This month, officials began preparations to tear down six of the original nine structures at the Ickes Homes, opened in the 1950s. They say the buildings are too old to save, and that the residents who stayed now occupy little more than a third of the two structures that will remain standing.We drove by the Ickes' Homes today and the most Northern building (at the corner of State and Cermack) has already started the demolition process. It looks like the windows/boards on the top 3 or 4 floors have already been knocked out. We wonder what the city has planned for this space?
The article speculates about commercial property or even a venue for the 2016 Olympics:
In March, officials at the authority announced that they would demolish six of the Ickes buildings. The decision, backed by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, has sparked speculation about whether the city will use the soon-vacant land for commercial development or a potential Olympic venue should Chicago win the 2016 bid.
(Image from Chi-Town Daily News)
3 comments:
Now we can feel a little safer when we walk home at night from a rock show at Reggies... (Never been there). I can finally go to white castle too!
It makes sense to tear down unused building since they cost so much to keep running and they're basically used to cover criminal activity. It's a boon for everyone, including the people living at the Hillard homes.
These buildings were built to supply much needed housing in the 50's, but were not expected to last more than 50 years. Through many, many years of poor maintenance, tenant abuse and harboring gangs and drug dealers, this facility can no longer house anyone. It had gotten so bad that this development has become a burden on the entire neighborhood. Since closing many of the buildings last year, I have watched the area flourish. The drug dealers and addicts have disappeared and I can drive south on State with my windows open again.
Trying to place all of the blame on the CHA is absolutely ridiculous. The culture of drugs and gangs has transformed this place into a hell hole. Anyone able to leave should feel very fortunate for themselves and for their children.
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