I wanted to get folks opinions/ideas on what to do with the Ickes site. I may have a voice to present or at least share ideas with the CHA planning board. In my opinion, I think they should not invest in actual housing, but go beyond the typical middle-ground retail and really try to establish this site as a place to shop, visit, etc..for folks visiting McCormick Place, Chinatown or residents of the South Loop.
We've spoken to numerous people about housing in the neighborhood and it's obvious that their is way to much supply (however hopefully this is just a result of the lagging economy). The fact that this large piece of land is on a high profile road in between McCormick Place and Chinatown seems to support the idea stated above. The question is...what to do with the land?
Chances are that there will also be a new CTA stop at State and Cermak within the next 5 or 10 years just adding to the foot traffic in the area.
For more background and an update on the current demolition plans at the Ickes Homes (and other public housing) here is a good article from April 4th in the Sun Times.
(Hat Tip: SMR!)