1996 Dyche Stadium Renovation Promises

in August 1996, Rick Taylor, NU's Director of Athletics and Renovation sends a three page pamphlet to the residents closest to the U2 District.

The first page introduces the subject: Rick states : "I'm enclosing some background information on the stadium renovation to answer any immediate questions you might have."

The next two pages follow a "frequent questions" format; 18 questions are asked and answered. Four questions/answers do not cover construction issues, but are in fact about the nature of future intended stadium uses. Emphasis added.

Why are you renovating the stadium?

This is a much needed structural renovation and repair of Dyche Stadium, which was originally built in 1926. It will not only benefit our intercollegiate programs but will make Dyche Stadium safer, more attractive externally, and more comfortable for those who enjoy watching our student-athletes in competition.

Is this project being done so that professional sports can be played in Dyche Stadium?

Absolutely not. The renovation is intended to improve a facility for intercollegiate athletic programs and to make Dyche Stadium more comfortable for those who enjoy watching our student-athletes. The use of the athletic-complexes will remain consistent with zoning ordinances.

Does the renovation include the addition of permanent lights for night games?

No.

Will there be night games at Dyche Stadium?.

No, we do not intend to play night games.

Two things are striking. The uses of all athletic complexes, not just the stadium, will remain consistent with zoning ordinances, which is quite a loophole, and if a loophole, contradicts the earlier statement that the stadium is to benefit intercollegiate programs and student athletes, and that professional sports are absolutely not going to be played in the stadium. For profit events are not mentioned: sin by omission?

Second, re. We do not intend to play night games. The road to hell is paved with good intentions. However, the answer to that question about night games does starts out with a resounding NO.

In the ensuing years nightgames have been held at the Stadium with increased frequency. the 2019 NU text amendment proposal asks to allow professional sports and for-profit events in the entire U2 District.

The neighborhood concludes that NU cannot be trusted with anything it states, promises or "intends", as history repeatedly has shown.

The City of Evanston appears to have forgotten the U2 history or chooses to ignore it.

In one resident's words: THE CITY OF EVANSTON WORKS FOR NU, NOT YOU!