T
he Wirtz and Reinsdorf families, owners of the Chicago Bulls and Blackhawks, are embarking on a $7 billion transformation of the neighborhood surrounding their jointly owned United Center. The 1901 Project aims to reshape the Near West Side over two decades, with the first phase set to begin this spring.

    A $400 million initial phase will include a 6,000-seat music hall adjacent to the arena's southwest corner, scheduled for completion by 2028. Two parking garages are also planned: one featuring a rooftop park and retail space, and another hosting a 233-room hotel. Future phases will introduce residential and retail spaces north of the arena, as well as commercial developments linked to a proposed new CTA Pink Line station.

    The project envisions nearly 9,500 residential units, over 1,300 hotel rooms, and extensive open areas. The city has extended the Central West tax-increment financing district to fund the proposed CTA station, emphasizing public transit integration. City officials have expressed strong support for the plan, which is set to be reviewed by the Plan Commission this week.