Continuing its resurgence and becoming one of Chicago’s must see neighborhoods, Alderman Anthony Beale (9th Ward), in close collaboration with Chicago Neighborhood Initiatives, Inc. (CNI), received Chicago Plan Commission approval to embark on the next phase of retail and residential development on the former Ryerson steel plant and gateway into the new Pullman National Monument.
Following a vote from the Chicago Plan Commission, the historic Pullman community will be the new home to a new neighborhood retail development, including a Chipotle Mexican Grill and Potbelly restaurant locations and the Pullman Artspace, an affordable live/work space for artists.
Alderman Beale, who has represented Pullman for the past 16 years, says that the Chicago Plan Commission’s approval is another affirmation of the revival of Pullman. “Sixteen years ago, many had written this community off. Yet rather than succumb to the exodus of the steel industry, we are building the economy and community of the future on the footprint of the past,” says Beale. “Where Ryerson Steel existed, today stands Method – one of the nation’s most forward thinking companies and the nation’s largest commercial greenhouse. Where vacant and abandoned structures stood, there are now families creating a new community. And where a burned out building stood, we will soon have a Visitor Center for Chicago’s first National Park.”
The new Chipotle Mexican Grill and Potbelly locations are scheduled to be constructed along 111th street just west of Doty Road, affording more dining options to the Pullman community and visitors to the Pullman National Monument.
The proposed Pullman Artspace, an affordable live/work space for artist, will restore two existing historic apartment buildings at 111th and Langley and incorporate new construction into a housing development that will offer residences for 36 artists as well as common space for classes, exhibitions and workshops.
“The thoughtful planning and redevelopment of Pullman is a perfect example of designing for the future while honoring the history and character of Pullman’s landmark community,” said David Doig, President of CNI, the non-profit community based organization that works to revitalize Pullman through investment in housing, economic development and recreation- al projects. “We welcome the new retail and residential development that will provide local residents with access to amenities and services that have for so long been missing from the neighborhood fabric.”
In the past few years more than $125 million has been invested in Pullman to upgrade or create housing, commercial and industrial enterprises. Among the investments are Method, Walmart, 40 restored homes, the 200 apartment Wheelworks and Gotham Greens.
