chi-Harper Building M - Exterior Rendering (2)

CHICAGO—Mortenson Construction has just launched a major renovation and expansion of Harper College's sports and wellness center in Palatine, IL. The $38 million project will include the renovation of Building M, a two-story, 130,000 square foot structure, and the construction of a 10,000 square foot addition which will house a medical clinic run by Northwest Community Healthcare for students, faculty and staff of the community college, along with area residents.

Harper College, along with Mortenson and architect Cannon Design, held a groundbreaking for the modernization project on April 10.

“Harper College is dedicated to not only providing affordable educational opportunities but promoting the health and wellness of those at the college and in its local communities,” says Andy Gibbons, project manager for Mortenson. “To realize these goals, Harper is forming innovative public-private partnerships with Northwest Community Healthcare and the Palatine Park District.”

Mortenson has completed $1.3 billion in higher education new construction and renovations across the US in the last 10 years. In Chicago, the family-owned firm built the Jeanne Gang-designed residence hall for the University of Chicago that opened in the fall of 2016. Other projects include the $69 million renovation of the College of DuPage's library and McAninch Arts Center, and the $27 million construction of Valparaiso University's first suite-style residence hall.

Building M, home to the school's athletics, kinesiology and health education departments, as well as a pool, fitness center and gym, was closed and won't reopen until Mortenson completes the renovation in August 2018. In addition to a total renovation and upgrading of these current departments, team training facilities, and fitness and public spaces, Mortenson will add a new sports medicine area, exercise rooms, and six classrooms.

Harper College, along with Mortenson and architect Cannon Design, held a groundbreaking for the modernization project on April 10.

Instant Insights /

Mortenson Begins $38 Million Suburban Wellness Center

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