Height: 950ft, 750ft, 625ft
Floor count: 80, 60, 50
Location: Wolf Point (confluence of South, North, and Main Branches of the Chicago River)
Neighborhood: River North
Architect: Pelli Clarke Pelli; bKL Architecture
Developer: Hines Interests LP
Website: Wolf Point Chicago (wolfpointchicago.com/)

http://img843.imageshack.us/img843/2597/57467004.jpg
http://img94.imageshack.us/img94/2543/proposedwolfpoint1a.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/94/proposedwolfpoint1a.jpg/)
http://img846.imageshack.us/img846/6541/wp4e.jpg
http://img402.imageshack.us/img402/6323/wp3j.jpg
http://img23.imageshack.us/img23/9117/wp2yv.jpg

View from Wolf Point (taken by i_am_hydrogen)
http://img406.imageshack.us/img406/848/wpviewcurbed.jpg

I cant wait for a render. Is 89 stories 1000 feet?

Great news...hopefully this isnt just a pipe dream

- edit

Does anyone think that the 89 story one may be around 1100-1200 (roof height) hopefully?

cant wait for renderings

If it turns out to be taller than Trump Tower Chicago, the Donald will fume that his tower is being sandwiched by two taller towers on the same side of river. :lol:

cant wait for renderingssecond this. Its hard to imagine in 10 years our skyline will be dramatically different and 10x better.

Does anyone think that the 89 story one may be around 1100-1200 (roof height) hopefully?

Well, remember, Waterview Tower is 89-stories, and it's 1,047'

I wouldn't be surprised at 1,100 with any sort of prominant top, even if hotel/residential.

Yea, I just have a gut feeling that this will have a spire of some kind.

I am glad Hines is in on the project. With 200 N. Riverside they have shown to be very cognizant of integrating and beautfiying public space along the river. Hopefully they match and maybe even improve on the Riverside concept like they between 300 N.LaSalle/Riverside.

http://www.suntimes.com/business/490609,31wolf.article

Kennedys eye Wolf Point plans

July 31, 2007
BY DAVID ROEDER Staff Reporter

The Kennedy family and two development firms, working with renowned architect Cesar Pelli, are crafting a plan to turn downtown’s Wolf Point into a residential, hotel and office complex.

The four-acre site along the Chicago River is just west of the Merchandise Mart.

.......The design focal point would be an 89-story building, similar in height to the Trump Tower project going up further east along the river.In picking Pelli for the deal, the partners evidently bypassed the Chicago firm Skidmore Owings & Merrill LLP, which has done extensive work on earlier versions of the site’s development.

with Wolf Point jutting southward, iif built, would such a tall structues block anything on the west bank and become to the main branch of the river what in essence the Board of Trade is to LaSalle Street?

If it turns out to be taller than Trump Tower Chicago, the Donald will fume that his tower is being sandwiched by two taller towers on the same side of river. :lol:


are you suggesting many bad hair days ahead?

can someone tell me wherewolf point is.

can someone tell me wherewolf point is.it is the point where the Chicago River branches off to the north and south, from the main branch.

The nearest streets would be near Kinzie and Franklin. (correct me if I'm wrong)

It is actually where the "town" of Chicago started in the days of Fort Dearborn.

Somebody please post it on Google Earth, or a map. Some would say its the center of the city.

can someone tell me wherewolf point is.

Posted by Museumparktom Originally of the Skyscraperpage Thread

http://i97.photobucket.com/albums/l221/Mansmith_2006/WolfPoint.jpg

Wolf Point is 380 ft deep x 560 ft wide. Does that seem like a big enough foot print for these three buildings?

with Wolf Point jutting southward, iif built, would such a tall structues block anything on the west bank and become to the main branch of the river what in essence the Board of Trade is to LaSalle Street?

yes, for sure. this bulding will block River Bend 100% to the south (river view) I would be very pissed if I lived there.

but wow. 89 stories on that plot of land. amazing. can someone find the article and post it?

nevermind



(Crain’s) – A joint venture including the Kennedy family and a Texas developer aims to transform a long-vacant riverside property just west of the Merchandise Mart into a massive hotel, residential and office project anchored by an 89-story skyscraper.


continued...

http://chicagobusiness.com/cgi-bin/news.pl?id=25853&seenIt=1

but lets not get too excited....this is the last sentence of the article.....

"But with planning in the preliminary stages, it's likely that construction wouldn't start for a few years, when market conditions could be different."

still cool idea though.

I'm just so grateful that an eyesore of a parking lot will finally bite the dust.

However, I'm slightly disappointed about the safe choice of architect.

Wolf Point might get 3-building complex
DEVELOPMENT | Hotel, offices, residential for downtown site

July 31, 2007
BY DAVID ROEDER droeder@suntimes.com
The Kennedy family and two development firms, working with renowned architect Cesar Pelli, are crafting a plan to turn downtown's Wolf Point into a residential, hotel and office complex.



http://www.suntimes.com/business/490435,CST-FIN-wolf31.article

Good for Chicago, it keep growing up.

The skyline will be even better by 2010. Chicago will be number one for a long time.

I can't wait to see it in a few years

^^ hell yea. you are so right. but this particular project might be longer then 2010. I would say construction might start around that time. for some reason, any decisions on wolf point seem to drag.

it is the point where the Chicago River branches off to the north and south, from the main branch.

The nearest streets would be near Kinzie and Franklin. (correct me if I'm wrong)

It is actually where the "town" of Chicago started in the days of Fort Dearborn.

Somebody please post it on Google Earth, or a map. Some would say its the center of the city.

err, Fort Dearborn (and consequently early Chicago) was near the mouth of the river, not at wolf point.

err, Fort Dearborn (and consequently early Chicago) was near the mouth of the river, not at wolf point.actually, they were considered 2 different things. Fort Dearborn was referred to as that, and the "town" was at Wolf Point. its just technical. :)

for some reason, any decisions on wolf point seem to drag.

"Patient capital." When your fabulously wealthy family has owned the land for 62 years and already earns income off it, what's another three?

A cluster of towers, possibly phased, is less risky than one big one, which is how I remember the old proposal.

Given Hines track record lately with office towers in Chicago, the office portion of this project could very well be the first one out of the gate.

All in all great news. I hope these buildings are positioned so they completely block the apparrel center view from the South Branch of the river.

Does this mean the end of the Holiday Inn / Sun Times building? One of the articles says that there is 4 acres of land. Obviously the parking garage would have to go. What's left is a small area for 3 high rises including setbacks from each other. Also, I would assume that a public plaza along the river and generous building setback would be required.

Does this mean the end of the Holiday Inn / Sun Times building? One of the articles says that there is 4 acres of land. Obviously the parking garage would have to go. What's left is a small area for 3 high rises including setbacks from each other. Also, I would assume that a public plaza along the river and generous building setback would be required.I believe that is the law now, not sure.

The view from the site:

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1044/980245624_51f1107295.jpg

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1219/979387163_b72b2cfac3.jpg

*Wish that the roof is at least taller than the 80 stories Aon at 1136'*

Prime location!

Given the office component, I wouldn't be surprised to see 14 foot ceilings.

actually, they were considered 2 different things. Fort Dearborn was referred to as that, and the "town" was at Wolf Point. its just technical. :)

While Chicago's acknowledged 1st settler duSable's home was on the north river bank near the fort site, it was a bit isolated. Mark Beaubien's tavern was very near Wolf Point and was a sort of village commercial and social center for regional fur trappers and others before there really was a much of a permanent village (1830-34). So, you could say this was the very first center of town - - very important historically. I hope this good news brings a development that does justice to the site!

While Chicago's acknowledged 1st settler duSable's home was on the north river bank near the fort site, it was a bit isolated. Mark Beaubien's tavern was very near Wolf Point and was a sort of village commercial and social center for regional fur trappers and others before there really was a much of a permanent village (1830-34). So, you could say this was the very first center of town - - very important historically. I hope this good news brings a development that does justice to the site!

with a site this prominent, it would be a crime not to!!

That whole area of the river is finally coming together.

