DNAinfo.com recently featured an article about a historic firehouse in Chicago being put up for sale. The city-owned building, located at 5714 N. Ridge Ave. and constructed in 1928, is set to be purchased by the nonprofit Chicago Filmmakers. This move comes as part of a new initiative announced by the city to repurpose several vacant firehouses.
Out of various art and community organizations that expressed interest, the city selected Chicago Filmmakers to renovate this landmark structure. If everything goes according to plan, the Chicago Plan Commission and City Council will approve the deal soon. In a gesture of support, the city plans to sell the firehouse for a mere $36,000, which is only 10% of its current market value, as explained by Chris Chang, a spokesperson from the Department of Housing and Economic Development.
Chicago Filmmakers, known for hosting film festivals, independent movie screenings, and film education programs, is prepared to invest $600,000 into restoring the aging building. Brenda Webb, the executive director of Chicago Filmmakers, shared her excitement at the news during a community meeting held last week. She emphasized their vision to transform the space into a community hub offering unique film experiences and collaborations with local schools.
Webb highlighted that the nonprofit aims to provide a venue for weekly screenings of independent and documentary films, emphasizing content that cannot typically be found at mainstream theaters. Additionally, the renovated firehouse will host two annual film festivals and feature experimental and unconventional programming.
If approved, the city hopes to finalize the sale by spring, allowing immediate commencement of construction. According to Webb, the renovation process could take anywhere between eight months to a year. For years, residents have eagerly awaited a new tenant for this abandoned firehouse, which has been vacant since 2003. The initial search for a new occupant began a decade ago, but it wasn't until May that the city issued requests for proposals from interested parties.
Earlier this summer, an open house event drew interest from potential tenants including a brewery, theater groups, and even a preschool. Sue Morales, president of the local block club, voiced her approval of the Chicago Filmmakers' proposal, stating that it aligns well with the neighborhood's needs and values.
Architect James Gorski outlined the proposed changes to the firehouse. He mentioned that the basement will primarily serve as storage, while the first floor's truck bay will be converted into a screening room capable of seating up to 99 people. The second floor will house classrooms, and an elevator will be installed for accessibility. The main entrance will face the alley, with a concession stand and restroom placed near the entrance. The existing parking lot will retain its 15-space capacity.
Alderman Harry Osterman (48th Ward) noted that Chicago Filmmakers emerged victorious among two finalists, beating out a for-profit arts organization whose identity remains undisclosed. Webb, reflecting on the history of Chicago Filmmakers, mentioned that the organization was established in 1973 and has been leasing space at 5243 N. Clark St. for the past 17 years. She recalled her first visit to the firehouse, which revealed a damp basement full of water—a far cry from the vibrant cultural center it is destined to become.
As the community eagerly anticipates this transformation, there is hope that the renovated firehouse will not only revitalize the area but also strengthen ties between filmmakers, educators, and residents. With its rich architectural heritage and potential for creative innovation, this project promises to bring life back to a long-neglected site.
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