every truck before it exits and have installed more stone roads on the job site. During this phase of the project, many trucks bring materials to the job site and leave empty. Crews ensure trucks with full loads are covered before exiting the site; those without functioning covers are required to dump their loads and return when covers are fully functioning. Read more about our dust mitigation efforts in FAQs.
May 9, 2024
Foundation preparation work continues with earth retention sheeting installation continuing along the east side of the project, soon progressing to the south side. The first level of the soil anchor system for earth retention will begin late next week. Mass excavation activities will continue with a focus along the east side in preparation for soil anchor installation. As mass excavation continues, additional stone access roads and work surfaces will continue to be added, reducing the level of dust carried into the neighborhood.
Demolition of the press box also continues. Brief traffic control measures will be in place intermittently along Ashland when large sections of the press box are being dismantled. Air horns will be used to inform workers when these large sections are being removed.
Additionally, trucks working on the Ryan Field project now carry Northwestern branding in the windshield, demarcating their affiliation with the project. View information about approved truck routes in FAQs.
Why an Earth Retention System is important for the new Ryan Field
As noted in the May Ryan Field newsletter, the installation of the earth retention system (ERS) is expected to bring a temporary increase in vibration levels and noise profiles, peaking in the first two weeks and lasting about 40 days.
The ERS facilitates construction below the grade level. The Central Street Consortium is using this system to lower the field level of the stadium below grade, which presents many benefits to the surrounding community including:
- Decreasing the overall height of the stadium
- Incorporating a below grade loading dock to facilitate efficient truck deliveries
- Controlling the level of field sound emitted to the community
- Allowing the new Ryan Field to be the most accessible college football stadium in the country by establishing the main concourse access at grade level
How it’s built
The ERS comprises steel sheeting and soil anchors. The sheeting is installed through two methods: hammering or vibrating sheets into the ground. In order to minimize the effects to the surrounding neighborhood, the Central Street Consortium is utilizing the vibration method. Soil anchors are installed by drilling into the soil at an angle, inserting cable anchors and placing grout to secure them.
ERS installation is progressing according to schedule and is expected to be completed in mid-June. Northwestern and the Central Street Consortium continue to monitor vibrations caused by construction activities to ensure levels do not exceed limits, protecting the surrounding environment and structures. To date, vibration levels have been well below allowable limits.
May 2, 2024 newsletter update
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With the press box removal expected within the next six weeks, demolition of the stadium is nearly complete. Demolition of the press box will take place from the inside out, exposing the steel frame, which will begin coming down next week.
Temporary increase in vibrations, noise
Earth retention and caisson equipment, as well as construction office trailers, are now arriving on site as crews prepare for the next phase of the project. Construction activities will begin in earnest the week of May 6, with the installation of earth retention sheathing and fabrication of deep foundation rebar cages. Deep foundation drilling will begin in mid-May.
This stage of construction is expected to bring a temporary increase in vibration levels and noise profiles, peaking in the first two weeks and lasting about 40 days. Activity will start on the east side of the job site, progressing south.
Northwestern and the Central Street Consortium continue monitor vibrations caused by construction activities to ensure levels do not exceed limits, protecting the surrounding environment and structures. Monthly reports are available to view on the City of Evanston website. To date, vibration levels have been well below allowable limits.
Uptick in trucking
This phase of construction also will bring an increase in the number of trucks on site, as mass excavation work begins. The Central Street Consortium is working with drivers to ensure adherence with covering mandates and approved truck routes. Trucks are being inspected through three checkpoints prior to leaving the site. Trucks without operable covers are either turned away from the site or unloaded and sent away. Street sweepers will continue to follow trucks leaving the site.
Stadium truck traffic remains limited to: Golf Road and Emerson Street between Crawford and Sherman Avenues; Sherman Avenue between Emerson and Central Streets; and Central Street between Sherman and Ashland Avenues. View the route map approved by the City of Evanston in the Construction Management Plan.
April 25, 2024
The final stages of demolition continue, as crews work to remove the press box and existing stadium foundations. Truck presence will increase in the coming weeks as mass excavation work begins.
