Historic $7 Billion 'The 1901 Project' Set to Break Ground on Near West Side This Spring
By Socialhood News · Il/Chicago/Near West Side ·
The Near West Side is preparing for a transformative moment as the first phase of The 1901 Project is scheduled to begin construction in spring 2025. This initial phase will feature a 6,000-seat capacity theater-style music hall designed to attract music, arts, and cultural events, enhancing Chicago's entertainment industry.
Led by United Center owners Michael Reinsdorf and Danny Wirtz, the $7 billion development project will reshape more than 55 acres of privately owned land surrounding the arena and is being called the largest private investment ever for the city's West Side. The comprehensive plan includes an elevated park providing over 10 acres of public recreational and community gathering space, along with reimagined parking facilities and improved pedestrian experiences featuring enhanced walkability, lighting, roads, and bike lanes designed to integrate seamlessly with the neighborhood.
Community members are encouraged to attend upcoming public information sessions to learn more about the project's timeline and economic benefits. The development is estimated to create approximately 63,000 construction jobs throughout its duration, with Phase One alone generating about 2,000 positions. When completed, The 1901 Project will include 9,463 new homes with 20% reserved for affordable housing, transforming what are currently surface parking lots into a vibrant mixed-use neighborhood.
Sources:
1. https://www.rios.com/news/united-center-owners-unveil-transformative-7b-private-investment-on-chicagos-west-side/
2. https://www.constructiondive.com/news/chicago-united-center-mixed-use-1901-project/725341/
3. https://chicago.urbanize.city/post/plan-commission-approves-1901-project
4. https://www.enr.com/articles/60317-7b-plan-to-rebuild-united-center-neighborhood-okayed-by-chicago-city-council