Big upgrade for athletic facilities at College of Lake County’s Grayslake campus
The Washington Street entrance to the College of Lake County's main campus in Grayslake has been closed since April 1, but, as with any big project, the thought is the eventual benefit will offset the short-term inconvenience.
In this case, a roundabout is being built to enhance traffic flow on Lancer Lane through the campus and improve access to other points, including a future sports complex.
Access from Washington Street is open only to the University Center of Lake County, which is independent from CLC. University Center Drive will be closed until June 30 and access to the Grayslake and Lake County Tech campuses is being diverted to Brae Loch Road.
Besides the roundabout, work also is in progress for new fields and facilities to benefit CLC baseball and softball teams for the 2027 season.
Facilities play a big role in recruiting college athletes at all levels, according to CLC, and the new upgrades show a commitment to student athletes and support for athletics.
“This project elevates the student-athlete experience and creates a true home for our baseball and softball program,” Athletic Director Brad Unger said in a news release.
“This will be the first time having designated spaces for those programs with locker rooms and team areas,” he added. “This is the first phase in improving our outdoor facilities for Lancer athletic programs.”
Additional seating and amenities for fans also are part of the plan.
Planning began in August 2024 with approval by the CLC board of an $852,000 contract with SmithGroup of Chicago to design the outdoor sports complex and the roundabout on the Grayslake campus.
The projects have different funding sources, but because they are adjacent it was determined a single architect was needed for proper design, coordination and economies of scale.
The table was set in the summer of 2021 when CLC officials agreed to borrow $50 million by issuing bonds.
Major initiatives were $20 million to buy 14 acres, turning a former Lowe’s home improvement store in Gurnee into the Advanced Technology Center, and $10 million for an outdoor sports complex to include baseball and softball fields and tennis courts on the north side of the campus along Washington Street.
“This college has not invested in athletics facilities for a very long time,” then-CLC President Lori Suddick explained.
Unger said the complex located at the main entrance is about visibility and first impressions that “will have the wow factor that creates a sense of pride for both student athletes and the broader campus community.”