The Central Street Consortium is working with drivers to ensure adherence with covering mandates and approved truck routes. The team also continues to utilize misters onsite, running two water trucks and a street sweeper throughout the day to help maintain dust control.
Oversized equipment loads also are expected the week of April 29, bringing in earth retention and caisson equipment, along with construction office trailers. Installation of earth retention sheathing will then begin the week of May 6, lasting about 5 weeks. Fabrication of deep foundation rebar cages also will begin the week of May 6.
April 16, 2024
Site preparation activities including stripping of the east parking lot paving, topsoil stripping and the establishment of additional construction entrances continue this week.
As demolition of the press box area continues, the following additional measures have been implemented to address recent concerns regarding dust control:
- Increase the water truck spraying down the roadways, surfaces and lots
- Double the number of misting equipment
- Run the misting equipment approximately one hour prior to demolition activities on the tower
April 12, 2024
Utility work affecting parking on Central Street has been completed. Residents may resume parking on Central Street as of 4 p.m. Friday, April 12.
April 11, 2024 Newsletter Update
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Demolition at Ryan Field is nearly complete, with the final pieces of the existing structure set to come down by the beginning of May. Nearby residents may experience an increase in noise and vibrations in the next week as crews demolish the remaining concrete structures, begin stripping pavement in the east parking lot and remove the earth retention test sheeting. Additionally, exterior demolition of the press box will begin next week, with a crane on site to bring down equipment.
Utility work affecting parking on Central Street will be completed by Sunday, April 14. In the meantime, the City of Evanston has made parking available in municipal lot 64, located in Ryan Field’s west lot at Central Street and Ashland Avenue, through Monday, April 15. Fiber infrastructure work also continues, with a scheduled completion date of Sunday, April 14.
Shifting gears
Toward the end of this month, activities will shift from demolition to construction. The change in focus is likely to produce less noise but bring an increase in the number of trucks on site. Drivers will be reminded to stick to approved routes and avoid idling and queuing off site.
Construction field office trailers will be delivered to the site by mid-April as construction ramps up. The first steps already will be visible next week, as crews begin constructing the stone entrances and installing new gates. Excavation work also will begin toward the end of the month, and installation of the earth retention system and deep foundations will begin in early to mid-May. Additional information about these activities will be shared in coming weeks.
April 4, 2024
Utility work affecting parking on Central Street will be completed by Sunday, April 14. In the meantime, the City of Evanston has made parking available in municipal lot 64, located in Ryan Field’s west lot at Central Street and Ashland Avenue, through Monday, April 15.
Demolition continues to progress with the removal of underground foundations, the Bueler building on the north end of the stadium and interior demolition in the press box on the stadium’s west side. Preparations for the demolition of the press box structure will begin next week. Site preparations including selective tree removal, top soil stripping and the removal of the earth retention test sheeting will commence next week as well. Some residents may experience vibrations during the sheeting removal process.
Fiber infrastructure work also continues, with a scheduled completion date of Sunday, April 14.
March 28, 2024
Utility work the week of April 1 may cause minor traffic and parking disruptions near the intersection of Central Street and Ashland Avenue. Additionally, continued work on fiber optic cable installation will impact traffic on Isabella Street near Asbury Avenue, under the el tracks.
Meanwhile, soil anchor testing and removal of existing foundations continues, as demolition progresses along the east and north sides of the stadium. Interior demolition of the stadium’s press box has begun, with external demolition set to begin in the next two weeks.
March 22, 2024
Work on the west side of the stadium continues, with demolition of the north tower set to begin in the coming days. Demolition of the press box also will begin in the next two to three weeks. Meanwhile, progress continues to remove existing foundations and landscaping, test and install soil anchors, and install utilities and drainage systems for the future stadium.
March 15, 2024
Work within the parkway for directional drilling will continue to progress along Clinton Pl., Ridge Ave. and Isabella St. (just east of the North Shore Channel to Girard Ave.) through Thursday, March 21. To facilitate the continued demolition of the existing stadium, isolated coring in street crossing pavement areas will begin March 22 and continue through the week of March 25. Additionally, installation of the fiber will begin along Clinton Pl. and is expected to begin on or before Wednesday, March 20.
