Chicago: Mayor Brandon Johnson, Community Leaders Cut Ribbon on Grand Boulevard Office Project the Estate Escape

CHICAGO ~ Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson, Alderman Pat Dowell (3rd), and Department of Planning and Development (DPD) Commissioner Ciere Boatright gathered with community leaders and project partners today to celebrate the ribbon cutting of a newly rehabilitated professional office building in the Grand Boulevard community. The building, located at 4517 S. State St., has been transformed into a modern workspace with the support of the city.

The $327,000 rehabilitation project, known as The Estate Escape and led by Steps Inc., has revitalized a century-old building with all new building systems, energy-efficient materials, employee workspaces, and a conference room that will be available for community meetings. This investment not only modernizes the building but also contributes to the continued revitalization of the State Street corridor.

Mayor Johnson emphasized the importance of supporting neighborhood businesses in his statement at the ribbon cutting ceremony. "When we support neighborhood businesses, we invest in the people, ideas, and opportunities that keep our communities strong," he said. "The Estate Escape represents what is possible when we revitalize our neighborhoods and empower local entrepreneurs to build a stronger, more equitable Chicago."

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The project received $245,625 in grant assistance through DPD's Community Development Grant program. Commissioner Boatright highlighted how this investment preserves the historic building while also contributing to its revival on State Street. "This building is a survivor," she said. "It has endured decades of disinvestment and demolitions in its surrounding area. This investment ensures it remains at the forefront of State Street's revival."

The Estate Escape was developed by Steps Inc. owner Nicole Wheatly as the home for her professional consulting practice specializing in real estate and business management. The two-story office is expected to support a staff of five people and includes a conference room that will be available for community meetings.

The building's previous owners lived on the second floor for over 50 years while operating a mechanic's shop on the ground floor. This rehabilitation not only invests in the future of the building but also contributes to the continued revitalization of the surrounding corridor.

Since Mayor Johnson took office in 2023, over 200 South Side business projects have been approved for $335 million in grant assistance. The total project costs for these projects are estimated at $1.7 billion. More information about DPD grant opportunities can be found at Chicago.gov/DPDGrants.

The ribbon cutting ceremony for The Estate Escape marks another successful project in the city's efforts to support local businesses and revitalize neighborhoods. With continued investments and partnerships, Chicago is working towards a stronger and more equitable future for all its communities.

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