Financing has been cleared to move forward for the Congress Theater redevelopment at 2135 N Milwaukee Avenue in Logan Square. Located on the intersection with N Rockwell Street, we last covered the project mid-2022 when it originally presented its plans towards financing which includes city financing. Now after various delays developer Baum Revision can move forward with its requests for the Woodhouse Tinucci Architects-designed proposal.
Section of Congress Theater via Chicago Architecture Blog
Interior View of Congress Theater. Rendering by Woodhouse Tinucci Architects
The 1926-built movie house was designed in a mix of Classical Revival and Italian Renaissance styles with a capacity of 2,900 moviegoers, 17 retail storefronts, and 56 apartments. Over the years its uses changed before closing in 2013 due to multiple safety violations, leaving the iconic structure to decay significantly as it sat empty with its first redevelopment plan also failing. Now Baum Revision is pushing forward with its proposal which will begin with a facade restoration and a new marquee sign as well.
Street View of Congress Theater. Rendering by Woodhouse Tinucci Architects
Lobby View of Congress Theater. Rendering by Woodhouse Tinucci Architects
On the inside the main hall will be restored as a 2,900-seat live music venue with the ability to also hold theater performances operated by AEG, 14 of the original retail spaces will also be restored with repaired storefronts for a total of 5,400 square feet. The upper floors saw a slight change in plan with the originally proposed 20 residential units lowered to 16 of which 14 will be considered affordable, the remaining space will go towards an added office and work space.
View of Congress Theater. Rendering by Woodhouse Tinucci Architects
With an increased cost of $88 million, up from last year’s $70.4 million, the developer is applying for $21 million in TIF funds from the Fullerton/Milwaukee TIF district which were recently blocked by the 10th ward alderwoman due to labor concerns according to Block Club. Now the local labor union and AEG have struck a deal and thus the request for funds can now move forward towards city approval, though at the moment there is no confirmed construction timeline.
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Great reporting. You have increased my business. Thank you
Great news!
Really sad how the unions and the affordable housing lunatics prevented this project from moving forward. When it first started, the building was still in good shape. Now anyone walking by can see how badly deteriorated it has become. No wonder the cost has ballooned as much as it has.
The alderman held up the project for her friends in some particular union. Which gives her money. It’s an extortion racket, I tell you.
It’s at least a good thing we have YIMBY to report the news. Thanks, folks!