The 1901 Project: Chicago's Shining Redevelopment
Three Sports Facility Developments Initiated in Chicago Following 1901 Project
Hey there, sports fan! Get ready to dive into some thrilling updates on one of the most ambitious projects taking over Chi-town. The $7 billion 1901 Project is a colossal overhaul of 55 acres, surrounding the United Center, on the Near West Side. It's about to transform this area into a buzzing, vibrant district full of residential, retail, and entertainment venues, giving a major boost to the local community. Plus, you better stay tuned, because there are some state-of-the-art sports facilities about to be introduced!
This redevelopment project, masterminded by LA-based RIOS in collaboration with United Center officials, aims to replace dull surface parking lots with more than 9,000 residential units (sweet deal for the housing market!). But here’s the kicker, 20% of these units will be affordable, making it easier for locals to find a cozy place to call home. Its designers have also planned 1,300 hotel rooms, retail spaces, and a whopping 25 acres of green space for some good old relaxation.
With the Chicago Plan Commission giving it a thumbs-up, the project is now making its way to the Zoning Committee for further review. And guess what? The groundbreaking is set for this very summer! This project sure is moving and shaking things up.
Phase One (Target Completion: 2028)
Once the shovels hit the ground, the transformation is going to get real! Here’s what you can expect in phase one:
- 6,000-seat music hall: Are you ready to rock out? This premier venue will be perfect for concerts and cultural events.
- Elevated Park: Who says you can't enjoy a sunny day with green space? The elevated park will span a staggering 25 acres, providing the perfect spot for recreation, community gatherings, and maybe even a family picnic.
- Improved Infrastructure: Say hello to enhanced walkability, added lighting, bike lanes, and better parking. Getting around town is going to be a breeze!
- Hotels and retail: Get ready for bustling commerce as hotels and retail shops are designed to fuel the local economy and create jobs galore.
The project promises to generate around 32,000 construction jobs, with plenty of long-term gigs to follow. United Center CEO Terry Savarise says, "The project is not an entertainment district. It doesn't come with gates or admission fees to walk on the campus. The 1901 Project is a neighborhood." So, basically, this is a neighborhood built for you and me to enjoy!
Future phases will introduce a mix of affordable, market-rate, and luxury housing, along with transportation upgrades, like potential CTA enhancements. Since the project is privately funded, developers may seek city support for public infrastructure improvements.
So there you have it! The 1901 Project is set to reshape the Near West Side, turning it into a thriving, connected community. Keep your eyes peeled for more updates and exciting developments!
Pickleball Kingdom Expands to the Dayton Area
If you're a pickleball enthusiast, get ready to flip for the latest news from Pickleball Kingdom! This world-renowned indoor pickleball organization is about to open its first Dayton-area facility in Centerville, Florida. Spanning a massive 36,000 square feet, the new complex will boast 13 professional-grade indoor courts, comfortable spectator areas, pro shops, snack bars, and glorious locker rooms with showers.
The Centerville locale will cater to every skill level, offering professional coaching and clinics, youth programs, competitive leagues and tournaments, and hosting community and corporate events. Newcomers can even join a complimentary “Pickleball 101” class to learn the ropes. While the facility operates on a membership basis, open-play hours for the public are also available.
Lake Sheehan, President of Pickleball x Equity, revealed plans to establish 150 locations within their territory, including Ohio, taking over places like Mason and Columbus. Construction on the Centerville facility kicked off in mid-January and is scheduled to open its doors in April. Since its inception in Arizona in 2022, this organization has expanded exponentially, capturing nearly 400 franchise clubs and boasting facilities in Arizona, Texas, Wisconsin, and Tennessee.
Rochester's $65M Sports Complex Advances Amid Controversy
Over in Rochester, the city is moving full steam ahead with its $65 million regional sports complex project. While there's been some debate over exactly what this complex will include and when it will be completed, the City Council recently approved a $5 million purchase of 160 acres along 45th Street SE as the site for the project.
Officials propose a phased approach to the development, starting with outdoor amenities like eight convertible baseball/softball fields, trails, and 800 parking spaces. They're also looking to secure additional funding for indoor facilities. Residents and council members have criticized the proposal, arguing that they expected indoor courts and recreation from the get-go.
Mayor Kim Norton warns that delaying indoor features could affect future legislative funding, while community advocates emphasize the need for year-round, safe spaces for youth to play sports. The complex is slated to span 90 acres, with remaining land reserved for future expansions. With the land secured, final designs are still being finalized as Rochester navigates the delicate balance between budget constraints and community expectations.
But hey! That's a wrap on the news for today. Stay tuned for more updates on sports facilities and events and keep your spirits high, sporty friends!
Investors focusing on real-estate in Chicago might consider the potential returns from the 1901 Project, as its Phase One is set to introduce a 6,000-seat music hall, improved infrastructure, hotels, retail spaces, and an expansive elevated park, all aimed at boosting the local economy and creating thousands of jobs. Furthermore, pickleball enthusiasts can look forward to the opening of a new Pickleball Kingdom facility in Centerville, Florida, offering 13 professional-grade indoor courts, various programs, and events catering to all skill levels.
