Providence plans to construct new commons, cafeteria space

NEW LENOX – Construction of an addition to Providence Catholic High School is expected to begin this summer.

Providence officials plan to add a 21,800-square-foot student commons and cafeteria space to the southwest portion of the New Lenox private school. The addition is expected to be complete later this year or early next year.

The increased space will make it possible for the school to consolidate four lunch periods into two, freeing up more time for new electives as well as providing a welcoming central space for students to gather, school officials said.

“It will be a place for [students] to go and to be,” said the Rev. Richard McGrath, Providence president.

He said the project is being funded through a capital campaign to raise $6 million. Since the campaign began in July, he said $3.5 million has been raised for the project, and the school will have $1 million in reserves to use as well.

“People have been very generous thus far,” McGrath said.

The new space will include a larger modern kitchen, a food court, a concession space, additional restrooms and a new entrance that will feature a “spacious roundabout pickup [and] drop-off area,” according to Providence’s website.

Providence officials plan to celebrate the school's 100th anniversary next year, and they consider the project part of an effort to build the school’s legacy by planning for the future.

In a brochure on the capital campaign, McGrath said Providence is fortunate to be near enrollment capacity and that its "financial standing is very strong," with balanced budgets and a healthy endowment fund of $4.3 million. The school's enrollment this year is 1,036, according to its website.

Since 2002, the school has replaced both its gym floors; improved air circulation; refurbished hallways; installed turf, track and lighting; upgraded its sports facilities; and installed wireless technology, among other improvements.