^^ As if the architectural cruises weren't already spectacular. Just imagine 7 years from now :uh:

That whole area of the river is finally coming together.

now is the time to excelerate on the ground what is happening in the air. the river walk simply must step up the pace. Not only will it enahance this extraordianary urban corridor, it will become an asset unto itself for both Chicagoans and tourists who will be able to stroll in this special, special setting.

If we do it right, there will come a time, not too far off, when the times Americans think of the "river walk", they will think Chicago, not San Antonio.

now is the time to excelerate on the ground what is happening in the air. the river walk simply must step up the pace. Not only will it enahance this extraordianary urban corridor, it will become an asset unto itself for both Chicagoans and tourists who will be able to stroll in this special, special setting.

If we do it right, there will come a time, not too far off, when the times Americans think of the "river walk", they will think Chicago, not San Antonio.It will happen. Daley is all for it. And I live on the river, so believe me, I want it to happen more than anyone. I think it will. I think it will be done before 2016.

It will happen. Daley is all for it. And I live on the river, so believe me, I want it to happen more than anyone. I think it will. I think it will be done before 2016.

It will certainly be done before the Olympics, and I wouldn't be surprised if another proposal for a Spire-esque supertall (perhaps in the same height range) goes to U/C well before 2016.

Look to "Closing the Gate of the Chicago River". IOW: Watch LSE across the river from the Spire.

Perhaps an indication of what we'll get?

Pelli's design for a skyscraper in SF, also with Hines
http://img363.imageshack.us/img363/7160/aeriallorezvk7.jpg

is this the same designer as the new wing for the art museum.

I think the Modern Wing at the Art Institute is being designed by Renzo Piano.

I cant wait for a render. Is 89 stories 1000 feet?

wonderful, maybe a new supertall for Chicago. want to see still more :)

I wish that Pelli would get off his oblong obelisk kick. It seems like he's run out of ideas.

Hmm... what would be cool is if they took the SF proposal and made it 3-sided.

Perhaps an indication of what we'll get?

Pelli's design for a skyscraper in SF, also with Hines
http://img363.imageshack.us/img363/7160/aeriallorezvk7.jpg

Wow...is that the way the replacement for the transbay terminal is supposed to look below the tower? That roof garden is fantastic! I know the structure is supposed to host the CalTrain terminal and I believe the light rail line that will extend north to Chinatown, as well as its continued role as the terminal for East Bay busses.

Incredibly cool and perhaps the best intermodal in the nation.

edsg, have you seen the other two in the design competition one by SOM and the other by Rogers? All three are amazing but I think the one by SOM is the most impressive and even better then the Pelli.

I wish that Pelli would get off his oblong obelisk kick. It seems like he's run out of ideas.


I dont know.

I think I would take the SF plan or the Hong Kong One financial type obelisk if we could get a roof hight around 1400 ft sans spire.


Location Hong Kong

Constructed 2003

Height
Antenna/Spire 415.8 m (1,364 ft.)
Roof 406.9 m (1,335 ft.)
Top floor 401.9 m (1,319 ft.)
Floor count 88
Architect César Pelli



http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/4/43/Ifc2.jpg

^^ I'd rather have something original as that design has already seen its day, IMO. Plus, we already have 181 W. Madison. I hope it's something fresh and new. This location deserves a top notch design.

^ This location deserves the modern rendition of tribune tower. Something so magnificent that it's awe-inspiring. Obviously, it would be much taller and not be made out of stone( i wish), but it needs to have that kind of impact on such a grand site that can be seen from so many different vantage points. Back when the tribune tower was built, it was a huge deal with its intricate design and attention to detail- this needs to be the taller, more modern version of that type of impact.

^ This location deserves the modern rendition of tribune tower. Something so magnificent that it's awe-inspiring. Obviously, it would be much taller and not be made out of stone( i wish), but it needs to have that kind of impact on such a grand site that can be seen from so many different vantage points. Back when the tribune tower was built, it was a huge deal with its intricate design and attention to detail- this needs to be the taller, more modern version of that type of impact.

I agree. Whatever they build must be magnificent. I would really have liked to see a scaled down version of the Illinois built here... perhaps at 3000 ft. Or, at least something tall enough and majestic enough that it's beauty can be enjoyed from all vantage points on the skyline. Something that knocks the wind out of people when they look at it.

If their mind is already set on 89 floors and 3 separate buildings, my dream will remain what it is.... a daydream.

Hmm... what would be cool is if they took the SF proposal and made it 3-sided.

Thats funny, I was thinking the exact same thing when I saw that picture.

August 17, 2007

http://img145.imageshack.us/img145/4552/dsc0786gl7.jpg

In the photo, dated August 17, how much of the actual site is visable??
becouse what i'm seeing is a very small site for three towers, and i must agree, this site must have a building that is nothing short of spactacular, and again i agree, Pelli must start from scratch on this one, and not revise completed works.

In the photo, dated August 17, how much of the actual site is visable??
becouse what i'm seeing is a very small site for three towers, and i must agree, this site must have a building that is nothing short of spactacular, and again i agree, Pelli must start from scratch on this one, and not revise completed works.

You're looking at a little more than a 1/3 of the site.

Oh, the poor residents of Riverbend Condos! I bet they thought they'd have those views forever. Well, regardless of what the tower looks like, I have to imagine the city will push the whole "river-walk" concept for it. Imagine being able to walk from Trump to this thing, the whole time along the river!!! Kick-ass!!!

Here's my FrankenPhoto of the site taken from the top of the steps leading down to the parking lot from the entrance to hotel. It's really not a big site when you consider what's being proposed but I'll wait to see an actual proposal first. (almost) anything that hides the Apparel Mart/Sun Times building gets my vote!



http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1310/1262179927_4eb90edff1_b.jpg

any updates?

^^ if they were to give an award out for the "worst place in the nation to have a parking lot", I think we have a winner.

You gotta feel that having a parking lot in that location is basically a crime.

I do wonder how much open land will be kept to keep the incredible sight lines of Wolf Point open. Obviously the point itself will be parkland/terrace.

This location needs a spectacular interplay between land and water...perhaps something unusual for the Chicago River...a step down type of set up that would actually take a pedestrian to water level.

^^ if they were to give an award out for the "worst place in the nation to have a parking lot", I think we have a winner.

You gotta feel that having a parking lot in that location is basically a crime.

Yes and no. Having a parking lot on the property for this amount of time preserved the land for this future development

Yes and no. Having a parking lot on the property for this amount of time preserved the land for this future development

very good point!!!

I do wonder how much open land will be kept to keep the incredible sight lines of Wolf Point open. Obviously the point itself will be parkland/terrace.

This location needs a spectacular interplay between land and water...perhaps something unusual for the Chicago River...a step down type of set up that would actually take a pedestrian to water level.

Maybe they should build a Ganges-like staircase right into the river and Chicagoans could baptise themselves with the holy water of the mighty Chicago River....

if you don't want to discuss the wolf point proposal, please don't post in this thread.

^^ :applause:

When do we find get to see some pictures of these buildings?

When do we find get to see some pictures of these buildings?

whenever they are released to the public, could be 3 weeks, 3 months, 3 years, no one really knows except those on the project development team.

northsider posted this in his own thread. perfect view of wolfs point

http://i12.************/6bvhput.jpg

^^ not very big for 3 tall ass buildings

^^ it's do-able; the towers could potentially be thin but I guess we'll just have to wait and see until the renderings come out.

Everytime the SUN-Times find a home they get booted.:lol:

Everytime the SUN-Times find a home they get booted.:lol:

Dude, I don't think they're thinking about tearing the Holiday Inn.

^ correct. the apparel center (holiday inn/sun-times building) is not slated to be demolished as a part of this proposal. the new buildings in this project would merely help to block the apparel center, not replace it.

^ correct. the apparel center (holiday inn/sun-times building) is not slated to be demolished as a part of this proposal. the new buildings in this project would merely help to block the apparel center, not replace it.

has there been any mention of possibly retrofitting the exterior of the Apparel Mart? Such medicority doesn't seem to belong with what will no doubt be high class architecture.

Any proposal with 2 or 3 towers will block the vantage of the Apparel Center simply because of the site geometry. You'll only be able to see a sliver of it from Wacker, between the new buildings and the Mart.

Way I see it, the Apparel Center is fine, so long as nobody sees it.

