CHICAGO—McShane Construction Company has been selected by The Community Builders, Inc. and Quad Communities Development Corporation to provide the comprehensive construction services for the new Arts and Recreation Center at Ellis Park. The new community center is the result of the work of a number of public and private partners including the City of Chicago, Chicago Housing Authority, Chicago Park District and Chicago Public Schools. The 32,000 square foot facility will be constructed on a 3.1-acre parcel situated at the northern edge of Ellis Park at 3520 South Cottage Grove Avenue in Chicago's Bronzeville neighborhood.

The two-story community building will be constructed of precast concrete and metal framing and support a contemporary exterior aesthetic utilizing a mix of artfully designed precast and GFRC (glass fiber reinforced concrete) wall panels. A window-lined lobby will serve as the main access point of the facility showcasing an open staircase leading to a rooftop terrace and green roof system overlooking the surrounding park.

The new facility will offer numerous recreational opportunities within its full-size gymnasium featuring basketball courts, a five-lane indoor swimming pool with an ADA accessible ramp, a fully-equipped fitness center and outfitted locker room facilities. Flexible spaces for art, education and community use will also be completed together with music and theater performance areas. As part of the assignment, McShane will complete the relocation of a city sewer as well as the associated sitework for the project including landscaping, sidewalks and a parking lot utilizing permeable pavers.

“We are honored to have been selected to provide the construction services for this notable project that will serve the residents of Chicago's Bronzeville neighborhood,” said Jeffrey Raday, President of the Rosemont, IL-based construction firm. “McShane Construction's project team will utilize a proven strategy to ensure the seamless coordination of construction actives within this popular city park and overall urban setting. We are confident that our experience will result in the timely completion of the facility allowing residents to enjoy expanded arts and recreational opportunities within their community.”

Booth Hansen is serving as design architect while NIA Architects, Inc. is the architect of record for this comprehensive assignment.

The Community Builders, is a leading not-for profit developer of specializing mixed-use projects.

Instant Insights /

McShane Chosen for Bronzeville Center

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