Near West Side's Skyline Is About to Get Crowded — In the Best Way Possible

By Socialhood News · Il/Chicago/Near West Side · June 29, 2026

Near West Side neighbors, the construction cranes aren't going anywhere — and that's a very good thing. A flurry of freshly greenlit residential and commercial projects signals that your neighborhood's growth story is still being written, with some of the most exciting chapters just now beginning.

On the commercial front, global law firm Sidley Austin has signed on as the anchor tenant for the highly anticipated 725 W. Randolph tower, a major new office development in Fulton Market slated to open in 2030. It's a landmark commitment that puts one of the world's most prestigious firms squarely in your neighborhood's backyard — and validates Fulton Market's status as Chicago's premier destination for world-class tenants. Meanwhile, on the residential side, 410 North Elizabeth just received its caisson drilling permit, officially launching construction on the first of two planned towers by Weldon Development Group. The 33-story building will bring 384 new homes to the neighborhood. Add to that the City Council's recent approval of a mixed-use development at 215 N. Racine — a 30-story tower with 347 apartments and ground-floor retail — and the Near West Side's housing pipeline is looking more robust than ever.

More neighbors, more businesses, more community — the Near West Side is building something extraordinary. Follow Chicago YIMBY and Urbanize Chicago for the latest permitting and construction updates, and get out this week to watch your neighborhood's skyline take shape!

Sources:
1. https://chicago.urbanize.city/neighborhood/fulton-market
2. https://chicagoyimby.com/category/fulton-market