University of Illinois Pivots from Plans at The 78

The University of Illinois is withdrawing its plans to build a $285 million Discovery Partners Institute (DPI) teaching facility on the proposed site of The 78.

Instead, it wants to split the project in two, with a presence at the new quantum technology campus on the Far South Side at the former U.S. Steel plant and classroom and office space downtown, reported Crain’s. U of I wants to focus on the momentum in quantum computing, such as the recently announced Illinois Quantum & Microelectronics Park.

The sudden decision leaves Related Midwest’s massive development without an anchor tenant. The DPI building was set to be the cornerstone and first building in Chicago’s The 78-development, a new neighborhood along the Chicago River with plans to include new academic, coworking and living spaces as well as collaborative spaces to host events. 

“While we were disappointed to learn of DPI’s decision to exit The 78, its departure opens up opportunities for new partnerships and site configurations, including the current DPI parcel, that were not possible under the previous plan,” said a Related Midwest spokesperson. “We are actively exploring the co-location of dual stadiums for the Chicago White Sox and Chicago Fire, two organizations whose presence at The 78 would align with our vision of creating Chicago’s next great neighborhood.”