July 18, 2009 – A Chicago ordinance proposed by 42nd Ward Alderman Brendan Reilly would make it easier for older structures to be re-developed, giving them “historic status” or actual landmark status.

Under the ordinance introduced by Reilly at the City Council meeting on June 3, owners of structures 50 years or older would be excused from zoning restrictions, allowing the structure to be redeveloped.

Reilly says he is concerned about older buildings in the 42nd Ward, which includes the River North neighborhood of downtown Chicago, “facing high vacancy rates due to their obsolescence.” (Left) 42nd Ward Alderman Brendan Reilly

In a recent newsletter, Reilly’s office argues “the city cannot afford for these important buildings to ultimately be abandoned and left to deteriorate because their zoning does not allow for the flexibility necessary for redevelopment. In this environment, we need creative approaches to retain and whenever possible, expand our economic base.”

The ordinance is sponsored by Reilly, 2nd Ward Alderman Robert Fioretti, and 27th Ward Alderman Walter Burnett. It is scheduled to be read at the August 25 meeting of the city’s Committee on Zoning.

Meanwhile, according to Karen Bates of the Commission on Chicago Landmarks, Marina City has yet to appear on the agenda of any meetings to discuss its landmark status that Reilly proposed last August.

(Left) Built in 1895, Chicago Varnish Company Building at 33 West Kinzie Street, a rare example in Chicago of Dutch Renaissance Revival architecture, was designated a Chicago Landmark on July 25, 2001. Located on the same block as Marina City, it is currently the home of Harry Caray’s Italian Steakhouse.

 Read the proposed ordinance