Arts & Entertainment
United Center Owners Unveil $7B Proposal to Redevelop Area Surrounding Arena Into Mixed-Use Space
Rendering of $7 billion mixed-use development plan surrounding United Center. (Courtesy of RIOS)
A multi-phased $7 billion plan would transform the site surrounding the United Center into a mixed-use development that features entertainment, housing, retail and more, according to plans unveiled Tuesday by Chicago Bulls owner Michael Reinsdorf and Chicago Blackhawks owner Danny Wirtz.
The privately funded plan would redevelop more than 55 acres of land surrounding the United Center to include a music hall, housing, hotels, retail space and public space.
If approved by the city, the first phase of construction could begin as soon as spring 2025.
The initial phase of the project would focus on redeveloping surface parking lots adjacent to the arena. The first phase would start construction of a 6,000-seat-capacity theater-style music hall, green space, and hotel and retail options.
The development plan, named the 1901 Project, is a reference to the United Center's address at 1901 W. Madison St. on the city’s Near West Side.
“The vision for The 1901 Project is to bring impactful investment and economic opportunity to the West Side that complements and supports its rich history and galvanizes its vibrancy,” Wirtz said in a news release.
The United Center is home to the Chicago Bulls and the Chicago Blackhawks. The arena hosts more than 200 events each year, including sporting events and musical performers, welcoming 3 million guests annually.
Developers said the project is estimated to create $4.5 billion in annual economic impact and provide $104 million in annual tax revenue. The development is also expected to create approximately 63,000 construction jobs, and upon completion, is expected to support around 12,000 permanent jobs.
The length of the project is dependent on city processes and community dialogue, according to a United Center spokesperson.
“While the project still requires city and community feedback, I am excited for the investment on the West Side, which is often overlooked for this level of private investment,” Ald. Walter Burnett (27th Ward) said in a news release. “It’s our time.”
Rendering of $7 billion mixed-use development plan surrounding United Center. (Courtesy of RIOS)
Rendering of $7 billion mixed-use development plan surrounding United Center. (Courtesy of RIOS)
Rendering of $7 billion mixed-use development plan surrounding United Center. (Courtesy of RIOS)
Contact Eunice Alpasan: @eunicealpasan | 773-509-5362 | [email protected]
