The massive $1 billion redevelopment of the historic Union Station has been reworked following the release of the initial proposal. The plans had included a seven-story apartment complex atop the landmarked Beaux Arts building which is no longer part of the proposal.
The new plan now calls for a single-story addition to the station’s historic 1925 headhouse building – to which the upper levels will house two hotels with 400 guests suites and an office space for Amtrak as well. The penthouse level will aim to blend seamlessly into the building’s existing architecture and will not be seen from street level.
To absorb the expected increase in traffic around the hotel at Union Station, the traffic management plan will work to reduce the drop offs on Adams. A hotel entrance will be added on the Jackson Street, retail space on Clinton and the valet will be relocated to the interior of the building.
The second phase of redevelopment will take aim at Amtrak’s parking lot structure just south of the transit center. The area there will be made into a brand new 50-story, 715 foot tall office tower. Designed by Chicago’s Goettsch Partners, the tower will feature a sleek, glassy facade with a 3 setback and angled columns at the base. This phase will also feature a 1.5-acre park and plaza open to the public.
Though it has yet to go through the entire approval process, the new reimagined plan is striking better public endorsement. Located in the West Loop neighborhood, this project will help with traffic and add new construction to the booming area. The bustling travel hub will become more accessible and add a modern asset to the charming history already preserved there.