Any proposal with 2 or 3 towers will block the vantage of the Apparel Center simply because of the site geometry. You'll only be able to see a sliver of it from Wacker, between the new buildings and the Mart.

Way I see it, the Apparel Center is fine, so long as nobody sees it.

please provide the giant size blanket to drape over it. it is a monstrosity. if you ever take the architectural boat tour, they go to great lengths to differentiate the age of looking out at the Chicago River as a sewer in your back yard and the age of making the riverfront a showcase for architecutre. Apparel/Holiday Inn is clearly a part of the earlier era.

Apparel/Holiday Inn is clearly a part of the earlier era.
along with the atrocious east bank club which is an even bigger crime against architecture in my opinion.

along with the atrocious east bank club which is an even bigger crime against architecture in my opinion.

you need to resurrect ronnie reagan so he can tell da mayor: "Mr. Daley, tear down this wall!"

:lol: I've blocked east bank club from my mind. Thanks for making me remember it again.

along with the atrocious east bank club which is an even bigger crime against architecture in my opinion.

I would think that one day that actually has a good shot of getting torn down though.

I would think that one day that actually has a good shot of getting torn down though.

doesn't it fill an enormous need that wouldn't be met with its destruction?

when will renderings be released? :)

Seeing how the SOM proposal for the SF Transbay terminal didn't win, wouldn't it be great if we could have that beauty at Wolf point? I know it won't happen but I really really wish that somehow it could.

several, if not all, buildings being built have parking garages. not exactly sure how much public parking is available though. I would assume there has to be.

This parking discussion is off topic - that being said there are 9000 parking spaces in the Grant Park Garages. So there no need to bemoan the loss of another surface lot.

With this developement and the proposed Woldorf Astoria across from River East there won't be any parking left downtown.

With this developement and the proposed Woldorf Astoria across from River East there won't be any parking left downtown.

several, if not all, buildings being built have parking garages. not exactly sure how much public parking is available though. I would assume there has to be.

With this developement and the proposed Woldorf Astoria across from River East there won't be any parking left downtown.
Oh the humanity! Make it stop!!! Why can't we have something like Golf Road in downtown!? WE NEED MORE PARKING! STOP BUILDING BUILDINGS!!!

Jeezus!!!

Oh the humanity! Make it stop!!! Why can't we have something like Golf Road in downtown!? WE NEED MORE PARKING! STOP BUILDING BUILDINGS!!!

Jeezus!!!

Thanks you!!!!!!!!

With this developement and the proposed Woldorf Astoria across from River East there won't be any parking left downtown.this is your first post on a skyscraper forum??? I think you stumbled into the wrong place. :lol:

Is this one big tease or are they going to actually show some designs or models?

I read that the Kennedys own this lot and that they are willing to sit on it forever until the market is good enough to build.

I read that the Kennedys own this lot and that they are willing to sit on it forever until the market is good enough to build.

Very old news. They use to own the Merchandise Mart and sold it to Vorando Realty Trust in 1998. The Kennedy's back then said they were going to hold on to it and were not in a rush to develop it.

Early this year word was they are ready to develop it. And that is how we got this thread......

Everytime the SUN-Times find a home they get booted.:lol:


SunTimes will be moving? Share source please. Thanks.

SunTimes will be moving? Share source please. Thanks.


The Suntimes isn't moving anywhere. No one is tearing down the Suntimes building.

Very old news. They use to own the Merchandise Mart and sold it to Vorando Realty Trust in 1998. The Kennedy's back then said they were going to hold on to it and were not in a rush to develop it.

Early this year word was they are ready to develop it. And that is how we got this thread......


Which they control!

updates? renderings?

updates? renderings?

No and no. If that info was available, it would have been posted. It's not really moving forward at this time.

The Suntimes isn't moving anywhere. No one is tearing down the Suntimes building.

I'll do it....give me a sledgehammer.

May 16, 2008

http://img502.imageshack.us/img502/4329/dsc0026oc7.jpg

No news, just a current picture of Wolf Point.

I know it appears that it won't be, but I hope this thing will be taller and better than trump, given the site. This is the best site imaginable to build a legendary skyscraper- imo of course. Great shot, Retrograde, BTW.

May 16, 2008

http://img502.imageshack.us/img502/4329/dsc0026oc7.jpg

No news, just a current picture of Wolf Point.

I am thinkin those folks in Riverbend (http://www.chicagoarchitecture.info/Building/1077/Riverbend_Condominiums.php) having paid a fortune for their amazing river views aren't going to be so happy to see this happen... What a sucky way to loose property value.

^^

Hey, if you move into such a unit in such a densely developed area and it overlooks a parking lot, EXPECT that someday, that parking lot is going to become a nice tall building.

Oh well....

:lol:

Mike

great location for such a tall tower i think, can't wait to hear some news :)

3 towers, including one with 89 storey, on this site? they will have to be very thin. I fear, it's going to look overdeveloped and ridiculous in front of the apparel center.

3 towers, including one with 89 storey, on this site? they will have to be very thin. I fear, it's going to look overdeveloped and ridiculous in front of the apparel center.
There's quite a bit of land there. Here's a shot from a different vantage point taken in April.

http://img261.imageshack.us/img261/8451/wolfpointer6.jpg

From what I heard on the CAF's river cruise, they are waiting for the Trump tower to hit its max height so they can build something bigger here.

^^ Hmm, well I would still like to see some designs.

why would they wait till it is done to build bigger? They already know how tall it is going to be.

That picture makes the parking lot look good! :-p But what a waste of valuable land... I think any building there would be an improvement...it doesn't have to be ridiculously tall.

No... You're correct that it's a valuable waste of land. But, it's location demands a stunning project.

That picture makes the parking lot look good! :-p But what a waste of valuable land... I think any building there would be an improvement...it doesn't have to be ridiculously tall.

Yes it does....

No... You're correct that it's a valuable waste of land. But, it's location demands a stunning project.

Exactly.

Personally, I'd love to see and architectural competition for that sight. I know that Peilli is allegedly designing the towers, but I'd like to have more planning and something more stunning.

I'd like 2-towers instead of 3 to allow for more open space and to get much taller structures.

I definitely think the developer needs to take their time on this site and come up with something exceptional here. Another component I would like to see added is some sort of footbridge stretching west across the north branch.

Nothing bulky. Something thin and twisting like a Calatrava-style bridge would be an interesting contrast to the freight rail just north of the site. The land west of the river is rather disjointed due to all of the rail running through it, but development is going up over there as well. The area is just too isolated from downtown right now. It would be nice to link that up a bit better.

No... You're correct that it's a valuable waste of land. But, it's location demands a stunning project.

I'm sure I'm in the minority here, but I respectfully disagree. Personally I think the location demands a stunning park. This special location that give the Chicago River its famous "Y" is a civic treasure. Given a choice, I'd put a park in place that measures up to the stature of the location and would be a center point along an extended river walk. Such a park would have some wonderful company in its setting, places that also enhance the water in front and the skyline behind it: Pittsubrgh's Golden Triangle and Manhattan's Battery Park.

Never really thought of how it could integrate into the riverwalk. Interesting. OK then, just one (really tall, spectacularly designed) tower, with plenty of public park on the east and south sides. Just as long as it helps to hide the hideous Sun-Times building.

Never really thought of how it could integrate into the riverwalk. Interesting. OK then, just one (really tall, spectacularly designed) tower, with plenty of public park on the east and south sides. Just as long as it helps to hide the hideous Sun-Times building.I'm all for that. :cheers:

Never really thought of how it could integrate into the riverwalk. Interesting. OK then, just one (really tall, spectacularly designed) tower, with plenty of public park on the east and south sides. Just as long as it helps to hide the hideous Sun-Times building.


good one, Flub; that's one of those cases where you can have your cake and eat it. Height saves you room on the ground and gives you a magnificent backdrop.

Wolf Point is an iconic site for Chicago, not only because of its location where the three branches meet and the views that make that site so enticing, but due to its role in the early history of Chicago. It is a shame that the city did not have access to the waterfront portion of this real estate ages ago.

