Financing for an $18.2 million ice rink and gymnastics complex in Morgan Park would be finalized through a Tax Increment Financing (TIF) and land sale proposal introduced to City Council today by Mayor Rahm Emanuel.

Under construction at 11505 S. Western Ave., the Morgan Park-Beverly Sports Center is planned to include 64,000 square feet of space for recreational, club level, and competitive athletes of all ages.

TIF assistance in the amount of $10 million would be allocated toward its development cost.

“The Morgan Park-Beverly Sports Center will provide a much needed recreational resource on the Far South Side and provide year-long opportunities for athletes and patrons to polish their skills and enjoy physical activity,” Mayor Emanuel said.

The ice rink will offer competitive hockey, figure and recreational skating and include bleacher seating for 850 spectators. The gymnastics center will provide space for training and USA Gymnastics-sanctioned competitions for youth and adults.

Amenities will include skate rentals, concession areas, meeting and party rooms, viewing areas, offices, restrooms, team locker rooms and parking.

“We’ve been working for a long time on this project, which will serve as a tremendous community asset,” said Alderman Matt O’Shea. “This is a great example of government coming together to meet the needs of the people we serve; this investment will benefit current and future generations of children.”

A portion of 115th Street east of Western Avenue was vacated and combined with two parcels of adjacent, City-owned land to accommodate the complex. The parcels would be formally sold to the Park District for $1 each.

Additional project funding includes a $4.2 million grant from the State of Illinois and $4 million from the Park District.

The facility is being planned as the second indoor ice rink and ninth gymnastic facility operated by the Park District. Construction could be completed in 2015.

# # #