Tall & Urban News

The University of Illinois (U of I) has changed its plan for the USD$285 million Discovery Partners Institute (DPI) in the South Loop at The 78 in Chicago. Instead of continuing with a single building, the university is splitting the project between a quantum technology campus at the former U.S. Steel plant on the Far South Side of Chicago and a downtown presence. The shift comes after preliminary construction had already started on the 1.5-acre site near 15th and Wells streets. This change aligns with the university's focus on quantum computing, which is expected to revolutionize technology.

Governor JB Pritzker has pledged USD$500 million to quantum research, including the Illinois Quantum & Microelectronics Park, where the University of Illinois will oversee operations. Tim Killeen, president of the U of I system, emphasized the importance of leading in this field while continuing to focus on research and workforce development. The move has positioned the developer of The 78, Related Midwest, without a secured anchor tenant for the project. Even with this new outcome, Related CEO Curt Bailey expressed optimism about the possibilities for the site.

The DPI project’s redirection to quantum technology underscores Illinois' commitment to being a global leader in the field. The decision also reflects changing dynamics in downtown Chicago post-COVID-19, with rising construction costs and cheaper office rentals prompting U of I to reconsider its approach. Killeen suggested leasing office space instead of building new, given the lower costs.

While the university is shifting its vision for DPI, Related Midwest is exploring other opportunities for The 78, including the possibility of building sports stadiums for teams like the White Sox and Chicago Fire FC. This flexibility in programming the large 62-acre site could open up new developments for the city’s future.

Learn more about this story at Crains Chicago Business.