Construction update from the Central Street Consortium

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.

Questions or concerns?

Northwestern and the Central Street Consortium, in coordination with the City of Evanston, are committed to maintaining a responsive and robust channel of communication with the community throughout the process to Rebuild Ryan Field. Visit the Ryan Field website to explore several ways to ask questions and stay informed about upcoming milestones, including weekly updates on construction milestones. Visit the City of Evanston website to stay up-to-date on all Evanston construction projects and events.

Photo credit: Central Street Consortium / March 10, 2025

Structural steel now wraps much of the upper concourse, preparing the way for precast cement and metal sheeting.

One year into the journey to rebuild Ryan Field

If you've been on Central Street in the past year, you've seen the early stages of Ryan Field as it transforms from a historic 1926 stadium to a massive excavation and construction site. Progress is building toward an exciting new era in Wildcat athletics and a community asset for the Northwestern and Evanston communities. Take a look at progress so far, in photos and by the numbers. 

Follow us on Instagram

During snow storms in February, construction crews picked up their shovels to help neighbors dig out.

Follow the Central Street Consortium on Instagram @centralstreetconsortium to see the job site through the eyes of the construction crew. Meet the team, find project updates, community events and more.

Upcoming events

The Central Street Consortium regularly hosts events to engage the Evanston community in the project to rebuild Ryan Field and to learn more about careers in the construction industry. 

Join us for office hours
A member of the Central Street Consortium team will be at the will-call ticket office in Welsh-Ryan Arena at 2705 Ashland Ave. from 9 to 11 a.m. each Wednesday. Neighbors are welcome to come chat about special programs and construction career opportunities and to learn more about local businesses. CSC representatives also will be available from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. each Wednesday at the CSC Resource Center at 1910 Greenwood Ave. in Evanston.