T
he Chicago Department of Aviation has secured a significant lease at US Cellular Plaza, a key step in the city's multi-billion-dollar transformation of O'Hare International Airport. The department will occupy nearly 100,000 square feet across five floors of the 11-story building at 8420 West Bryn Mawr Avenue. This major deal is a boost for FCA Partners, the Charlotte-based property owner that recently invested $15 million in upgrades to the complex.

    The lease will consolidate operations for hundreds of workers involved in the $8.5 billion O'Hare 21 project, which aims to expand airport capacity and upgrade infrastructure. The office space will replace existing facilities at the Aviation Administration Building, owned by the City of Chicago. The O'Hare submarket has remained relatively resilient despite challenges in the office market, with a 25% vacancy rate compared to the suburban average of 31.4%.

    The lease was initially approved for 79,000 square feet but was increased to 99,400 square feet due to updated workforce projections. The Chicago City Council approved the deal in September. As O'Hare 21 progresses, the CDA is preparing to fulfill growing obligations under its agreements with partner airlines.

    Other recent activity in the O'Hare submarket includes plans by Glenstar and Wayzata Investment Partners to upgrade Presidents Plaza office complex, which will feature modernized suites, improved common areas, and amenities like open-ceiling offices and a golf simulator. Additionally, investors Parag Patel and Kevin Patel have acquired a 200-room Marriott Courtyard near O'Hare and plan to invest up to $5 million in renovations.