DePaul’s Controversial Athletic Facility Plan Gets Ald. Timmy Knudsen’s Support

Ald. Timmy Knudsen Supports DePaul’s $60 Million Athletic Center

Ald. Timmy Knudsen (43rd) has announced his support for DePaul University’s plan to build a new basketball facility on its Lincoln Park campus. The $60 million athletic center will include an athlete recovery lounge, meeting rooms, and volleyball courts, but will require the teardown of four century-old homes in the 2300 block of North Sheffield Avenue.

Concessions Made to Neighbors

Knudsen stated that he was able to support the project because of the many concessions the university was willing to make. These concessions include:

• The commitment to invest in the landmarking of Byrne Hall and Cortelyou Commons
• A commitment that not more than one month will pass between demolition and building
• The agreement to allow youth sports leagues and other community groups to use the new facilities
• The installation of electric vehicle charging stations on campus that can be used by the public
• The construction of a smaller facility with a more historical brick facade to integrate with the neighborhood

Historic Buildings to be Demolished

The four row houses at 2308, 2310, 2314, and 2316 N. Sheffield Ave. are set to be torn down to make way for the new athletic center. Two of the rowhouses are orange-rated in the Chicago Historic Resources Survey, meaning they are not designated as landmarks but do have architectural features or historical associations that contribute to the context of the community.

Community Support

The Wrightwood Neighbors Association and the Lincoln Park Chamber of Commerce have both expressed support for the project. Ald. Knudsen praised the two-year process of negotiating with the university while collecting community feedback, stating that it was difficult at times but ultimately resulted in a compromise that addressed many concerns.

Conclusion

The proposed athletic center is a significant development for DePaul University and the Lincoln Park community. While some may be disappointed by the demolition of historic buildings, the concessions made by the university and the support from community groups demonstrate a commitment to finding a balance between progress and preservation.

FAQs

Q: What is the purpose of the new athletic center?
A: The new athletic center will include an athlete recovery lounge, meeting rooms, and volleyball courts to support DePaul University’s athletic programs.

Q: How much will the project cost?
A: The project will cost $60 million.

Q: Will any historic buildings be demolished?
A: Yes, four century-old homes in the 2300 block of North Sheffield Avenue will be torn down to make way for the new athletic center.

Q: Will community groups be able to use the new facilities?
A: Yes, youth sports leagues and other community groups will be allowed to use the new facilities.

Q: Will electric vehicle charging stations be installed?
A: Yes, the university has agreed to install electric vehicle charging stations on campus that can be used by the public.