Mayor Rahm Emanuel, Chicago Park District General Superintendent Michael P. Kelly, Alderman Taliaferro (29th) and community members today cut the ribbon on a new turf field and running track at Amundsen Park, 6200 West Bloomingdale Avenue, on the city’s west side. This is the most recent project completed under Mayor Emanuel's Building on Burnham plan, a comprehensive vision to invest in Chicago's parks and open spaces.

“Investments like these not only provide spaces for people to get active- for students, they can become a gateway to a brighter future,” Mayor Emanuel said. “The new turf field and running track at Amundsen Park will provide a place for track and field, football, soccer and lacrosse teams to practice and compete, helping athletes increase their chances at obtaining college athletic scholarships.”

The new field features a six-lane, 400-meter running track complete with a long and triple jump sand pit, and a “D zone” outside the south end of the turf field to allow for high jumps; additional upgrades include a digital scoreboard, stadium lighting and a new turf field that can accommodate three sports.

“By installing tracks like these around Chicago, we hope to contribute to the growth of track and field as a sport in the city” said Park District General Superintendent and CEO Michael Kelly. “This new feature can used by athletes looking to train for competitions or by the average person who enjoys running to stay active.”

Amundsen Park Field is the most recent project completed in Building on Burnham, the Mayor's comprehensive plan to invest in the Lakefront, the Chicago River, natural areas and recreational opportunities in neighborhoods across the city. This plan follows the Mayor’s successful expansion of Chicago’s park system in his first mayoral term, which has already added 750 acres of new parkland, 256 new playgrounds and more than $800 million in capital investment from neighborhoods and private sources.

###