Why Ryan Field is Dividing Evanstonians

The Evanston City Council will meet Monday to vote on the Ryan Field renovation after delaying the decision last week. Here’s what to know ahead of the vote — and why it’s been so controversial.

Inside the Renovation

The university unveiled the $800 million renovation plans last fall to replace the current field with a reduced-capacity stadium that could host concerts and other non-football events.

But the Project Divided Residents

Some Evanstonians questioned NU’s lack of transparency and whether the tax-exempt university would fairly contribute to the community. That’s in addition to worries over how rowdy fans and concertgoers could impact noise levels, parking, and traffic, according to Chicago magazine.

Why Was the Vote Tabled?

The Evanston City Council voted 6–2 to table the vote to have more time to look over the university’s new community benefits agreement proposal, which is $157.5 million over 15 years, Evanston Roundtable reported. (Its initial offer was $100 million over 10 years.)

What’s Next?

The Evanston City Council is expected to vote on three items Monday:

• The plan to rebuild the stadium
• The amendment allowing for concerts
• An agreement between the city and university about operational requirements, public benefits to Evanston, and more

What Else Should You Know?

The vote comes after David Braun was officially made Northwestern’s football coach in the wake of the university’s hazing scandal.