THE Chicago Bulls and Blackhawks have revealed their $7 billion vision to transform the area around the United Center.
Known as Project 1901, the mixed-use development will create a thriving Chicago neighborhood that includes a 6,000-seat music hall, hotel and new green spaces.
6
6
The project is expected to take 10 years to complete, with work beginning in spring 2025.
It is privately funded by the families of Bulls CEO Michael Reinsdorf and Blackhawks president Danny Wirtz, who co-own the United Center.
“We think now is the right time and the city is ready for this, and we are ready to do it and do it well,” Wirtz said.
“It’s been, I think informally, probably the last five to ten years that we’ve been talking about this.
“So it’s not like we wake up one day and make some plans.
“You’re making a huge generational gamble.”
The name is a play on the address of the United Center, 1901 W. Madison St.
Other improvements to Chicago’s West Side neighborhood include multiple dining and retail options, a hotel and approximately 5,000 mixed-income housing units.
There are currently seven phases planned in the 55-acre project.
The first phase, which will cost US$767 million, will transform parking lots around the arena into new public spaces.
It includes a 6,000-seat theater, multi-level parking with more than 10 acres of rooftop public green space, and pedestrian-friendly sidewalks and bike paths.
It is being overseen by Los Angeles-based design firm RIOS.
According to organizers, the plan would create 63,000 jobs and 13,000 permanent jobs.
The hope is to create an annual economic impact of $4.5 billion.
Everything depends on the approval of the City Council.
Elsewhere in the city, the Chicago Cubs have successfully developed Wrigleyville in recent years.
6
6
6
Meanwhile, the White Sox and Chicago Bears are looking to develop new facilities.
Both teams are seeking public funding for these projects.
“This is not an entertainment district. We’re building an entertainment district,” Reinsdorf said.
“We are transforming this neighborhood.”
This story originally appeared on The-sun.com read the full story
