As part of a larger program of playground renovations at Chicago Public Schools throughout the city, Cordos began early procurement work for Claremont Academy in March of 2023. Claremont Academy’s playground is unique in that it was student designed, and built using sustainably sourced reclaimed materials and driftwood. Construction activities included mass grading, a stormwater retention system, paving and concrete, new playground equipment, and landscaping. Cordos’ team for this project included 30% Minority Business Enterprise and 13.5% Women Business Enterprise participation.

Construction at the Englewood elementary academy began in June of 2023 with excavation and grading. Cordos’ team split the earthwork into two phases to maximize efficiency on a small, challenging site. Common issues occurred, such as undocumented underground obstructions, but the onsite Superintendent team was able to mitigate any schedule delays. 

An on-time preliminary acceptance in August followed by a final completion in October marked another successful Chicago Public Schools project. The final product features a custom student-designed playground with a rubberized asphalt surface, accessible paving and ramps, a sensory panel, and other accessible elements for exploration and learning.