Chicago Park District Rehabilitates, Cuts the Ribbon on the Iowa Building in Jackson Park

Historic city building repurposed as a picnic shelter for the Hyde Park community

Friday, June 28th at 11am, Park District General Superintendent & CEO Rosa Escareño joined Alderman Yancy and community stakeholders in Jackson Park to cut the ribbon on the much-anticipated restoration of the Iowa Building, located north of 57th, just west of DuSable Lake Shore Drive. After a three-year rehabilitation project, the historic building will reopen and serve as a picnic shelter for the community to use.

"It is critical that we protect our historic assets and enhance community resources," said Chicago Park District General Superintendent & CEO Rosa Escareño. "I'm thrilled to reopen the rehabilitated Iowa Building and further our commitment to creating spaces for residents to gather and appreciate the natural beauty of our parks."

The $2.4 million project included the restoration of lannon stone and masonry walls, replacement of the asphalt shingled roof, new gutters and downspouts and interior concrete work. The doors and windows were restored, new accessible washroom fixtures were added, as well as new plumbing, ventilation and utility upgrades. The site work also created a new and improved accessible path leading to the building restrooms, arcade and courtyard.

The project was funded through an Open Space Lands Acquisition and Development (OSLAD) Grant which included the Iowa Building rehabilitation and improvements to ballfields in Jackson Park. The building has a long history dating back to before the World's Columbian Exposition. The Park District started the process of repairing the building in 2021. The historic site will now serve as a community area for park patrons to enjoy picnics and other outdoor activities.