5 Things to Know: Sullivan building gets money; cinemas now OK in the Loop
The city's use of tax-increment financing dollars is sometimes questioned and criticized, but historic preservationists are likely happy that $9.4 million in TIF money will go toward restoration of the Sullivan Center at 1 S. State.
Not familiar with the place? It's the former Carson Pirie Scott department store, and its famous decorative iron façade will be overhauled with the TIF assistance, city officials announced. The circa-1900 building, designed by architect Louis Sullivan, is being converted for mixed uses.
Roll 'em. At one time, the Loop was a ghetto of "grindhouse" movie theaters that played exploitation flicks; Mayor Richard Daley had opposed allowing movie theaters at the publicly assisted "Block 37" redevelopment at State and Randolph streets. But last week, the mayor said he was OK with developers' plans to include a "high-end" movie theater, the kind that serves dinner fare to patrons.
Chicago discount. Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan (D-Chicago) moved closer to endorsing a casino for the city. And he said Chicago should not have to pay a state fee to hold a gaming license. City officials have said they can't afford the $800 million suggested price tag.
Wuthering heights. Several altruistic souls with firm calves will climb the Sears Tower the old-fashioned way: via the stairs. The Damon Runyon Cancer Research Foundation is sponsoring a charitable event Nov. 11 in which participants will walk 103 floors, from the lobby to the Observation Deck.
What's next. Also on Nov. 11, officials will cut the ribbon on the state's newest highway - a $730 million, 12-mile extension of Interstate 355, linking south suburban Bolingbrook with New Lenox. The six-laner is supposed to save time for motorists in the region. Meanwhile, I-355 will be renamed Veterans Memorial Tollway. For more information, go to www.illinoistollway.com <http://www.illinoistollway.com/> .
Mike Ramsey is Chicago reporter for GateHouse News Service. He can be reached at (312) 857-2323 or ghns-ramsey@sbcglobal.net <mailto:ghns-ramsey@sbcglobal.net> .