Winnemac Park in Lincoln Square has opened its newly renovated artificial turf fields, with the improvements ready for use as of March 25. The upgrades aim to address long-standing issues with muddy playing surfaces that previously made it difficult for neighbors and students to play baseball or soccer after heavy rains.
The project is significant for local sports teams, especially Amundsen High School athletes who have struggled with field conditions for at least a decade. Coaches said players often had to prepare the muddy fields before practice could safely begin. The renovations included installing an artificial turf infield, grading work, and stormwater improvements designed to better drain both the baseball outfield and soccer field.
According to Alderman Andre Vasquez (40th), about $2 million from the now-expired Western Avenue (North) Tax Increment Financing district funded these changes. In addition to the new turf, park visitors can also enjoy upgraded benches, backstops, a batting cage, scoreboard, bleachers, and sidewalks. “The fields are ready for play,” Park District spokesperson Irene Tostado said.
A ribbon-cutting ceremony is scheduled for April 10 at 3:30 p.m., just before an Amundsen vs. Mather baseball game that will feature urban historian Shermann “Dilla” Thomas throwing out the first pitch. Vasquez credited various groups—including Friends of Amundson, Chicago Public Schools, the Park District, Amundson High School athletics and other community stakeholders—for making the renovation possible.
“I’m incredibly grateful for the partnership to see us be able to get the turf completed, to be able to create the spaces for our youth and to be able to engage in athletics,” Vasquez said.
Vasquez added that there will also be a land acknowledgment during the ceremony recognizing Winnemac Park’s namesake. “I look forward to being able to celebrate with all our neighbors. This is something that was years in the making,” he said.
