CHICAGO — The city council of Chicago has given the green light to an extensive $7 billion initiative aimed at revitalizing the landscape surrounding the United Center, home to the NBA’s Chicago Bulls and the NHL’s Blackhawks. This ambitious project, known as the 1901 Project, is set to replace existing parking lots with a variety of developments including green spaces, diverse housing options, a music venue, and more.
The Reinsdorf and Wirtz families, the owners of the United Center, are leading this project, which is touted to be the largest private investment in the West Side of Chicago. The development will be carried out in phases over a decade and will occupy more than 55 acres of privately held land.
Michael Reinsdorf, CEO of the Bulls, expressed his enthusiasm for this historic venture, stating, “Today is a momentous day for the West Side. This project transcends traditional development. It represents a significant and unprecedented pledge toward our community’s future. We are eager to reimagine the potential of our surroundings and transform this vision into a lasting reality.”
The initial phase of the project features plans for a theater accommodating 6,000 seats, multi-level parking structures that include rooftop green areas, improved pedestrian pathways, bike lanes, as well as hotel and retail spaces. Subsequent phases are anticipated to introduce more housing options and transportation improvements.
Danny Wirtz, chairman of the Blackhawks, highlighted the uniqueness of the venture, remarking, “We set out to create something without a precedent. Our objective is to form environments that support all generations, nurturing a vibrant community that strengthens the cultural and economic essence of the West Side.”
This project approval coincides with other significant developments in the city, as the NFL’s Chicago Bears and MLB’s Chicago White Sox, also connected to the Reinsdorfs, explore new stadium opportunities that involve public funding. The Bears are considering constructing an enclosed stadium adjacent to Soldier Field as part of an innovative museum campus, while also eyeing a 326-acre site in Arlington Heights that could serve as a future stadium location. Additionally, they have shown interest in the former Michael Reese Hospital site located on the near South Side.
Meanwhile, the White Sox are contemplating a relocation from Guaranteed Rate Field, aiming to develop a new stadium as part of a transformative ballpark village in the South Loop, which would incorporate green spaces, living spaces, and retail establishments.
