Memorial Park Stadium Construction Update
The new Stadium is really taking shape now. Once the new concrete foundation, footing and lower level floor were poured (a total of 361 yards of concrete) a waterproofing membrane was installed on the exterior of the foundation, as well as a drain tile along the interior and exterior of the east wall.
The construction has been plagued by rainfall and the water table; the installation of the membrane and drain tile was necessary to protect the new foundation. The soil is mostly sand and the water table is not very far below grade level. In fact, the hill that runs though the park and that the stadium is built into was once a river bank. We also installed five sump pump pits when construction resumed in the spring to try and keep the area dry enough to continue the work. Unfortunately, heavy rainfalls still caused several work stoppages. I was not surprised to read an article recently that stated that 2011 was the second wettest year in history.
Backfilling along the exterior walls was completed and a natural gas line installed. Next came the installation of the precast vertical columns located in the East wall of the Stadium; they give the Stadium the “old school” look. The capacity of the new stadium is 724. The columns have support poles holding them in place that will remain until all of the masonry work in completed. The bricklayers were then able to build the North, South and East walls to the height required to accept the structural steel needed to support the bleacher seating and walkways. That is when we brought in the cranes and ironworkers that you may have noticed last month. The structural steel beams and cross supports were set into place and the precast walkways and stairs were installed. All of the seating and some of the handrail have also been installed.
Once all the bleachers and the structural steel were installed the bricklayers started up again and should complete the masonry work in early February. With the winter weather moving in we may not get the new sidewalks and landscaping in until spring but the vast majority of the work will be done by the end of February.
The mild temperatures have been good for the Stadium construction but the lack of snow has prevented the opening of the new sled launch. We also have not been able to start the ice rink at Hart Park because of mild temperatures. Stay tuned for further updates on all weather-related Park District activities, as well as program information by visiting our website at www.blueislandparks.org.
Thanks for your patience, Bob Manthei, Director Blue Island Park District
For more information please visit the Blue Island Park District Website