New Sports Facility Approved for Near West Side, Bringing Youth Programs and Community Recreation

By Socialhood News · Il/Chicago/Near West Side · October 20, 2025

The Near West Side will soon be home to a state-of-the-art sports facility, as the Zoning Board of Appeals has approved plans by the Illinois Basketball Academy for a new complex at 1802 W. Lake Street, near the United Center. Designed by Wefing Design Studio, the development will feature a three-story building at the corner of N. Wood St and W. Lake St, connected to a long air-supported dome that will enclose multiple sports courts.

The facility will provide much-needed space for local sports leagues to partner with each other and host tournaments, recreational leagues, training clinics, and open play sessions. It will also house and host programming for the non-profit CVC Foundation, enabling year-round sports activities, tutorial services, after-school programming, and support services for at-risk youth. Beyond basketball, the versatile dome will accommodate a variety of recreational activities including soccer, lacrosse, flag football, pickleball, and volleyball.

Founded in 2003, the Illinois Basketball Academy has a strong track record of providing basketball instruction to boys and girls in K-12 grades, as well as training for college and professional players. This will be the Academy's first Chicago-based facility, complementing its existing 57,000 square foot complex in suburban Lisle. Residents interested in learning more about programs or volunteer opportunities can visit the Illinois Basketball Academy website or attend the upcoming Near West Side community meeting scheduled for late October.

Sources:
1. https://chicago.urbanize.city/post/zba-approves-plans-sports-facility-1802-w-lake