There is something that is very special that we could get from a park at Wolf Point that Chicago oddly does not have but other cities do: a small park of importance in the core of the city. In most cases (i.e. NY's Union Sq, SF's Union Sq, Boston Commons, etc.), it really is a space surrounded by the city's towers. In other cases, like I mentioned above, it is related to the adjoining waters as in Pgh's Golden Triangle and NY's Battery Park.

Chicago has no truly special small parks as such (and obviously I must be including Millennium Park as part of Grant Park in my argument). Such a park can be a gem in how it utilizes small space for great success and provides easy access to the high rises that surround it.

^^ edge, I completely agree with you, but I think there would be a problem with accessability. Unless a bridge or 2 is built connecting that spot with the loop and west side, I don't think it would work (although the Franklin bridge is there). The river walk is also key. I'd love to see some kind of design that pays respect to the history of that spot.

It was on that spot our city was founded (in the Fort Dearborn days). I say bring back the Sauganash Hotel!

good one, Flub; that's one of those cases where you can have your cake and eat it. Height saves you room on the ground and gives you a magnificent backdrop.

Wolf Point is an iconic site for Chicago, not only because of its location where the three branches meet and the views that make that site so enticing, but due to its role in the early history of Chicago. It is a shame that the city did not have access to the waterfront portion of this real estate ages ago.

There is something that is very special that we could get from a park at Wolf Point that Chicago oddly does not have but other cities do: a small park of importance in the core of the city. In most cases (i.e. NY's Union Sq, SF's Union Sq, Boston Commons, etc.), it really is a space surrounded by the city's towers. In other cases, like I mentioned above, it is related to the adjoining waters as in Pgh's Golden Triangle and NY's Battery Park.

Chicago has no truly special small parks as such (and obviously I must be including Millennium Park as part of Grant Park in my argument). Such a park can be a gem in how it utilizes small space for great success and provides easy access to the high rises that surround it.
Tower plus park sounds like a winner. BTW does the park across from the Newberry Library qualify or is it too removed?

BTW does the park across from the Newberry Library qualify or is it too removed?From someone who lives in the area, I'd say its a good example, but a little far off than what I think edgs is talking about. I think its an excellent location to draw residents of the downtown area. We know we'll at least get some type of park/public space. that is a law on the river now correct?

Tower plus park sounds like a winner. BTW does the park across from the Newberry Library qualify or is it too removed?

oh, I thought about it (and Water Tower Sq, too), but as nice as both are, they don't have blockbuster written all over them. Water Tower is too small and Newberry is too residential.

cbotnyse, I would think that the Franklin-Orleans bridge would work well for Loop access.

I definitely think the developer needs to take their time on this site and come up with something exceptional here. Another component I would like to see added is some sort of footbridge stretching west across the north branch.

Nothing bulky. Something thin and twisting like a Calatrava-style bridge would be an interesting contrast to the freight rail just north of the site. The land west of the river is rather disjointed due to all of the rail running through it, but development is going up over there as well. The area is just too isolated from downtown right now. It would be nice to link that up a bit better.

there's no place to connect it to tje other side. it would have to do diagonally southwest-northeast. you have Fulton House and Riverbend directly across the way. Also, it would have to have the same clearance as all the other bridges to allow clearance of barges, commercial and private boats.

Just have them restore/reactivate the railroad bridge utilizing light rail as well as a pedestrain corssing. That bridge would also have to be raised because of it's lack of clearance.

I'm sure I'm in the minority here, but I respectfully disagree. Personally I think the location demands a stunning park. This special location that give the Chicago River its famous "Y" is a civic treasure. Given a choice, I'd put a park in place that measures up to the stature of the location and would be a center point along an extended river walk. Such a park would have some wonderful company in its setting, places that also enhance the water in front and the skyline behind it: Pittsubrgh's Golden Triangle and Manhattan's Battery Park.

You're right.

You're in the minority.

I'd only go along with a park covering the entire site if the Apparel Mart were demolished and a mega-tall tower were built in its place.

there's no place to connect it to tje other side. it would have to do diagonally southwest-northeast. you have Fulton House and Riverbend directly across the way. Also, it would have to have the same clearance as all the other bridges to allow clearance of barges, commercial and private boats.

Just have them restore/reactivate the railroad bridge utilizing light rail as well as a pedestrain corssing. That bridge would also have to be raised because of it's lack of clearance.

I disagree here. There are two options for pedestrian bridges:

1) extend w. mart drive west over the river on the north side of the Wolf Pt. site
2) run a bridge diagonally southwest from the point.

The reason I cited Calatrava was that he is known for two things when it comes to bridges. The first being thin, graceful curving lines that don't obstruct views of the skyline. The second is his incredible appreciation for bridges including complex physics, cantilevered sections, etc. Realistically, either of those two routes would work, and someone could easily engineer a boat-friendly solution. This could include a center span that actually restracts toward land on either side. It could also include a two spans that meet in the middle with the ability to both turn 90 degrees clock or counter clock when something of significant height needs to come through.

The only remaining requirement is that the bridge span would need to be a good 15-20 feet above the water to eliminate the need to raise for barges. That's not a problem.

Is this project still alive at all? I'd love to have at last two more supertalls up for the 2016 olympics. There couldn't be a better place in downtown to put one, either.

It's very much alive.

[Dr. Frankenstien] "IT'S ALIVE!!!" [Dr. Frankenstien]

nothing going on here with this... it must be a zombie

What is the status of this project now?

I'm sure the status for Wolf Point is non-existent right about now...too bad.

http://chicagoismynewblog.wordpress.com

http://www.izipik.com/images/200906/06/jwkzl8l5m3nclka38d-6.jpg

I'm not sure that a supertall skyscraper should be put on the site of Wolf Point. Maybe if the Merchandise Mart buildings weren't so short. There can be pros and cons to any proposal on Wolf Point. If I had a plan for Wolf Point, I would put a 100-150 m tower with a floor area of no less than a million square feet on that site.

^ I'll have it match the LaSelle building's height or mare slightly taller. they can go for a supertall when the west loop finally decides to expand....

Since you bumped this do u know anything new about it? still proposed? on hold? anything?...

Kennedys envision 3-tower development along Chicago River

http://www.suntimes.com/business/10235172-420/kennedys-envision-3-tower-development-along-chicago-river.html

3 60 story towers? I'm down with that! :D

Taller!

No supertalls are planned at the site? Cmon this is Chicago!

I heard somewhere that they are announcing plans in april, or they are proposing it basically.

Here we go, this is about get real.

From Ald. Reilly

I am writing to invite you to join me at a public presentation regarding a proposed development for the site located at 350 N. Orleans Street, commonly referred to as "Wolf Point."

Given the prominence of this property and the number of inquiries my office has received about the future development of this site, I have directed Hines Development Corporation and their team to start our community review process early, even before they take the initial step of filing a formal application with the City of Chicago. At this first community meeting, the Hines Development Team will present their proposed plan for the site; discuss their Traffic Study (commissioned at my request); and answer your questions about the Proposal.

The Applicant (Hines) has submitted a proposal for the development of three towers at this site, with Site "A" (West Tower) proposed as a residential, 525 foot tall structure containing 510 units and 200 parking stalls; Site "B" (South Tower) proposed as a 900 foot tall, mixed use structure containing 600 units and 885 parking stalls; and Site "C" (East Tower) proposed as a 750 foot tall, mixed use structure containing 200 parking stalls.

WHAT: 350 North Orleans (former Wolf Point site) Development Project

WHO: Hosted by Alderman Brendan Reilly, the River North Residents

Association (RNRA) and the Fulton River District Association (FRDA)

WHEN: Tuesday, May 29th at 5:30 P.M.

WHERE: Holiday Inn, 350 West Mart Center Drive - Wolf Point Ballroom

As you know, I make it a top priority to provide an open and transparent community review of all local development proposals. I hope you can join the RNRA, FRDA and me to engage in a direct dialogue with the Development Team to gain a better understanding of this proposal, share comments or concerns and receive answers to any questions you may have.

That is right, a 900 footer, a 750 footer, and 525 footer, and a meeting on the 29th of May, and the Kennedy's are behind this, time to get excited!

Great news! Let's hope this one gets approved soon!

Here we go, this is about get real.

