South Loop community members are calling for greater involvement in discussions about a new megadevelopment, as plans emerge for another major project in the area. The request comes after reports on Mar. 19 that Shore Capital founder Justin Ishbia is looking to purchase the 14th Street Coach Yard and transform it into a mixed-use development, potentially anchored by a new White Sox stadium.
The topic is significant because the South Loop has seen several large-scale projects proposed or underway, raising questions about infrastructure, traffic, and community impact. Residents say their voices should be included as decisions are made that could reshape their neighborhood.
According to Crain’s Chicago, Ishbia—who is currently a minority owner of the White Sox—may soon acquire a majority stake in the team and has expressed interest in building a new home for the franchise. The site under consideration is currently used by Amtrak for maintenance and sits across from Related Midwest’s planned “78” development, where construction on a new Chicago Fire soccer stadium has already begun.
Despite these developments, White Sox leadership told the Sun-Times they remain focused on securing a ballpark at The 78. Team owner Jerry Reinsdorf recently failed to secure support from state lawmakers for his preferred plan during a trip to Springfield. The team’s lease at Rate Field expires in 2029, which could open up further changes in ownership or location.
Meanwhile, developer Bob Dunn continues efforts to advance his One Central megadevelopment near Soldier Field. Crain’s reported that legislation supporting this scaled-down project seeks $1.6 billion in state-issued bonds.
Amid these proposals, Alderman Pat Dowell of the Third Ward has stated she supports only one new sports complex—the Fire stadium—in her district but did not respond to requests for comment regarding additional projects.
Marj Halperin of One Community Near South said her group will host a meeting March 31 so residents can share their views on these plans. “We want to know how the developers will work with the community. We want to talk about a Community Benefits Agreement that is specific about involving us and managing the impact of the development. We want to know about transit plans,” Halperin said.
Halperin also raised concerns about unresolved issues related to traffic patterns around the Fire stadium and potential complications if another stadium is built nearby: “We could find ourselves [in] the meat of a development sandwich, and all of that requires very careful planning,” she said.
