Little Italy is witnessing the transformation of a historic site as construction commences at the former National Italian-American Sports Hall of Fame location. Real estate investor and hotelier Jonathan Gordon has planned to turn the existing structure at 1431 W Taylor Street into a 35-room hotel with 11,000 square feet retail space on the first floor.
The project, which marks the expansion of the “Neighborhood” Hotel chain, will cater to extended stays in apartment-style suites. The new hotel will be the third of its kind, joining the chain’s existing locations in Lincoln Park and Grand Beach, MI. Jonathan Gordon’s plans aim to breathe new life into the neighborhood while staying true to its roots.
The hotel’s design incorporates the existing facade and structure of the historic building, complemented by new windows and a new floor that doesn’t alter the overall height. Charlse von Weise of von Weise Associates, is the architect of record.
A key aspect of the development is the commitment to preserving the historical significance of the former Hall of Fame site. The project will be retaining certain elements of the Hall of Fame, such as the wall displaying inductees’ names, to honor the rich history of the neighborhood and its connection to Little Italy.
Several public transit options are closely accessible including access to bus service for Routes 7, 9, X9, 12, 157, all within a five-minute walk. The CTA L’s Pink Line is within a 10-minute walk northwest via Polk station, while the Blue Line at Racine station is a similar distance to the northeast.
A full completion is targeted for summer this year. Freddy N Crew is serving as the general contractor, with the scope of the work reported to cost $3.5 million.
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This is super cool for this historic area.