As summer draws to a close, Freedom Park at Burnham Navy Pier continues to make steady progress behind the scenes. While much of the work isn’t always visible to visitors, every improvement is an important step toward creating a park that will serve our community for generations.
I’m excited to share that one of our biggest construction milestones is now complete. The structural reinforcement around the area once occupied by Building 11, known as the “Mole,” has been completed. With this work behind us, another critical piece of the historic pier is ready for the next phase of construction.
Construction crews are also making excellent progress installing nearly 2,000 feet of new water pipe beneath the pier, with completion expected by the end of summer. These improvements will support both museum operations and the future needs of Freedom Park. Planning also continues for the park’s electrical infrastructure, with electrical upgrades expected to begin later this year. At the same time, final design work is wrapping up for the park’s visible features, including landscaping, lighting, walls and other visitor amenities. Those elements are expected to begin taking shape in spring 2027.
Each completed phase brings us one step closer to transforming Navy Pier into a welcoming public space that honors service, sacrifice and our shared history.
That spirit of community was on full display during our July Fourth benefit concert celebrating America’s 250th birthday. As thousands gathered to enjoy an evening of music and fireworks aboard Midway, they also helped advance the future of Freedom Park. It was a wonderful reminder that there are many ways to support this project, whether by attending a special event, sharing its story or making a charitable gift.
It may seem early to think about year-end giving, but August is the perfect time to begin those conversations. If you’re age 70½ or older, a qualified charitable distribution (QCD) from your IRA can be one of the most tax-efficient ways to support Freedom Park while potentially reducing your taxable income. Planning ahead gives you and your financial advisor time to determine a giving strategy that best meets your philanthropic and financial goals.
Every time I walk the pier, I’m reminded that none of this happens without you. Every milestone we celebrate, every utility installed and every future garden, pathway and commemorative brick begins with the generosity of people who believe this project matters.
Thank you for being part of Freedom Park’s story. Your support is creating far more than a beautiful waterfront park. You’re helping build a place where veterans are honored, families gather, stories are preserved and future generations can better understand the sacrifices that protect our freedoms. We are deeply grateful for your partnership and for the trust you place in us to bring this vision to life.
Any time of year is the right time to review your future financial planning. We hope you’ll consider adding Midway in those decisions through a QED, annuity, or a planned estate gift and join our prestigious Patriots Society. The Patriots Society is Midway’s gateway for enduring support. By choosing a planned gift, we can build a legacy of impact that will resonate with the museum for years to come. For more information on Midway’s Patriot Society, contact Christina Case at ccase@midway.org. Thanks in advance for making Midway part of your philanthropic circle.
Comments are closed.