Path Construction is proud to lead a transformative project for Chicago Public Schools (CPS): a brand-new social justice track and football field. What was once an uneven natural grass lot is being transformed into a modern turf field and running track, providing students with a safe, permanent space to practice, play, and gather. For the first time, this school will have a home field of its own instead of relying on borrowed facilities.
Building on Challenging Ground
One of the most unique aspects of this project has nothing to do with the turf or track surface—it’s the ground beneath them. Decades ago, the site housed a manufacturing facility that left behind contaminated soil. To ensure student safety, Path Construction installed a protective system: a three-foot clean soil barrier separating the playing surface from contaminated soil. Where natural grading did not allow for this depth, crews excavated and replaced contaminated soil before rebuilding the barrier to standard.
Managing Stormwater and Infrastructure
Another critical feature of the project is the new stormwater management system. Crews installed a network of large corrugated metal pipes, each 90 inches in diameter, stretching 100 feet in both length and width. This system captures and controls rainwater, ensuring the field drains properly during heavy storms and remains usable year-round.
Overcoming Scheduling Challenges
Delivering this project on time required both strategy and resilience. Weather delays, especially rain, threatened to disrupt the installation of the asphalt base needed for the track. Since asphalt must cure for 30 days before the track surface can be added, timing was essential. Crews worked weekends and through difficult conditions to ensure the asphalt was placed on schedule. Thanks to their efforts, the project remains on track for the next phases: track surfacing in October, followed by turf installation and goalposts in November. Phase 2 will include electrical work coordinated with ComEd.
For the Students
At its core, this project is about equity and opportunity. With a dedicated home field, students will be able to practice and compete without traveling to other schools. CPS leadership has praised Path Construction’s progress and quality, recognizing this project as an investment in safety, community, and student success.
