Kankakee High School Fieldhouse Renovation and Addition Kankakee, Ill.

Project Description:

Located within Kankakee High School, the Kankakee Community Center exemplifies a forward-thinking approach to integrated community and educational design. The project, constructed using $10 million in federal ESSER funds secured by the district, reimagines traditional school environments by blending academic, social and wellness functions into a cohesive, multipurpose space.

Design motivation stemmed from the mission to create a hub for both students and the wider community — a place where individuals can connect, grow and thrive. The 82,147-square-foot addition includes four basketball/volleyball courts, a 200-meter track, two long jump pits and a pole vault area. Additionally, two of the courts are lined for indoor tennis. Perimeter and court divider curtains provide flexible separation, and batting cages drop over the track. The retractable bleachers provide event seating for over 750 people. The second floor features new offices for the athletics department and Youth Empowerment Program, as well as a community room for events.

The project also involved renovating 17,706 square feet of the existing high school. The old gym was converted into a cutting-edge indoor practice room with batting cages and synthetic turf. A unique feature that also meets community needs is the daycare classroom, where students taking child development courses are offered experiential learning in their career pathway with infants and young children.