New Athletic Field Added at Farragut Career Academy High School in Little Village

A new turf soccer field has been started at Farragut Career Academy High School in Little Village. The mayor’s office has announced that the project is part of a $16.6 million investment in the campus and that the field is set to be completed by fall 2022. The improvements are being done in an effort to position Farragut to grow and thrive as an educational pillar in the community.

In a statement issued by the press office, Mayor Lightfoot said, “This new soccer field is not only an enriching space for Farragut high school students to enjoy, but it’s a reminder that Little Village is an important part of Chicago. These improvements are a fiscal and emotional investment in our youth and our school communities — and just one of many ways that my administration, CPS, and City and State leaders are strategizing to improve our schools and neighborhoods. I’m confident this new soccer field will create generations of soccer players, extracurricular and academic activities that will reflect our collective commitment to the Farragut community.”

Of the total budget, $3.9 million in state funding will go toward the completion of the new turf soccer field, basketball court, scoreboard, ball catcher netting, bleachers, pole-mounted field lighting and all associated electrical infrastructure, site drainage infrastructure, concrete sidewalks, targeted vehicular paving, ornamental fencing, trash enclosure, and gates. Other facility improvements include a new roof, tuckpointing, more electrical updates, and accessibility upgrades including new concrete at the building’s main entrance and an accessible ramp entrance at the rear of the school.

Leaders have committed to strategizing toward creative renovations and solutions that will enrich and empower the student population both at Farragut and other schools to follow throughout the city. This project is part of Mayor Lightfoot’s stated plan to recommit to education by investing in schools across the city.

This renovation and the new athletic facilities at Farragut Career Academy High School are being positioned as the first of many. The impact of this new field will be felt throughout the community, and won’t be limited to current students.  With this project comes more open spaces to play, learn, and grow.

In conjunction with the physical changes, Farragut is to include new academic programs as well, notably the rigorous International Baccalaureate (IB) Program. Including this program is a necessary step to secure the funding and in aligning with the overarching plan put forth by the Mayor’s office and CPS. This educational program opens the door to a new law classroom, teaching lab, and a resource and study room, which will give students access to many educational tools to support their learning.

In the second phase of the project, Chicago Public School (CPS) will utilize funding for the installation of a prefabricated press box, public announcement system, restrooms, and community space which will be added to the site no later than fall 2023.

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