Following up on a demolition permit article, partial site clearing has begun for a 21-story mixed-use tower at 741 N Wells Street in River North. Planned by Vista Property Group, the development will integrate with a historic three-story brick building at its northwest corner bordering the intersection of W Chicago Avenue and N Wells Street.
The scope of the project involves 9,400 square feet (873 square meters) of commercial space and 178 rental apartments, divided into 70 studios, 68 one-bedrooms, and 40 two-bedrooms. There will be 18 on-site affordable units, as well as a contribution by the developer into the neighborhood opportunity fund, which funds new business opportunities in areas of Chicago that generally lack private investment.
Set to rise 255 feet (77.7 meters) Antunovich Associates is the architect behind the project, with a facade to be comprised of floor-to-ceiling windows and dark metal trimming. The front side looking onto Wells Street has a serrated shape to provide corner-like views to non-corner units. The amenity enclosure tops off the design with an overhang that’s supported by V-shaped columns, while the podium will be clad in brick to complement the integrated masonry low-rise.
On-site, there will be a 53-vehicle garage and 150 bike parking spaces. This heavily transit-oriented development is also located amidst several bus options for Routes 22, 66, and 156, all of which offer bus stops within a five-minute walking radius. Those looking to board CTA L trains for the Brown and Purple Lines will also find Chicago station via a two-minute walk west. The Red Line is also within close proximity, located a seven-minute walk east to the other Chicago station.
As of now, a foundation and superstructure permit has been filed but not yet issued. Skender is serving as general contractor for the US$48 million build, with an anticipated 19-month construction timeline expected to wrap up in 2024.
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