Gill Athletics, the largest manufacturer of track and field equipment in the world, operated in Urbana for over 70 years before choosing The Atkins Group to manage the design and construction of a new 82,000 sf facility in 2004. The $3.1 million built-to-suit project was completed in seven months after four months of planning. Due to increased efficiencies in the new Champaign plant, Gill was able to shut down its manufacturing facility in Eugene, Oregon.

In 2006, Gill Athletics purchased Porter Athletic, a world leader in sports equipment. To complete Gill/Porter’s merger, an expansion of the existing Champaign facility was necessary, including a 23,900 sf, two-story office addition and a 98,700 sf plant expansion. The Atkins Group has grown along with Gill and was able to accommodate them as needed through this merger and transitional period.  Atkins provided assistance with platting, easements, design review, construction observation, scheduling, pay requests review, and securing local incentives and energy rebates.

The combined facility produces hurdles, vaulting poles, pole vault pits, track carts, stands and cages for the Gill line as well as equipment for basketball, volleyball, wrestling, soccer, baseball, and physical education for the Porter line.

Project Type: Build To Suit-Lease
Acreage: 23.60
Square Footage: 204934

Mark Dixon

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