Chicago Construction News staff writer
McHugh Construction and joint-venture partner Nacional Group have broken ground on the new Joanne B. Wagner Community Center, a $85 million project that will replace the Elmhurst Park District’s existing structure with a modern, 127,250-sq. ft., two-story building.
The Dec. 6 groundbreaking at 615 N. West Ave. marked the start of demolition on the former 32,000-sq. ft. center. The new facility, expected to open in fall 2027, is about four times larger than its predecessor and designed to accommodate growing demand for recreation and early childhood programs.
The center will feature a full-size gymnasium, indoor artificial turf field, three-lane elevated walking track, dance and gymnastics studios, multipurpose community rooms, administrative offices, and dedicated early childhood classrooms with a separate secure entrance. Additional amenities include flexible gathering areas and an indoor play area.
“Having delivered numerous public and community facilities throughout Elmhurst, we understand how important this center is to residents,” said Andrew Totten, vice-president of sports, entertainment and special use at McHugh Construction. “We’re honored to partner with Nacional Group to help bring to life a building that will serve current and future generations of families, athletes and learners.”
The facility, designed by Dewberry’s Elmhurst office, incorporates a mass timber ceiling extending from the exterior canopy into the interior, along with a façade that blends masonry, metal panels, glass curtainwalls, and precast concrete.
Nacional Group President Mike Meagher said the partnership with McHugh, which spans more than 30 years, made the project a natural collaboration to serve the Elmhurst community.
