Campus improvements to create Chicago jobs
Posted on January 4, 2016
A number of new campus improvements will create more Chicago construction jobs.
Universities across Chicago are planning more than $2.5 billion in economic and community investments over the next three years that are expected to create more than 10,000 construction jobs.
Each university has signed a memorandum of understanding in which the schools outlined their anticipated private investments in local neighborhoods and the city reinforced its commitment to supporting the projects through timely review and approval of building permits and public infrastructure investments.
Collectively, the schools represent more than 118,000 undergraduate and graduate students and employ more than 60,000 faculty and staff. The improvements for each school include:
DePaul University
DePaul’s agreement anticipates $230 million in new capital investments, including new music and science facilities in Lincoln Park and a new 10,000-seat events center currently under construction on the Near South Side. DePaul will also continue a variety of public school partnership agreements with CPS.
“Eighty percent of DePaul graduates stay in Chicago and make their lives here, making DePaul a net importer of talent to this city. We want Chicago to thrive and we’re proud to partner with the City and support its growth,” said the Rev. Dennis H. Holtschneider, C.M.
Illinois Institute of Technology (IIT)
IIT’s $100 million improvement plan in Bronzeville includes a new Kaplan Institute for Innovation and Tech Entrepreneurship, the reutilization of the Main Building for rental housing, and renovated residence halls. IIT will also continue its summer programs for Chicago Public Schools students and partnerships with Community Colleges of Chicago.
“IIT’s role as a community anchor continues to evolve through targeted investments like the Kaplan Institute and improved housing resources. Our agreement with the City will help maximize these investments for students, staff, and the entire neighborhood for years to come,” said President Alan W. Cramb.
Loyola University
Loyola anticipates $169 million in planned improvements at its Rogers Park and Water Tower campuses, including a new hotel near the Loyola CTA station, a new athletic training facility, and the establishment of a new junior college.
“The new partnership with the City will help Loyola address issues of livability in its communities by developing innovative academic opportunities in engineering, more pedestrian and bike friendly public areas and by attracting new multi-use development,” said Philip Hale, vice president of public affairs.
Northwestern University
Northwestern’s $455 million in planned improvements are centered around a new Simpson-Querrey Institute Biomedical Research Center and renovations to the Abbott Building, both on its Streeterville campus. The school will also maintain and enhance its partnerships with CPS and CCC.