Exciting news for our Southside community! The former U.S. Steel South Works site, which has been vacant for over 30 years, will soon be buzzing with innovation. The Illinois Quantum & Microelectronics Park (IQMP) is set to rise on this historic site, bringing cutting-edge technology and economic growth to our neighborhood.
This groundbreaking public-private partnership, co-developed by Related Midwest and CRG, marks the first phase of a visionary 400-acre master plan. Governor J.B. Pritzker shared his enthusiasm at a press conference, stating:
“Right here beneath our feet will be a catalyst for a potential revolution in science and technology and the betterment of life for all humankind.”
The state has committed a whopping $500 million from the fiscal year 2025 budget to this transformative project, aiming to solidify Illinois as a global leader in quantum technology. PsiQuantum, a California-based tech company, has also been offered $200 million in incentives for their minimum $1 billion investment.
Located off 87th Street and S. DuSable Lake Shore Drive, the new Quantum Computing Campus will be the heart of this development. Mayor Brandon Johnson expressed his excitement, saying, “With this multibillion-dollar investment from PsiQuantum, quantum computing will be the premiere industry of Chicago’s future.”
PsiQuantum will be the main tenant, building and operating the first full-scale, fault-tolerant quantum computer in the United States. This revolutionary technology promises to accelerate the development of life-saving drugs, create new materials, and offer green energy solutions.
The project is expected to create up to 150 jobs within five years, with a facility spanning approximately 300,000 square feet. But the impact doesn’t stop there. Officials envision vast and transformative applications in healthcare, energy, transportation, and beyond. This initiative is not just about technological advancements; it’s about uplifting communities and ensuring equitable growth.
The IQMP is a collaborative effort involving the state, city, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, University of Chicago, and national research agencies like the U.S. Department of Defense. Intersect Illinois Chairman John Atkinson emphasized, “It’s also about equity and building up communities that have been left behind.”
While construction hasn’t started yet, organizers are eager to begin and are working on plans and partnerships to get things moving. Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting development, which promises to bring incredible opportunities and a bright future to our Southside.
Amer Goosby
