Despite chilling temperatures, crews this week continued work on UPMC Graham Field, the future home of the Chatham University Cougars.

The university’s $3.1 million renovation of the former Wilkinsburg High School football field along Penn Avenue will be used for Chatham’s men’s and women’s lacrosse and soccer teams.

Wilkinsburg School District signed off on the 25-year lease of Graham Field last year for $1 per year. The renovations, which also have the support of the borough council as part of the borough’s comprehensive plan, include renovations to bleachers and locker rooms, as well as the installation of artificial turn, new lighting and a new parking area.

The project is being funded primarily through grants including $1 million from the commonwealth’s Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program, $1 million from UPMC and $250,000 from Dollar Bank.

Earlier this year, Walt Fowler, Chatham’s vice president of business and finance, said the university will be responsible for the maintenance and utilities cost for the field.

Chatham officials added that the university’s use of the field will not impact the area’s youth football teams, which will still be able to practice and hold games there when not in use by the university’s teams.

“Our soccer games will be later, so Pee Wee football can play early,” said Leonard Trevino, Chatham’s athletic director.

Mr. Trevino said the field also will be marked for high school football games because Imani Christian Academy will continue to use the field.

Residents who use the field as a walking track will be able to do so in the mornings.

First Published: November 21, 2019, 5:59 p.m.