Campus Plans Surface for Moody Bible Institute Redevelopment in Near North Side

In 2019, Moody Bible Institute initiated a plan to sell 10 acres of real estate near its main campus in Near North Side. Having been to JDL to make way for the new North Union megadevelopment, the offloading of these properties resulted in roughly $200 million in net proceeds. These proceeds are now being channeled into campus improvements, new infrastructure, long-term reserves, and educational endowments.

Moody Bible Campus (yellow) and North Union development by JDL (purple)

The centerpiece of this initiative is the introduction of the new Solheim Center, which will serve as Moody’s athletic and wellness facility, relocating its name and function from the previous venue west of Wells Street. In July, the project moved forward with unveiled architectural designs and initial floorplans. Set to be established on Moody’s primary campus, east of Wells Street, this facility aims to bolster student athletics, fitness, events, and continue Moody’s partnerships with local organizations. While Moody’s website has not explicitly named the architect for the new center, the included perspective drawing bears resemblance to other drawings by Hartshorne Plunkard Architecture (HPA). Given HPA’s collaboration on North Union with JDL and the latter’s acquisition of the property from the Moody Bible Institute, there is a hint of the firm’s potential involvement in the design. However, whether HPA is behind the design has yet to be confirmed.

Meanwhile, the campus’ Culbertson Hall is set for a significant renovation expected to start in December of this year and conclude by August of 2024. Currently the men’s residence hall, this $30 million project will modernize the 20-story tower, while converting several of its floors to women’s residences. Meanwhile, Houghton Hall, a women’s residence hall, will have updated furnishings this coming fall semester.

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