Discover how a major development project in Chicago is introducing state-of-the-art sports facilities and enhancing the city’s appeal for sports event planners

Chicago’s Near West Side is set for a major transformation with the $7 billion 1901 Project, a redevelopment of 55 acres around the United Center into a dynamic mixed-use district. Designed by LA-based RIOS in partnership with United Center officials, the project will replace surface parking lots with 9,000+ residential units (20% of which will be affordable), 1,300 hotel rooms, retail, and 25 acres of green space.

Recently approved by the Chicago Plan Commission, it now moves to the Zoning Committee for further review.

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Phase One (Target Completion: 2028)

  • 6,000-seat music hall: A premier venue for concerts and cultural events.
  • Elevated Park: 25 acres of green space for recreation and community gatherings.
  • Improved infrastructure: Enhanced walkability, lighting, bike lanes, and parking.
  • Hotels and retail: Designed to boost commerce and create jobs.

The project is expected to generate 32,000 construction jobs, with long-term employment to follow. “The project is not an entertainment district,” said United Center CEO Terry Savarise. “It doesn’t come with gates or admission fees to walk on the campus. The 1901 Project is a neighborhood. It is one with resources, with energy, with vibrancy, and with opportunity.”

Future phases will introduce a mix of affordable, market-rate, and luxury housing, along with transportation upgrades, including potential CTA enhancements. Privately funded, developers may seek city support for public infrastructure improvements.

With groundbreaking set for this summer, the 1901 Project promises to reshape the Near West Side into a thriving, connected community.

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Pickleball Kingdom Expands to Dayton Area with 36,000-Square-Foot Indoor Facility

Pickleball Kingdom, the world’s largest indoor pickleball organization, is set to inaugurate its first Dayton-area facility in Centerville, Florida, this spring. The 36,000-square-foot complex will house 13 professional-grade indoor courts, a mezzanine viewing area, a pro shop, a snack bar, and locker rooms equipped with showers. The facility aims to serve as a recreational hub and community space for Centerville and the surrounding region.

The Centerville location will offer professional coaching and clinics for all skill levels, youth programs, competitive leagues and tournaments, and host community and corporate events. First-time visitors can participate in “Pickleball 101,” a complimentary introductory class. While the facility operates on a membership basis, it also provides open-play hours accessible to the public.

Sheehan Lake, president of Pickleball x Equity, the area representative for Pickleball Kingdom, revealed plans to establish 150 locations within their territory, including Ohio, with upcoming sites in Mason and Columbus. Construction of the Centerville facility commenced in mid-January, managed by Skyward Construction, and is anticipated to open in April.

Since its inception in Arizona in 2022, Pickleball Kingdom has expanded rapidly, awarding nearly 400 franchise clubs. Currently, the organization operates facilities in Arizona, Texas, Wisconsin, and Tennessee.

Rochester’s $65M Sports Complex Moves Forward Amid Funding and Design Debates

Rochester is moving forward with its $65 million regional sports complex, but debate lingers over what it will include and how soon it will be completed. The City Council approved a $5 million purchase of 160 acres along 45th Street SE, near hotels and entertainment venues, as the site for the project.

Officials propose a phased approach, prioritizing outdoor amenities like eight convertible baseball/softball fields, trails, and 800 parking spaces, while securing additional funding for indoor facilities. The plan aims to attract regional tournaments to help offset costs, but residents and council members argue voters expected indoor courts and recreation from the start.

Mayor Kim Norton warned delaying indoor features could hurt future legislative funding, while community advocates stressed the need for year-round, safe spaces for youth since the YMCA closure in 2022.

The complex will span 90 acres, with remaining land reserved for expansion. Rising costs have sparked concern, with Council Member Norman Wahl remarking, “I’m shocked at how little $65 million can buy in our day.”

With land secured, final designs are still in development, as Rochester works to balance budget constraints with community expectations.

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