Environmental Hazards Stall New Cubs Field Construction

Construction is stalled at the new Kerry Wood Cubs Field at Clark Park after crews discovered low concentrations of hazardous pollution.

Located behind Lane Tech College Prep High School, the Kerry Wood field will be a baseball diamond with seating for 1,100 fans to be used by Chicago public high schools citywide. Officials broke ground at the site in October, but according to Cubs Vice President of Communications Julian Green, the issues were discovered shortly after.

• PHOTOS: Construction Under Way at New Cubs Field

Known in the industry a “brownfield,” the site was apparently found to have low levels of pollution and contamination. Green says they’re working on a remedy to the issue before construction can begin.

“I don’t know what was found exactly, but we’re working with the schools, parks and the alderman to do some environmental mediation at the park site,” Green said. “We’re still planning to move forward with the park. From what I understand, in the construction world, this is not a unique situation.”

The ballpark was initially slated for completion in the first half of 2013, but Green says he’s not sure how this find will affect the construction timeline. Once completed, the $5 million stadium will be owned and operated by the Chicago Park District.

Although it’s still unclear how long the cleanup process will take, Green says crews want to get started as soon as possible to take advantage of the spring construction season.

“Obviously with any major construction project, you need to ensure that parks and building sites designated for public use will be fine for children to play on for decades to come,” Green said. “We’re going to do this upfront work first.”

Kerry Wood retired during the 2012 baseball season as a fan favorite for the Chicago Cubs after a career that included two All-Star appearances, National League Rookie of the Year honors and a share of the record for most strikeouts in a nine-inning game, 20, during a May 6, 1998, win over the Houston Astros.

Kerry and his wife Sarah formed the Wood Family Foundation in 2011 and now focus on the community and its children.

Follow us on Facebook: Lincoln Park / Lake View / Lincoln Square / Bucktown-Wicker Park /North Center-Roscoe Village