The iconic Chicago Blackhawks have recently been granted approval for the ambitious $65 million expansion of their practice facility, Fifth Third Arena. This move constitutes the first major step towards further development in the Near West Side area, as team and city officials are eyeing the possibility of transforming empty spaces and parking lots into offices, restaurants, homes, or hotels.
Jaime Faulkner, Hawks president of business operations, made it clear that the immediate priority is the development of the Fifth Third Arena. According to the Chicago Tribune, the expansion will introduce two new ice-skating rinks to the arena, complemented by 200 parking spaces, locker rooms, food and beverage facilities, multipurpose rooms, a partial green roof, bicycle parking, and electric vehicle charging stations.
As reported by NBC Sports, the Blackhawks are aiming to mold the Fifth Third Arena into a "hub for Midwest hockey," leveraging it for youth and amateur hockey clubs, figure skating programs, and even national and international competitions. The ultimate goal is the promotion of a grand vision of a multi-faceted community development in the area. The project is set to begin in early 2024, with a grand opening tentatively scheduled for 2026.
Alderman Walter Burnett Jr., 27th Ward, mentioned that the Blackhawks have plans for further development in the area, but they are still pending discussion with the community. The franchise is currently focusing on the expansion of the rink, which will allow them to upgrade their facilities and offer more skating surfaces for both players and residents. With an increased number of venues, the Blackhawks are also aiming to attract local and national skating tournaments to the area.
Another interesting aspect of this expansion project is the plan to eventually convert the rest of the 7-acre property acquired from the Rush University Medical Center into mixed-use space featuring residential, hotel, and retail components. Furthermore, in order to facilitate the transportation needs of the community, a CTA Green Line station is currently under construction and slated to open next year.
According to Alderman Burnett, the changing landscape of the area and the increasing demand for alternative transport options have rendered traditional parking lots somewhat obsolete. He envisions a thriving community in the area, fueled by the city's various institutions, that will attract a younger generation eager for a well-rounded urban experience.
Danny Wirtz, the Blackhawks Chairman and CEO, shares a similar mindset and is actively involved in neighborhood initiatives. He sees the bigger picture for the area and seeks to create a community around it, blending the existing businesses and institutions with these new, developing spaces.
With the expansion of Fifth Third Arena serving as a catalyst for change, the Near West Side's transformation has the potential to redefine the area as a thriving hub for generations to come.
