Northwestern University and the Turner-Walsh Joint Venture have marked a major construction milestone for the new Ryan Field in Evanston, Illinois, with the ceremonial placement of the project’s final steel beam. The topping-out event signals the completion of the stadium’s structural phase and ongoing progress toward delivering one of the most advanced athletic venues in the country.
The celebration brought together more than 400 construction workers, University leaders, city officials, and members of the Ryan family. The final beam—signed by architects, engineers, construction teams, and trade partners—symbolized the collaborative effort behind the transformational, privately funded $850 million project.
Speakers included Evanston Mayor Daniel Biss, Northwestern Athletic Director Mark Jackson, and several members of the Ryan family, all of whom recognized the skilled workforce and the long-term impact the new stadium will have on the community.
“There’s never been anything like this in the history of college athletics, and it separates itself on so many different fronts,” Jackson said.
Pat Ryan Jr., CEO of Ryan Sports Development, emphasized the project’s engineering excellence and craftsmanship. “It’ll be the most intimate stadium in America,” he said. “That’s because of the incredible engineering that went into it, but also the incredible craftsmanship.”
Kate Van Zeyl, Vice President and General Manager at Turner Construction Company, highlighted the collaborative spirit driving the project forward. “This milestone reflects not just the progress of a stadium, but the strength of a community working together to create opportunity, sustainability, and lasting impact,” she said.
Set to open in 2026, the new Ryan Field is designed to be one of the most accessible and sustainable stadiums in college sports. The project is targeting LEED Gold certification and will feature enhanced green spaces, improved public amenities, and a design centered on community access and environmental stewardship.
