Obama Presidential Center

The Obama Presidential Center is a cultural institution located in historic Jackson Park on Chicago’s South Side. The 19-acre campus includes a museum, public library, and new public gathering spaces designed to inspire, empower, and unite people in transforming their communities. The Obama Presidential Center is the first of its kind built in an urban setting, representing a significant investment in the South Side community, intended to serve Chicago and its visitors for generations.

As a proud partner, DMA provided civil engineering services throughout the development of the site. Our work supported the transformation of the campus, from early planning through construction, and included demolition, grading, utilities, stormwater management, geothermal well coordination, construction administration, and the design of all ADA-compliant features throughout the campus. Since the project’s inception, DMA’s engineers have been coordinating with the design team at Tod Williams Billie Tsien Architects, the Chicago Park District, and the Chicago Department of Transportation to align site improvements with the surrounding park and roadway network.

A major component of DMA’s scope involved sustainable stormwater strategies. The team designed an underground cistern that captures building runoff for irrigation reuse, reducing demand on potable water systems. We designed additional on-site drainage to infiltrate groundwater where feasible. Portions of the site also drain directly to Lake Michigan, which required our engineers to carefully plan systems to protect nearby natural resources and meet regulatory requirements.

DMA supported the routing and installation of new site utilities, including water, sewer, and electrical systems, while maintaining service continuity for surrounding park facilities. Grading and earthwork design shaped the site to support new buildings, pathways, and landscape features while improving accessibility and circulation.

Throughout construction, DMA provided administration services to help maintain quality, resolve field conditions, and support the contractor team. The work reflects DMA’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and community impact. As a Chicago-based firm, DMA is honored to have played a role in building a historical landmark that will shape the future of the community.

Learn more about the Obama Presidential Center at obama.org/presidential-center.

DMA also provided structural engineering services for the new Athletic Center.

Image credit: Obama Foundation