While the Bears’ future in downtown Chicago remains uncertain, their counterparts in the NBA and NHL are making a proposal to enhance the surrounding area of their home just a few miles west.
The Reinsdorf and Wirtz families, owners of the Bulls and Blackhawks, respectively, and co-owners of the United Center (above), have announced a 10-year, $7 billion plan to develop a district around the arena that would include an elevated green space, affordable housing units, and a 6,000-seat entertainment venue.
The proposal, named The Project 1901, still needs approval from the Chicago Plan Commission and the city council. But the project is backed by private investments, a stark difference from the the Bears’ new stadium plan ask of about $900 million in public funding or the pitch of the White Sox—also owned by Reinsdorf—to construct a stadium close to the heart of downtown that is seeking $1 billion in public funds.
“There has been no request for financial assistance,” Chicago Department of Planning and Development commissioner Ciere Boatright said.
‘A Sea of Asphalt’
The 30-year-old United Center stands in the Near West Side neighborhood of Chicago. It’s not viewed as a destination area in the city, and there are few commercial establishments around, in part due to the parking areas by the venue, many of which Reinsdorf has purchased over the last two years likely in preparation for this proposal.
The Project 1901, which would be the largest private investment in the West Side, is looking to upend those parking spaces as part of its development plan.
“It’s a sea of asphalt,” Boatright said about the parking lots. “When you take the economic development perspective, I think it’s an exciting opportunity. I’m looking forward to seeing their formal application when it comes through.”
The neighborhood is also a chore to reach via public transportation—and the portion of the proposal that may require some form of government investment would be an extension of the CTA train line in the area.
The proposal also highlights the stark divide between the United Center and the Cubs’ iconic Wrigley Field, nestled in the North Side neighborhood of Lakeview. The Cubs built a community area called Gallagher Way adjacent to the park to hold events and other social activities, and commercial establishments are within arm’s reach of the field. The closest train stop is also just a block away.
“I am excited for the investment on the West Side, which is often overlooked for this level of private investment. It’s our time,” said Alderman Walter Burnett of the 27th Ward.
