Investment will Build New Indoor Track at the Pullman Neighborhood Park
CHICAGO –(ENEWSPF)–October 18, 2014. Governor Pat Quinn and Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel today announced a $20 million investment to construct a new indoor track facility at Gately Park in the Pullman Neighborhood. Today’s announcement is part of Governor Quinn’s agenda to increase recreational opportunities, create jobs and drive Illinois’ economy forward.
“Investing in a new recreational space for Gately Park will provide benefits to the community for years to come,” Governor Quinn said. “We are committed to ensuring everyone across Illinois has a place to play and be active. Developing new spaces or updating existing recreational facilities provides families, athletes and neighbors with a safe place to gather, rain or shine. A new track in the Pullman neighborhood means more year-round opportunities for residents of all ages to try a new sport, develop their talents or chase their Olympic dreams.”
“The City of Chicago has never before had a public indoor track, and this facility will enhance Gately Park, which already serves as a legendary community hub,” Mayor Emanuel said. “This new facility will provide a place for track and field teams to practice and compete year round and will help athletes increase their chances at obtaining college athletic scholarships.”
The state is investing $12 million to help build the new facility from Governor Quinn’s Illinois Jobs Now! capital construction program through the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity.
The indoor track and field facility will be constructed at 810 E. 103rd Street. The approximately 66,000 square-foot facility will offer a 200 meter track with eight lanes and a full range of track and field event capability including track and field, long jump, high jump, shot put, hurdles, steeple chase and more. The facility will be an indoor, year-round high quality training and competition center providing recreation for youth through adults. Chicago Park District’s Gately Park also boasts a field house with a complement of programs including afterschool programming, seasonal sports and a teen club.
Located in the Pullman community, Gately Park totals 25.04 acres and features a multi-purpose clubroom. Outside, the park offers a playground, softball/baseball diamonds, basketball courts and Little League Baseball Stadium. Gately Stadium is located in this park and holds youth and high school football games for the entire South Side. In addition to programs, Gately Park hosts fun special events throughout the year for the entire family.
The Gately Park project is part of Governor Quinn’s $31 billion Illinois Jobs Now! program, which will support more than 439,000 jobs over six years. Illinois Jobs Now! is the largest construction program in Illinois history, and is one of the largest construction programs in the nation.
Source: illinois.gov
