DNAinfo.com recently featured an article about a historic firehouse in Chicago that's set to undergo a transformation. The vacant, city-owned firehouse at 5714 N. Ridge Ave., a Chicago Landmark constructed in 1928 and adorned with terra cotta details, is now slated to be sold to Chicago Filmmakers, a nonprofit organization based in Andersonville. This announcement marks a new chapter for the property, which has been unoccupied since firefighters vacated the premises back in 2003.
According to Chris Chang, a spokesperson for the Department of Housing and Economic Development, the city selected Chicago Filmmakers from several other arts and community groups vying for the opportunity to acquire and revitalize the landmark. If approved by the Chicago Plan Commission and City Council, the city plans to sell the firehouse for a mere $36,000—just 10% of its market value. In return, Chicago Filmmakers has committed to investing approximately $600,000 into restoring the deteriorating structure.
Brenda Webb, the executive director of Chicago Filmmakers, expressed her excitement during a recent community meeting. She emphasized that the organization aims to transform the firehouse into a vibrant hub for film enthusiasts, offering weekly screenings of indie films and documentaries that aren't typically shown at mainstream theaters. Webb also highlighted the group's plans to collaborate with nearby schools, host two film festivals annually, and provide experimental and unconventional programming.
"The firehouse will serve as a community resource," Webb stated confidently. She noted that if everything proceeds according to schedule, the city's approval could come through in the spring, allowing renovations to commence promptly. The entire renovation process is expected to take between eight months to a year following the acquisition.
Residents of the area have eagerly awaited a new tenant for this long-vacant building, which has been exposed to the elements for nearly two decades. The search for a suitable occupant began ten years ago, but it wasn't until May that the city issued a formal request for proposals from various groups interested in revitalizing idle firehouses across Chicago.
An open house held earlier this summer drew interest from potential tenants including representatives from a brewery, theater companies, and even a preschool. Sue Morales, president of the local block club, voiced her support for Chicago Filmmakers' vision, believing it aligns perfectly with the neighborhood's needs and character.
James Gorski, the organization's architect, outlined the proposed changes to the firehouse. He explained that the basement would primarily serve as storage space while the first floor's truck bay would be converted into a cozy screening room capable of seating up to 99 people. The second floor, meanwhile, would house classrooms. An elevator would also be installed to ensure accessibility throughout the building.
The main entrance would be relocated to face the alley, with a concession stand and restroom conveniently placed just inside. The current parking lot, which accommodates 15 vehicles, will remain intact. Alderman Harry Osterman (48th Ward) mentioned that Chicago Filmmakers was one of two top contenders; they ultimately won out over a for-profit arts organization whose identity remains undisclosed.
Chicago Filmmakers, established in 1973, has previously leased the second floor of 5243 N. Clark Street for 17 years. Brenda Webb admitted that she'd always dreamed of acquiring the firehouse. Her initial visit left her disheartened when she discovered the flooded basement. However, she remained hopeful and eventually secured the perfect opportunity to bring life back to this iconic structure.
As DNAinfo.com continues to follow this story, it's clear that the future of the firehouse holds promise not only for filmmakers but for the entire community.
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