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proposed underground industrial storage facility on Chicago's Southeast Side has sparked a heated debate between developers and environmental activists. The Invert, backed by the Ozinga family, aims to create a massive storage complex beneath the contaminated former Acme Steel Coke Plant, generating thousands of jobs while minimizing environmental impact. However, residents are skeptical due to decades of industrial pollution in their neighborhood.

    Developers argue that The Invert will not worsen air pollution and will actually improve public health by cleaning up the site. But activists view it as another burden on an already heavily polluted community. Gina Ramírez of the National Resources Defense Council expressed concerns about the project's true impact, saying "nobody wants an underground mine in their neighborhood." The Southeast Side has high levels of lead toxicity and respiratory illnesses due to a century of industrial activity.

    Supporters see The Invert as a way to bring economic activity to the area, but a recent ruling categorized the excavation as "mining," which is banned in Chicago. Despite this, developers remain committed to finding a legal pathway forward with city officials.