From Ald. Reilly



That is right, a 900 footer, a 750 footer, and 525 footer, and a meeting on the 29th of May, and the Kennedy's are behind this, time to get excited!

Amazing find! Great news, I feel this seems more likely to happen.

This is about to get big!


http://www.suntimes.com/12408740-417...rman-says.html

Wolf Point plan could include 80-story building, alderman says
BY DAVID ROEDER Business Reporter droeder@suntimes.com May 8, 2012 9:16PM



thanks to Chi Coruscant from SSP for finding this.

Sun-Times: Wolf Point plan could include 80-story building, alderman says (http://www.suntimes.com/business/12408740-420/wolf-point-plan-could-include-80-story-building-alderman-says.html) (corrected link)

Crain's Chicago: Wolf Point developers revamp plan, gird for battle (http://bit.ly/wolfPT)

oops

^^Two totally different projects. River Point is across the river from Wolf Point. They are both Hines developments though. :lol:

^^Two totally different projects. River Point is across the river from Wolf Point. They are both Hines developments though. :lol:

Well I did make that disclaimer at the end. Are both pieces of land owned by the Kennedy's also?

^^No, just Wolf Point.

There's a public meeting about this development, from Alderman Reilly's newsletter:

WHAT: 350 North Orleans (former Wolf Point site) Development Project

WHO: Hosted by Alderman Brendan Reilly, the River North Residents Association (RNRA) and the Fulton River District Association (FRDA)

WHEN: Tuesday, May 29th at 5:30 P.M.

WHERE: Holiday Inn, 350 West Mart Center Drive – Wolf Point Ballroom

The Applicant (Hines) has submitted a proposal for the development of three towers at this site, with Site “A” (West Tower) proposed as a residential, 525 foot tall structure containing 510 units and 200 parking stalls; Site “B” (South Tower) proposed as a 900 foot tall, mixed use structure containing 600 units and 885 parking stalls; and Site “C” (East Tower) proposed as a 750 foot tall, mixed use structure containing 200 parking stalls.

There's a public meeting about this development, from Alderman Reilly's newsletter:

WHAT: 350 North Orleans (former Wolf Point site) Development Project

WHO: Hosted by Alderman Brendan Reilly, the River North Residents Association (RNRA) and the Fulton River District Association (FRDA)

WHEN: Tuesday, May 29th at 5:30 P.M.

WHERE: Holiday Inn, 350 West Mart Center Drive – Wolf Point Ballroom

The Applicant (Hines) has submitted a proposal for the development of three towers at this site, with Site “A” (West Tower) proposed as a residential, 525 foot tall structure containing 510 units and 200 parking stalls; Site “B” (South Tower) proposed as a 900 foot tall, mixed use structure containing 600 units and 885 parking stalls; and Site “C” (East Tower) proposed as a 750 foot tall, mixed use structure containing 200 parking stalls.

We should get some renders on May 29th, hopefully Cesar Pelli has a real Chicago gem planned.

http://www.suntimes.com/12851981-761/kennedys-unveil-three-tower-plan-for-wolf-pointlake-canal-site.html

New article with renderings!

The main tower is 950 ft or 290 meters. The office towers are being designed by Pelli. The apartment tower is being designed by BKL

http://i.imgur.com/kkOuB.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/vd1uM.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/rPzBl.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/TxbwE.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/WpJUb.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/7HvaN.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/N7Bbg.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/1UIhz.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/IkApU.jpg

http://images.photo1.walgreens.com/232323232%7Ffp43835%3Enu%3D3244%3E36%3B%3E27%3B%3EWSNRCG%3D368332928%3A324nu0mrj

http://images.photo1.walgreens.com/232323232%7Ffp43859%3Enu%3D3244%3E36%3B%3E27%3B%3EWSNRCG%3D368332%3B346324nu0mrj

http://images.photo1.walgreens.com/232323232%7Ffp43843%3Enu%3D3244%3E36%3B%3E27%3B%3EWSNRCG%3D368332%3B348324nu0mrj

http://images.photo1.walgreens.com/232323232%7Ffp43877%3Enu%3D3244%3E36%3B%3E27%3B%3EWSNRCG%3D368332%3B34%3A324nu0mrj

http://images.photo1.walgreens.com/232323232%7Ffp4385%3A%3Enu%3D3244%3E36%3B%3E27%3B%3EWSNRCG%3D36833279%3C6324nu0mrj

http://images.photo1.walgreens.com/232323232%7Ffp437%3B5%3Enu%3D3244%3E36%3B%3E27%3B%3EWSNRCG%3D368332%3A68%3B324nu0mrj

http://images.photo1.walgreens.com/232323232%7Ffp4384%3A%3Enu%3D3244%3E36%3B%3E27%3B%3EWSNRCG%3D368332%3C345324nu0mrj

http://images.photo1.walgreens.com/232323232%7Ffp433%3C%3B%3Enu%3D3244%3E36%3B%3E27%3B%3EWSNRCG%3D3683335444324nu0mrj

http://images.photo1.walgreens.com/232323232%7Ffp437%3C%3A%3Enu%3D3244%3E36%3B%3E27%3B%3EWSNRCG%3D3683335445324nu0mrj3C345324nu0mrj[/IMG]

http://images.photo1.walgreens.com/232323232%7Ffp43855%3Enu%3D3244%3E36%3B%3E27%3B%3EWSNRCG%3D3683335447324nu0mrj

http://images.photo1.walgreens.com/232323232%7Ffp43868%3Enu%3D3244%3E36%3B%3E27%3B%3EWSNRCG%3D3683335448324nu0mrj

http://images.photo1.walgreens.com/232323232%7Ffp437%3B%3A%3Enu%3D3244%3E36%3B%3E27%3B%3EWSNRCG%3D3683335449324nu0mrj

http://images.photo1.walgreens.com/232323232%7Ffp43448%3Enu%3D3244%3E36%3B%3E27%3B%3EWSNRCG%3D368333544%3B324nu0mrj

http://images.photo1.walgreens.com/232323232%7Ffp43859%3Enu%3D3244%3E36%3B%3E27%3B%3EWSNRCG%3D3683335458324nu0mrj

http://images.photo1.walgreens.com/232323232%7Ffp43862%3Enu%3D3244%3E36%3B%3E27%3B%3EWSNRCG%3D3683335459324nu0mrj

http://images.photo1.walgreens.com/232323232%7Ffp43878%3Enu%3D3244%3E36%3B%3E27%3B%3EWSNRCG%3D368333545%3B324nu0mrj

PHASE I
http://images.photo1.walgreens.com/232323232%7Ffp43848%3Enu%3D3244%3E36%3B%3E27%3B%3EWSNRCG%3D3683335463324nu0mrj

http://images.photo1.walgreens.com/232323232%7Ffp43849%3Enu%3D3244%3E36%3B%3E27%3B%3EWSNRCG%3D3683335464324nu0mrj

http://images.photo1.walgreens.com/232323232%7Ffp43855%3Enu%3D3244%3E36%3B%3E27%3B%3EWSNRCG%3D3683335467324nu0mrj

http://images.photo1.walgreens.com/232323232%7Ffp437%3B4%3Enu%3D3244%3E36%3B%3E27%3B%3EWSNRCG%3D3683335469324nu0mrj

http://images.photo1.walgreens.com/232323232%7Ffp437%3B%3A%3Enu%3D3244%3E36%3B%3E27%3B%3EWSNRCG%3D368333546%3B324nu0mrj

Reminds me of early images of the Trump Tower river-walk proposal.
http://images.photo1.walgreens.com/232323232%7Ffp43448%3Enu%3D3244%3E36%3B%3E27%3B%3EWSNRCG%3D368333547%3A324nu0mrj

http://images.photo1.walgreens.com/232323232%7Ffp43897%3Enu%3D3244%3E36%3B%3E27%3B%3EWSNRCG%3D3683335487324nu0mrj

http://images.photo1.walgreens.com/232323232%7Ffp43856%3Enu%3D3244%3E36%3B%3E27%3B%3EWSNRCG%3D368333548%3A324nu0mrj

http://images.photo1.walgreens.com/232323232%7Ffp43869%3Enu%3D3244%3E36%3B%3E27%3B%3EWSNRCG%3D3683335494324nu0mrj

http://images.photo1.walgreens.com/232323232%7Ffp43896%3Enu%3D3244%3E36%3B%3E27%3B%3EWSNRCG%3D36833354%3A8324nu0mrj


My personal opinion on this project is that it has potential. One of my biggest complaints is that 3 towers seem a little cluttered. Personally I'd rather see 2 taller towers over 3. It would allow for even more open space, sight corridors and create a greater punctuation on the skyline. I know the process is still early, but currently the towers seem flat and a little boring.

