Related Midwest has unveiled plans for its quantum computing campus on Chicago’s Far South Side.
The firm plans to develop up to 59.3 million square feet of commercial space across 440-acres at 8080 South DuSable Lake Shore Drive, the site of the former U.S. Steel South Works plant, Crain’s reported. The project’s scale would eclipse the combined footprints of other developments such as Lincoln Yards, The 78 and the United Center area.
The first phase would include a 458,000-square-foot quantum computing facility, part of the larger state-funded Illinois Quantum & Microelectronics Park.
Palo Alto-based startup PsiQuantum is set to anchor the development with a $1 billion investment. The company aims to build the world’s largest quantum computer, an endeavor that could bring hundreds of jobs to the area and position Chicago as a hub for quantum research.
Related Midwest’s acquisition of the site from U.S. Steel is still pending, but its zoning application marks a significant step forward. Unlike previous plans for the site, which were bogged down by environmental concerns, Related’s vision is solely focused on commercial and industrial uses with no residential component.
Past proposals, such as McCaffery Interests’ bid to build over 13,000 homes, were halted due to soil contamination.
The project received a property tax subsidy from the Cook County Board of Commissioners — a critical component in making the quantum research campus financially viable and attractive to investors — that reduces property taxes from 25 percent to 10 percent for the next 30 years, pending City Council approval.
The development is poised to impact the neighboring South Chicago community, once home to thousands of steel mill workers. As construction plans move forward, Related Midwest has been encouraged to sign a community benefits agreement, ensuring local residents benefit from the project through job opportunities and access to public amenities.
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If approved, construction on the quantum campus could begin as early as next year, with completion expected by 2026.
In addition to its massive South Works project, Related Midwest is working on a 72-story apartment tower on the former Chicago Spire site and a 300,000-square-foot industrial complex in North Lawndale. It is also partnering with the Chicago White Sox to develop a new baseball stadium at The 78.
— Andrew Terrell