| The intersection of Chicago Avenue and Lake Street has historically played an important role in the Lake Street Midtown Corridor. Anchored by the Sears Building since its construction in the 1920’s, commercial activity at this hub was consistently strong for decades, providing employment and attracting shoppers from well beyond the local neighborhood area.
In keeping with this rich history, the Great Lake Center, an exciting adaptive re-use of the Sears Building and surrounding properties, promises to bring new vitality to the area. The proposed mix of uses will include commercial, entertainment and office space supported by a regional transit hub, structured and surface parking facilities and direct connections to the Greenway trail. It is projected that 5,000 people will work at the Great Lake Center.
Chicago Avenue and Lake Street are both scheduled for reconstruction, setting the stage for improving the public realm with widened sidewalks, ample space for street trees and other plantings, and more gracious pedestrian and bicycle amenities. Connections to the Greenway will be accomplished via ramps, stairways, transit stations, all integrated with Greenway level amenities. These amenities related to transit and trail use could include coffee shop, bike repair shop or other service or convenience businesses.
Additional infill development can be anticipated in the area as it is re-energized by planned public and private initiatives. Improved access and connections to existing neighborhood parks will further support reinvestment at this node. For example, Powderhorn Park recently underwent extensive site and building improvements, solidifying its role as a premier neighborhood gathering place. | | |