It was mentioned that over the years about 5,000 sq. ft. of developable land along the river has been lost to erosion.

Over 900' of river-walk will be constructed.

Phase I could possible begin in late 2012 and be completed in the fall of 2014.

Phase II could be build from 2016 and wrap up around 2018

Phase III could be completed around 2020.

Build lobbies will be tucked in and useable floor space begins about 90' up. They said this was to allow for a feel of openness.

They are planning to file the PD 05/20/12

The project will cost roughly $1,000,000,000 and generate about $40,000,000 in property tax revenue.

I think the renders look nice, and it will likely look even better once completed. Hopefully the design will improve upon further revisions.

Most importantly, I hope this gets built just to spite the selfish jackasses who thought buying a condo across the river gave them any priviledges into how this property gets developed.

If these guys really want to preserve their view, they should pool their money and buy the site from the Kennedy's. If they don't have enough money to do that, tough luck. Enjoy the riverwalk.

Butler, are you working on the project? (p.s. - it's wickedestcity)

I think the renders look nice, and it will likely look even better once completed. Hopefully the design will improve upon further revisions.

Most importantly, I hope this gets built just to spite the selfish jackasses who thought buying a condo across the river gave them any priviledges into how this property gets developed.

If these guys really want to preserve their view, they should pool their money and buy the site from the Kennedy's. If they don't have enough money to do that, tough luck. Enjoy the riverwalk.

I feel no sympathy for someone who buys a condo with a view dependent on a surface parking lot owned by the Kennedy family not being developed (riverfront property at that). Especially when (IIRC) there have been plans for a development here for quite some time, but they were put on hold because of the economy.

I would love to see a mock up of what the split in the river will look like with the 3 new projects announced for that spot.

I would love to see a mock up of what the split in the river will look like with the 3 new projects announced for that spot.

I will get on this, I have a picture that could work, but it is a bit small. If someone could get me a better picture that shows Wolf Point, River Point, and 111 Wacker that would be great.

I would love to see a mock up of what the split in the river will look like with the 3 new projects announced for that spot.



Here you go :cheers:

http://i.imgur.com/WWS0M.jpg

Actually, turns out there is a render of 111 Wacker that I was able to edit

http://i.imgur.com/hJxlQ.jpg

Is a new wave of building boom going on in Chicago?

Is a new wave of building boom going on in Chicago?

I would say it's a mini boom. Tons of buildings between 100-200m, several between 200-300, and a possible 300m+

It would be considered a big boom in any city but NY or Chicago though. There are some incredible developments going on though like Wolf Point. They are finally filling in the midpoint of the river, so Wolf Point and River point are huge for Chi town.

Here's what I am aware of so far.

-Wolf points (3 towers)
-River point (444 W Lake)
-111 W Wacker (former Waterview)
-The Coast
-One South Halsted (50+ stories??)
-500 N LSD
-there's a construction behind ronald mcdonald's house, not sure what it is??

Here's what I am aware of so far.

-Wolf points (3 towers)
-River point (444 W Lake)
-111 W Wacker (former Waterview)
-The Coast
-One South Halsted (50+ stories??)
-500 N LSD
-there's a construction behind ronald mcdonald's house, not sure what it is??

There are a lot more buildings then that. Look here - http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?t=1512283

I think Chicago is the city with the best (most beautiful, interesting, well designed) skyscrapers. I wonder how long the boom will last, when the city is actually getting smaller (in terms of number of inhabitants)?

I think Chicago is the city with the best (most beautiful, interesting, well designed) skyscrapers. I wonder how long the boom will last, when the city is actually getting smaller (in terms of number of inhabitants)?

Although Chicago is getting smaller, the loop/ downtown area population is getting bigger, and has gotten bigger.

Do we know yet what caused the pretty big reduction over the past 10 years? I can't just be the tearing down of public housing can it?

Do we know yet what caused the pretty big reduction over the past 10 years? I can't just be the tearing down of public housing can it?

Things will turn around, I wouldn't be too worried. Also, what caused the reduction is mostly the economy. A lot of people couldn't afford to live in the city, so they moved to the suburbs. Crime and living conditions also ruined some neighborhoods.

But Chicago's metro area continues to grow, and the loop area and its near surroundings continue to grow.

If you want a more detailed explanation, I would send Chicago George a pm. He seems to know a lot about this particular area.

maybe shrinking household sizes too?

I dunno, as long as the metro keeps in the black then the region will be OK. In a place that sort of walks the tightrope maybe one shouldn't necessarily hate the suburbs either, if they can continue to attract business, etc(from other places not cannibalizing the core city)

The basic and most simply way to think about it this: Chicago is huge, land area wise. Even though the neighborhoods surrounding the downtown core (the loop) are booming (some experiencing upwards of 900% growth) the further you go out from the loop, the more abandoned it becomes.

The far neighborhoods (far south side, far west side in particular) used to be some of the densest areas of Chicago. There has been in recent years a mass exodus from those farther flung, almost suburban areas. The exodus happened for a number of different reasons, but mainly crime, poverty, lack of jobs, closings of local businesses and schools that serviced the area.

So, even though the downtown and northern neighborhoods are booming right now, the west side and far southside have lost massive populations of people. Hell, you go 3 miles straight west down Grand Avenue and it's almost a Ghost town. Whole city blocks torn down with empty fields. This is what causes a net lost in Chicago population.

Revitalization is happening to the city, but it's going inward first, then expanding outward. In 2001 the near west side (Greek Town area) was practically a ghost town. Nothing but Abandoned factories and warehouses. Fast forward 10 years and I don't even recognize it anymore. All those abandoned factories have been turned into luxury lofts. Old meatpackers are now high-end clubs. So, it will eventually start expanding out to those further far flung neighborhoods, but it's not going to be quick. I assume the population will continue to stabilize overall the next few years, then it's likely we'll see growth once those neighborhoods start to see some infill and new businesses to the area.

I wonder how long the boom will last, when the city is actually getting smaller (in terms of number of inhabitants)?

Depends what you mean by "city".

The city proper of Chicago lost population, but the city proper encompasses both dense urban areas, low-density suburban areas, and even industrial and depopulated areas. The urban, centrally-located denser areas gained population substantially. Low-density areas (primarily low-income low-density areas) on the south and west sides, lost. This would be the equivalent of, say, NYC's Staten Island, Queens, and eastern Brooklyn losing people, while Manhattan and western Brooklyn are gaining substantially (this hasn't happened...I'm just making a hypothetical comparison)

The Chicago metropolitan area as a whole also gained population. Even from a commercial, non-residential standpoint: the city center is centrally located, and accessible (via commuter rail) to millions of suburbanites. So demand for office space hasn't waned either, relative to the economic crisis. Chicago-area firms like United and Motorola are moving their operations back into the city, from the suburbs.

So, no, the city isn't shrinking.

Municipal boundaries are VERY arbitrary and misleading.

Is this thing still alive? I am getting married at the Holiday Inn (above the Sun Times) next year. Is this going to ruin all the parking for my guest? As much as I would love this project to happen it has me a bit worried!

Is this thing still alive? I am getting married at the Holiday Inn (above the Sun Times) next year. Is this going to ruin all the parking for my guest? As much as I would love this project to happen it has me a bit worried!

If you are only going to have one guest, then you shouldn't have much of a problem. :):cheers:

If you are only going to have one guest, then you shouldn't have much of a problem. :):cheers:

Seriously though, this is no time for grammar Natzi's...

Is this thing still alive? I am getting married at the Holiday Inn (above the Sun Times) next year. Is this going to ruin all the parking for my guest? As much as I would love this project to happen it has me a bit worried!

