The owners of the United Center announced on Tuesday a monumental $7 billion plan to transform the parking lots and surrounding area into a sprawling mixed-use district, making it the largest private investment ever on Chicago’s West Side.
Dubbed The 1901 Project, this ambitious 10-year development plan aims to revolutionize the West Side with a blend of green spaces, mixed-income housing, a music hall, and more. The construction will be carried out in seven phases, with the first phase expected to begin as early as next year.
This announcement follows the revelation that entities tied to Bulls and White Sox owner Jerry Reinsdorf were behind $44 million in land purchases around the United Center. Simultaneously, the Wirtz family, owners of the Blackhawks, is advancing a separate 700-acre mixed-use development plan in north suburban Mundelein.
Reinsdorf and Wirtz have described The 1901 Project as a “catalytic development” designed to generate tax revenue and jobs for the local community. Pending City Council approval, the first phase could break ground as early as next spring.
“The 1901 Project represents a continuation of our families’ commitment to the future of Chicago’s West Side,” Reinsdorf said. “This investment will create a thriving, interconnected neighborhood, delivering significant benefits and resources to the community we have long called home.”
The Chicago Bulls’ official Twitter account shared a link to the project, though it was briefly hijacked with messages urging Reinsdorf to sell the team.
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The formal planned development application is expected to be submitted to the City Council in September.
Alderman Walter Burnett expressed enthusiasm for the investment, highlighting the often-overlooked potential of the West Side. “The United Center and its leadership team have been strong and trusted partners,” Burnett said. “I look forward to working alongside them to bring this project to life while listening and engaging with the community.”
The 1901 Project promises to reshape the West Side with comprehensive urban development, creating a vibrant community hub and revitalizing the area. If approved, it will be a landmark achievement for the city, demonstrating a significant commitment to improving and investing in historically underfunded neighborhoods.
