Ontario Construction News staff writer
Joliet Catholic Academy has broken ground on the first phase of its Legacy Fields project, a major campus improvement initiative that will expand athletic facilities and create new community spaces.
The groundbreaking ceremony marked the start of construction on Phase I of the Legacy Campaign, following approval from the Joliet City Council for the school’s outdoor athletic facilities project.
Planned improvements include a multipurpose stadium for football and soccer, new tennis courts, expanded campus parking, resurfacing of the existing track, and upgrades to the school’s softball and baseball fields.
The project is part of JCA’s broader $20 million-plus Legacy Campaign, which is supporting campus improvements, academic facilities, land purchases and long-term investments in student programs.
To date, the campaign has raised more than $12.75 million in cash and pledges, including more than $7.2 million designated for construction, land purchases, academic buildings, the Our Lady of Angels property and Phase I construction. An additional $5.5 million-plus has been raised for endowment funding, including tuition assistance and the OSF Legacy Fund for faculty and staff.
“This expansion is about our future; the growth of our school, the growth of our community, and the long-term health of Joliet Catholic Academy,” JCA President and Principal Dr. Jeffrey Budz said in a statement. “The comprehensive Legacy Campaign for JCA reflects our commitment to creating opportunities and facilities that will serve our families and strengthen our community for years to come.”
The groundbreaking ceremony included a blessing of the land, with school officials, supporters, alumni, students, families, faculty, staff, members of the Joliet Franciscan Sisters, the Carmelites and representatives from the City of Joliet joining in the celebration.
JCA said the Legacy Fields project will provide expanded opportunities for students while creating facilities that can serve the broader Joliet community for generations.
