DePaul's New Basketball Facility: A Game-Changer for Lincoln Park

In a move that promises to reshape the athletic landscape of Chicago's Lincoln Park neighborhood, DePaul University has announced its plans to construct a brand-new, state-of-the-art basketball practice facility. The $60 million project, which has garnered the formal support of the 43rd Ward Alderman Timmy Knudsen, is set to elevate the university's athletic programs and strengthen its ties with the local community.

Unlocking the Potential of DePaul's Basketball Teams

A Cutting-Edge Training Environment

The new basketball practice facility, set to be built on the northwest corner of North Sheffield Avenue and West Belden Avenue, will provide DePaul's men's and women's basketball teams with a cutting-edge training environment. The facility will feature dedicated practice courts for each program, as well as team dining spaces, a nutrition bar, state-of-the-art sports medicine treatment areas, hydrotherapy facilities, a weight room, and multi-purpose meeting rooms. This comprehensive infrastructure will enable the Blue Demons to thrive both academically and athletically, giving them a competitive edge on the national stage.

Enhancing the Student-Athlete Experience

Director of Athletics DeWayne Peevy expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating, "The new facility will provide our student-athletes with a cutting-edge training environment where they can thrive academically and athletically." This investment in DePaul's athletic programs not only benefits the teams themselves but also enhances the overall student-athlete experience, attracting top talent and fostering a culture of excellence.

A Shared Dream Realized

The announcement of the new basketball practice facility marks the culmination of a long-held dream for many within the DePaul community. Peevy acknowledged the collaborative effort, saying, "This project has long been a shared dream for many. DePaul Athletics is grateful for 43rd Ward Alderman Timmy Knudsen's continued partnership and leadership in bringing our university's vision to reality."

Strengthening DePaul's Competitive Edge

The construction of the new basketball practice facility is a strategic move by DePaul to remain competitive in the ever-evolving landscape of collegiate athletics. By providing its student-athletes with state-of-the-art training facilities, the university aims to attract top talent and enhance its reputation on a national level. This investment in DePaul's athletic programs is seen as vital for the continued vibrancy and desirability of the Lincoln Park neighborhood, as the university is an integral part of the community.

Preserving the Neighborhood's Heritage

Alongside the construction of the new basketball practice facility, DePaul has also committed to preserving the historical significance of the Lincoln Park neighborhood. Alderman Knudsen's letter to constituents highlighted the university's agreement to formally landmark the exteriors of Byrne Hall and Cortelyou Commons, two buildings with historical importance to the community. Additionally, DePaul has pledged to invest in the preservation of O'Connell Hall, ensuring its historic facade and necessary upgrades are maintained for future generations.

Embracing Sustainability and Environmental Responsibility

The updated plans for the basketball practice facility, unveiled in April 2024, reflect DePaul's commitment to environmental sustainability. The building will feature bird-friendly glass and rooftop solar panels, which are expected to decrease the facility's energy use by more than 10%. Furthermore, Alderman Knudsen highlighted DePaul's agreement to install a significant number of electric vehicle charging stations on campus, accessible to the public and operated by a vendor selected by the university.

Garnering Community Support

The proposed basketball practice facility has garnered support from various stakeholders within the Lincoln Park community. The Wrightwood Neighbors Association, in a nearly unanimous board vote, expressed their approval for the project. The Lincoln Park Chamber of Commerce also voiced its endorsement, stating, "A healthy and competitive DePaul University is vital for the vibrancy and health of Lincoln Park. It is an integral part of our neighborhood, and supporting their growth will ensure that Lincoln Park remains a dynamic and desirable place to live and visit."

The Road Ahead

The next steps for the basketball practice facility project involve a series of regulatory approvals and public hearings. DePaul will file an application for zoning approval on or around Wednesday, Oct. 2, which will then be introduced to the Chicago City Council. The Chicago Plan Commission will hold a public hearing and issue a recommendation, followed by a public hearing and recommendation from the City Council Committee on Zoning, Landmarks and Building Standards. Finally, the City Council will hold a public meeting to vote on the project.As DePaul University embarks on this transformative endeavor, the Lincoln Park community eagerly awaits the realization of a facility that promises to elevate the university's athletic programs, preserve the neighborhood's heritage, and foster a sustainable future. This collaborative effort between DePaul and the local stakeholders sets the stage for a new era of athletic excellence and community engagement in the heart of Chicago.