March 13, 2024
Beginning March 14th, neighbors to the east may notice a new piece of equipment onsite — a Boring Machine. The machine will be used to prepare for the installation of the Earth Retention System. Some residents may experience vibrations during this process, which will likely continue through the end of March. The team has in place vibration monitors to ensure the vibrations are within the normal range and will not cause structural damage to nearby properties.
March 9, 2024
Clarification of Fiber Infrastructure Work and Right of Way Impacts
Under the approved Right of Way permit, the scope of work includes no road closures and parking restrictions - except for a few reserved parking spaces only for construction vehicles throughout the route. Most of the construction activity is located in the parkway and underground.
The City issued a Right of Way permit to complete the fiber optic cable installation on March 5, 2024. This approval occurred after Resolution 75-R-23 was passed by the City Council.
Community members should experience no difficulty accessing their homes or parking spaces. Visitors and homeowners will have unrestricted access to the right of way except in designated work areas.
Due to the complex excavation process, some alleys and driveways may be briefly blocked. We recognize that Clinton Place is a very narrow street, and for this reason, "No Parking" signs have been posted as per the city permit. This measure has been taken to ensure the residents' safety and facilitate the underground construction efforts.
The City's Parking Services Division is aware of the construction project and has waived parking restrictions in surrounding areas (streets) during the construction project to provide community members and visitors with other parking options. For more information or questions, please contact the City's Parking Services Division at (847) 448-8116.
During the initial process, you may notice a vacuum truck and a directional drill rig (truck and trailer). The vehicles are large pieces of equipment, and as the cul-de-sac at the end of Clinton Pl. poses a challenge, the equipment will be backed up down the street. Turning around at the end of the street is not feasible for the equipment.
First-Week Timeline
On Monday, March 11, work will begin on the bridge that crosses the canal on Isabella. In the case where J.U.L.I.E utility locates are completed by Tuesday, March 12, work will begin on the potholes in the parkway along Clinton Pl. On Wednesday, March 13, the directional drill is expected to start on Clinton, provided all member utilities, such as ComEd, Nicor Gas, City streetlights, Traffic signals, and Comcast, are marked by J.U.L.I.E in a timely manner.
To prevent any damage or disruption to household utilities, the J.U.L.I.E system has carefully marked the location of these utility lines using colored flags.
Orrington Elementary School
Construction plans are being scheduled around Orrington Elementary School's schedule to prevent disruptions.
We appreciate your input and patience during this construction project.
The easement route being used for the fiber optic cable installation was approved by the Evanston City Council through Resolution 75-R-23 on November 27, 2023.
March 8, 2024 Newsletter Update
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Ryan Field demolition activities are in high gear, with the demolition of the tower on the southwest portion of the stadium set to begin the week of March 11. Above-ground demolition of the east side is nearly complete, to be followed by foundation removal in the coming weeks.
Demolition of the west side of the stadium — which features more robust structures such as the press box and two towers — is expected to move more slowly due to the coordination of utility infrastructure. Demolition of this area will last several weeks. Excavation activities will then begin in mid to late April, followed by construction of foundation elements in early May. More detail about these processes will be shared in future communications.
Demolition and construction activities began in earnest in mid-February with the installation of the temporary perimeter fence. Environmental operations were completed in compliance with state, county and city regulatory requirements. Salvage operations also were completed, with items including seating, signage, TVs and food service equipment recovered for resale by the Evanston Rebuilding Exchange.
March 6, 2024
The City of Evanston has approved upgrades to fiber infrastructure that will impact the public right of way on Isabella St., from 4th St. to Ridge Ave.; on Ridge Ave., from Isabella St. to Clinton Place; and on Clinton Place, from Ridge Ave. to Orrington Ave. Work will begin the week of March 11 and continue for about three weeks.
March 1, 2024
Demolition activities have continued to progress throughout the east and south portions of the stadium and will shift to include the west areas of the stadium, beginning the week of March 4.
Feb 15, 2024
With the demolition permit in hand, demolition preparations have continued to progress throughout the week, leading the way for the commencement of demolitions activities. Central Street Consortium has confirmed demolition activities will occur Mondays through Saturdays starting February 16.