The United Center owners have pitched a $7-billion plan to upgrade the neighbourhood that surrounds the facility. This would be a huge undertaking for sports in Chicago, Illinois.
JUST ANNOUNCED: United Center Joint Venture, alongside city and community leaders, unveil The 1901 Project – a transformative $7B private investment surrounding the iconic arena on Chicago’s West Side! #The1901ProjectChi
Get an inside look at https://t.co/Ro6eivshtE pic.twitter.com/Kth0kG86P0— United Center (@UnitedCenter) July 23, 2024
The 1901 Plan Would Change the Entire Area
The United Center has housed the Chicago Bulls and Chicago Blackhawks since opening in 1994. For 20 years, fans have made the trip to support their team. Like the previous Chicago Stadium, the United Center can get so loud that it has also been nicknamed the “Madhouse on Madison,” after the street it located on.
Fans have not needed any additional reason to visit the United Center. However, the 1901 Plan would upgrade the surrounding neighbourhoods, making the United Center an even more attractive place to visit.
Details Of the Plan
The project would cover 55 acres. All of the surface lots would have a music hall, a hotel, and a park, and retail and residential buildings built in their place. Furthermore, it would create a year-round retail and entertainment centre that would give fans another means of entertainment before or after an event at the United Center.
The pitched project has been compared to the Wrigley Field renovations that took place in 2015. The plan would create 63,000 jobs and 13,000 permanent jobs.
There is Much to Look Forward to In Chicago
It said that when one door closes, another opens. That appears to be the case in Chicago, especially for the Blackhawks. Players from the 2010’s dynasty such as Patrick Kane and Jonathan Toews are gone. The dynasty is now just a really pleasant memory.
However, brighter days are ahead for the Blackhawks. Connor Bedard is coming off of his rookie season. The winger was named to the All-Star team. Furthermore, Bedard won the Calder Trophy as the league’s best rookie. The team has made some acquisitions this offseason that will make them a tough team to play against this coming season. Moreover, the 1901 Plan, if approved, will create new opportunities to enjoy, along with other events, Blackhawks hockey.
Main photo: Jamie Sabau-USA TODAY Sports