It's reached the approval stage quite intact. How the project is staged and when construction starts are still up in the air.

It's reached the approval stage quite intact. How the project is staged and when construction starts are still up in the air.

When was it approved? Is this article from the 16th of November wrong or does it simply not differentiate between proposed and approved?

http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2012-11-16/news/ct-met-wolf-point-20121116_1_wolf-point-chicago-river-architecture

I don't believe the project's been approved. I think it will be considered at the December 11th, 2012, board meeting of the Public Building Commission of Chicago (PBC). That meeting's agenda hasn't been set but you'll find it here (http://www.pbcchicago.com/content/about/calendar_types.asp?tID=2) when it has.

You can also find a lot of summary information about the project (and fairly frequent updates) from 42nd Ward Alderman Reilly's email newsletter and on his website (http://www.ward42chicago.com/Wolf_Point.html).

I pulled this excerpt out of the article.

"Ald. Brendan Reilly, 42nd, has signed off on the billion-dollar project, which developers expect to present to the Chicago Plan Commission at its Nov. 27 meeting. City Council approval is also needed before construction can begin."

I pulled this excerpt out of the article.

"Ald. Brendan Reilly, 42nd, has signed off on the billion-dollar project, which developers expect to present to the Chicago Plan Commission at its Nov. 27 meeting. City Council approval is also needed before construction can begin."

I was totally mistaken. It's the Chicago Plan Commission, not the Public Building Commission, that needs to sign off on the project. I was reminded about this today when I received another e-newsletter from Alderman Reilly, which you can read here (http://campaign.r20.constantcontact.com/render?llr=fn8xeqcab&v=001750MJEUdJzOMkciPCLjF7YZjPY-1p5_UXkwmNDlfXahwkP1-bpIDDisSqnacXOyTED7hFhaHp_PmGnVQDuZzJunnLMtRov9F6-hFKgpfd_I%3D).

When was it approved? Is this article from the 16th of November wrong or does it simply not differentiate between proposed and approved?

http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2012-11-16/news/ct-met-wolf-point-20121116_1_wolf-point-chicago-river-architecture

It's nearing approval (see "approval stage" in my post, vs approved). A major stumbling block, Alderman Reilly's blessing, has been surmounted:

Next stop: Full Approval

Reilly Rules Wolf Point Won’t Be Spayed By Howling Neighbors (http://blog.chicagoarchitecture.info/2012/11/11/reilly-rules-wolf-point-wont-be-spayed-by-howling-neighbors/)


The three skyscrapered mega-project due to sprout along the Chicago River late this year has been officially given the nod of approval from 42nd ward alderman Brendan Reilly.

Some think replacing the surface parking lot at Wolf Point (350 North Orleans Street) with two office one residential tower is just too much for the neighborhood, the traffic grid, and their views. But in an e-mail sent to his constituents, Reilly let it be known that the plan has his blessing.

In the grand tradition of Chicago politics, his is the only voice that matters. For decades it has been virtually unheard of for any alderman to vote against a project that has the backing of its local representative. That means, for all intents and purposes, Wolf Point is a go. And considering the words we’ve heard from the developer recently, we could see dirt turned before the end of the year.

...


In all likelihood, the project will gain full approval.

It's nearing approval (see "approval stage" in my post, vs approved). A major stumbling block, Alderman Reilly's blessing, has been surmounted:

Next stop: Full Approval

Reilly Rules Wolf Point Won’t Be Spayed By Howling Neighbors (http://blog.chicagoarchitecture.info/2012/11/11/reilly-rules-wolf-point-wont-be-spayed-by-howling-neighbors/)



In all likelihood, the project will gain full approval.

I hope not until some design revisions are made. We can do better than what's currently on the table.

I hope not until some design revisions are made. We can do better than what's currently on the table.

If it doesn't work out that way, hopefully the completed project will turn out a lot better than you expected.

Is this thing still alive? I am getting married at the Holiday Inn (above the Sun Times) next year. Is this going to ruin all the parking for my guest? As much as I would love this project to happen it has me a bit worried!
As a former resident of the neighborhood who lived a block away from the site I am going to say that even if that surface lot is gone when your guests arrive, there is still a ton of overnight and daytime parking in the area. The hotel and MM are practically surrounded with structured parking. I know for a fact that the residential parking for the building I lived in was less than 1/3 full every night.

If it doesn't work out that way, hopefully the completed project will turn out a lot better than you expected.

The problem here is these are not bad designs, they just aren't up to par for what the site is. If these buildings were placed anywhere else in the city, they would be welcome with open arms. The real issue here is the location these buildings are set for. This is Wolf Point, a historically important site for the city of Chicago that also happens to be a very visually prominent site. This land parcel is essentially a stage that a huge amount of people are going to have a clear view to and as being such a visually prominent site, the project deserves a world class design which unfortunately this is not. These are glass buildings that would easily disappear into any other group of nondescript buildings.

Oh, I see! The site itself deserves better.

Alderman Reilly just sent this email (http://campaign.r20.constantcontact.com/render?llr=fn8xeqcab&v=001xPdLKy4-WIwpQ1MUcJBDHX5AIfkbV_62rev6aJj7Qq5kBQkDgBN2JSyUrySAVMIVWDRu-XLXwH2xdduBI1StOkl1GW4QeBrI3i6D1w-967I%3D) (11-27-12 14:17):

"Alderman Brendan Reilly today asked the Chicago Plan Commission to defer consideration of the Wolf Point development proposal and remove it from the agenda for today's Plan Commission Hearing. The Alderman announced his decision after receiving the final documents that would govern the planned development on Monday, less than 24 hours prior to today's hearing. Further, the final documents submitted to the city did not accurately reflect the significant changes to the proposal that the Alderman negotiated on behalf of his constituents in the River North and Fulton River District neighborhoods.

[snip]


At Alderman Reilly's request, the Chicago Plan Commission is deferring consideration of the Wolf Point proposal to allow additional time for public input regarding the "bulk table" that dictates programming and uses for the site. Although the item is being deferred, the Alderman said he believes all other major issues related to the project have been resolved relating to: architecture, the site plan, public open space and traffic management. He said he believes the last unresolved issue is the "bulk table" that provides specifics related to the breakdown and location of residential, hotel and office use on the site."

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8073/8261906554_ed704e0cb7_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/45670325@N07/8261906554/)
Wolf Point Quick History (http://www.flickr.com/photos/45670325@N07/8261906554/) by HomrQT (http://www.flickr.com/people/45670325@N07/), on Flickr

Thanks to http://friendsofwolfpoint.com/ for putting it together

Wolf Point Vote Could Come Next Week (http://www.chicagorealestatedaily.com/article/20130117/CRED03/130119770/wolf-point-vote-could-come-next-week)


A proposal to build three high-rises on Wolf Point could face a key test next Thursday, when the Chicago Plan Commission is set to review the project, which has drawn criticism from neighborhood residents and ambivalence from the area's alderman.

The development near the Merchandise Mart is on the commission's agenda for the third straight month. Ald. Brendan Reilly, 42nd, had pulled it off the agendas for the commission's November and December meetings. The tentative lineup for the Jan. 24 meeting includes the latest proposal from the project's developer, a venture led by Houston-based Hines Interests L.P. and the Kennedy family.

It's unclear whether Mr. Reilly supports the current proposal. According to long-running city tradition, aldermen must sign off on projects in their wards before developers seek city approval. Ellen Barry, leader of Friends of Wolf Point, a neighborhood group that opposes the development, said the alderman's chief of staff told her earlier this week that he “hasn't taken a position on it yet.” Mr. Reilly and his chief of staff could not be reached for comment Thursday. Late last year, Mr. Reilly said the project wasn't a done deal.

Hines and the Kennedys want to spend $1 billion on three towers on Wolf Point, starting with a 510-unit apartment building on the west end of the site.

After initially giving the project his blessing, Mr. Reilly twice postponed a Plan Commission vote on Wolf Point, objecting to what he said were last-minute changes by the development team, such as language allowing 1,800 hotel rooms on the property.

After the delays, Mr. Reilly organized a third community meeting in late December, where the developers promised additional community reviews of the project and said they would cap the number of hotel rooms at 450.

