Feds decided to preserve two Chicago buildings; Enter Quintin Primo

A pair of century-old skyscrapers in Chicago’s Loop may be saved from the wrecking ball, as local developer and downtown investor has a plan to redevelop the historic structures on State Street. 

Quintin Primo, the founder and executive chairman of Capri Investment Group, says he plans to answer the federal government’s upcoming request for proposals for the 16-story Century Building at 202 South State Street and the 22-story Consumers Building at 220 South State Street, the Chicago Sun Times reported.  

The General Services Administration, which manages federal properties, had planned to tear down the vacant buildings due to risks posed by their proximity to the Dirksen Federal Building. However, after receiving strong opposition from preservationists and local business leaders who see the buildings as crucial to the Loop’s historic retail area, the GSA reconsidered its approach.

Congress had allocated $52 million for the building’s demolition. If they are preserved, the GSA plans to retain ownership of the buildings, and it is outlining strict conditions on redevelopment proposals. 

While some preservationists suggest converting the buildings into archives for nonprofits and religious groups, Primo envisions a broader scope, proposing educational spaces and ground-floor retail that fits with State Street’s commercial atmosphere.

His plans include leveraging historic preservation tax credits and government subsidies to fund the potential renovation, which could cost more than $100 million. Primo’s confidence stems from his success with similar projects, including the ongoing transformation of the James R. Thompson Center into Google’s future Chicago headquarters.

The GSA plans to invite proposals in September, and it will leave public comment on the preservation decision open until Sept. 3. Whether the buildings are ultimately preserved or demolished will depend on finding a proposal that addresses security concerns while reviving these historic landmarks.

Former Chief Judge Rebecca Pallmeyer strongly supported demolition due to security risks, and current Chief Judge Virginia Kendall shares this concern. The court remains focused on safety and could advocate for demolition again if no suitable redevelopment plan meets federal standards.

— Andrew Terrell

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