[...]
Read more: http://www.chicagorealestatedaily.com/article/20130117/CRED03/130119770/wolf-point-vote-could-come-next-week#ixzz2IOlTLYGH
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Possible future view of Wolf Point.

http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-98WsX1SDwX8/UQhrKpzm-cI/AAAAAAAAQPE/Zr7zHXsqXTQ/s1600/Screen+shot+2013-01-28+at+1.46.23+PM.png

Love it!!!!

I am loving this project, it is good to see it is still moving forward. I am looking forward to seeing these towers rising on my future trips to Chicago.

They are not bad, but I wish more creative design went into them. Like this...

http://pacificmetropolis.typepad.com/photos/uncategorized/687_howe_3.gif

The site is so historic, so visually important, it deserves an award winning design. And the Kennedy's have the money/resources to make it happen.

I like what's planned better.

I like what's planned better.

Fair enough, we each have our opinions. Are you fully satisfied with what's planned or do you think a better design could/should be implemented?

Fair enough, we each have our opinions. Are you fully satisfied with what's planned or do you think a better design could/should be implemented?

I'm not fully satisfied with it, but at the same time, I don't have an example of what I think might work better either, so I really can't say, HomrQT. I'd have to see more examples.

Fair enough, we each have our opinions. Are you fully satisfied with what's planned or do you think a better design could/should be implemented?

I have to say that I like the towers because they seem to be very simple and elegant without being just boxy floor plates or cluttered with detail so that it clashes with the Merchandise Mart.

I like them because they block out the Chicago Apparel Center. I have far bigger ideas for the property but all would need the Apperal Center to be torn down!

I like them because they block out the Chicago Apparel Center. I have far bigger ideas for the property but all would need the Apperal Center to be torn down!

The Apparel Mart is an abomination. Could you imagine if they tore it down and made the entire site the project?!

^^Even better if a decade or so from now they'd knock it down and build a real supertall. Now that's a spot I wouldn't mind seeing a 2000 footer, dwarfing Wolf Point too.

I just picture some supertall that tapers away from the river to a point, (white maybe) with a very large public plaza in front. Also i would redo/ add a riverwalk in front of the Merchandise Mart to bring it all together. To bad i dont have a few billion dollars !

West Tower will be first to go up at Wolf Point (http://blog.chicagoarchitecture.info/2013/02/10/the-backstory-on-bkl/)

http://blog.chicagoarchitecture.info/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/bKL-Chicago-Illinois-February-2013-001a.jpg


In Chicago’s lexicon of TLA’s (three-letter acronyms), it’s not as commonly spoken as LSD, UIC, or ORD. But in architecture circles it may soon be as well-known as SOM, or SCB. It’s bKL, the shiny new architecture firm with shiny new offices, a shiny new staff, and a couple of shiny new buildings that are going to help put it on the map.

The big commission is none other than the west tower of Wolf Point (316 North Orleans Street), the billion-dollar development on the Chicago River’s most prominent spit of land. While local NIMBY’s continue to foam at the mouth about the destruction of a surface parking lot (and their views), the developers are pushing ahead. And the first of the three towers to be built was designed by bKL.

[...]

Procedural Error Stalls Wolf Point Vote (http://www.chicagorealestatedaily.com/article/20130213/CRED03/130219880/procedural-error-stalls-wolf-point-development)


The Wolf Point project has hit another bump in the road.

Chicago's City Council was unable to vote today on a plan to allow a three-tower development on the riverside property because its Zoning Committee incorrectly gave public notice about when it planned to consider the controversial proposal. The committee mistakenly listed March 11 instead of Feb. 11 as the date it would convene following a late-January Plan Commission vote approving the Wolf Point plans, a city spokesman said.

The mistake wasn't corrected within 48 hours of Monday's meeting, the minimum amount of time required to provide notice about public hearings, the spokesman said. That rendered void the unanimous vote the Zoning Committee gave the Wolf Point plan on Monday. A final City Council vote on Wolf Point was expected today. Ald. Daniel Solis (25th), the chairman of the committee, did not immediately return a call seeking comment.

For Wolf Point's developers, a venture between Houston-based Hines Interests L.P. and the Kennedy family, it's another delay in an approval process that stretches back at least to last May, when the group unveiled its plans for the site, a property southwest of the Merchandise Mart that juts out into the Chicago River. The project was on track for approval by November, but then Ald. Brendan Reilly (42nd) twice delayed a Plan Commission vote on the deal, criticizing what he said were changes to the project that weren't vetted by the public. He later swung to full support of Wolf Point after the developers revised their proposal.

The Zoning Committee is expected to re-hear the Wolf Point plan at its meeting on Feb. 26, the city spokesman said. The full City Council isn't scheduled to meet again until March 13.

[...]
Read more: http://www.chicagorealestatedaily.com/article/20130213/CRED03/130219880/procedural-error-stalls-wolf-point-development#ixzz2KpPSFpKS

Zoning Committee Approves Wolf Woint West Tower, Again (http://www.marinacityonline.com/news/wolf0226.htm)






.

Westernmost Wolf Point Residential tower will go first:

http://i810.photobucket.com/albums/zz21/esb1250/wolf_west_tower_model1_zps0314b9cd.jpg (http://s810.photobucket.com/user/esb1250/media/wolf_west_tower_model1_zps0314b9cd.jpg.html)

Wolf Point construction starts July 31 (http://www.marinacityonline.com/news/wolf0508.htm)


8-May-13 – The first of three towers at Chicago’s Wolf Point will start to take shape on July 31, according to the building’s architects.

Thomas Kerwin of bKL Architecture says plans for a groundbreaking ceremony have not been announced. bKL designed the 525-foot, 510-unit residential tower that will be the first building constructed – which should take about 22 months, according to Kerwin. James McHugh Construction Company of Chicago and Clark Construction Company, based in Lansing, Michigan, will be working together as general contractors

On February 26, the Committee on Zoning, Landmarks and Building Standards approved a zoning reclassification that will let developers build the tower on the west side of Wolf Point. The tower will cost $175 million and create 400 construction jobs, according to Jack George, an attorney for Houston-based Hines Interests L.P., developer of the 3.85-acre site on land owned by the Kennedy family. The project will eventually include a 950-foot south tower and a 750-foot east tower that will both contain a mix of office, retail, and residential space.

Friends of Wolf Point, a vocal critic of the project that was concerned that the increase in traffic would overwhelm their neighborhood, appears to have moved on. The group’s website was recently taken down although the domain name they registered last year does not expire until 2015.

[...]

Circle The Construction Trailers, NIMBYs Are On The Warpath: (http://www.chicagorealestatedaily.com/article/20130531/CRED03/130539960/condo-owners-sue-to-block-wolf-point-project)

http://chicago.curbed.com/uploads/053113-wolf%20point.jpeg


After losing in City Hall, opponents of a massive development planned on Wolf Point have taken their fight to the federal courts, where they have sued to block the project.

A condominium association representing residents of a high-rise across the river has sued the city of Chicago, alleging that the process by which it approved the three-tower plan for Wolf Point was unconstitutional.

The 37-page lawsuit includes a litany of complaints, contending at one point that the project “will result in the significant diminution” in the value of the condos in Residences at RiverBend. (Read the complaint below.)

The high-rise stands across the Chicago River from Wolf Point, an undeveloped peninsula where the river's north and south branches meet. Wolf Point's developers want to build three towers that would block eastern views from RiverBend, some of the most spectacular views of the Chicago River in the city.

The City Council approved the Wolf Point plan in March, and the developers, a joint venture of the Kennedy family and Hines Interests L.P., plan to break ground this summer on the first of three towers, an apartment building. A tie-up in court could delay that timetable. A court victory for the condo association could force the city to start the approval process all over again.

The city denied opponents of the project their due process rights by not allowing them to cross-examine witnesses at public hearings about the plan and not providing them requested information about the development's impact on traffic, according to the lawsuit, filed yesterday in U.S. District Court in Chicago. Opponents of the development have said the streets around Wolf Point are too congested already.

[...]
Read more: http://www.chicagorealestatedaily.com/article/20130531/CRED03/130539960/condo-owners-sue-to-block-wolf-point-project#ixzz2V0W8n2dX
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